Maria Andreina Pacheco

Maria Andreina Pacheco is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biology at Temple University's College of Science and Technology. Her research examines evolutionary genomics of malaria parasites across vertebrate hosts, with a focus on phylogenetic patterns, mitochondrial genome evolution, and host-switching mechanisms in haemosporidian parasites.

Her work applies molecular clock methods to study parasite radiation in lizards, birds, and mammals, providing evolutionary frameworks for vaccine development. She coordinates the Next-Generation Sequencing laboratory at iGEM, supporting genomic analyses for collaborative projects.

Recent publications emphasize Plasmodium diversification, novel pathogen discovery, and diagnostic challenges in malaria epidemiology. Articles predominantly explore parasite genomics, host range expansion, and ecological adaptations, with consistent focus on evolutionary mechanisms in tropical disease systems.