My Bio

I was born in Mexico City, one of the largest cities in the world, situated 7,300 feet above sea level. I grew up in this vibrant metropolis, often called the Aztec city, and attended private Catholic schools from kindergarten through 12th grade. I enjoyed walking, playing basketball, and football during my childhood. I feel fortunate to have been cared for by my grandparents while growing up.

I dreamed of living in the United States since I was a child and have always been motivated to improve myself. I began learning English in elementary school and had the opportunity to live with a Canadian family in Ottawa, Ontario, for five weeks during the summer of 1976. While there, I got to enjoy some Olympic events in both Ottawa and Montreal. It was an incredible experience and a highlight of my teenage years.

I remember running track during high school, competing in a few races. I especially enjoyed the 400 and 800 meters—not too fast, not too long. I wish I had kept track of how fast I was back then. I also recall spending time at a nearby track, running laps during the summer and on weekends.

I spent a few summers in the southern United States, living with American families in places like Grand Bay, Alabama. Those experiences deepened my love for living in another country and immersing myself in different cultures.

I earned my degree in chemical engineering from Universidad La Salle in Mexico City and later pursued graduate studies at UNAM, specializing in organic chemistry. My interest in the field was strongly influenced by my uncle and aunt, both of whom studied chemistry at UNAM.

I went on to complete a PhD in organic chemistry at Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, Virginia. Living in Blacksburg from 1988 to 1992 was an incredible experience. I loved both the university and the town, which quickly became a special place in my life.

Lived in Southwest England for 18 months. Worked as a postdoctoral fellow at Exeter University. Played squash at that time.

Lived in Charlottesville, VA for 18 months before coming to Iowa. Worked as a postdoc at the University of Virginia. At that time I was attending Trinity Church and that is where I met this beautiful girl, Karen. She told me she was making a trip to Venezuela, so I offered her to teach her some Spanish. She was a teacher and she liked to run. She had a beautiful apartment and she kept her car very clean. I asked her if she wanted to play squash or racquetball with me and we also went running together many times.
Karen and I married in Charlottesville, VA, on June 24, 1995. One month after I started working at The University of Iowa.

Came to The University of Iowa in 1995. I am a professor of Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry. I teach classes to pharmacy students and also in the graduate program. I direct the work of graduate students and have a very productive research laboratory.

I adopted my son in 2005 from Bulgaria, and my daughter three years later from China. I feel privileged to have the opportunity to raise these two smart and talented kids. My goal as a parent is to teach and challenge my children to be independent, good citizens, and enjoy life.