Bruna Silvestroni, Science Laboratory Coordinator
A tiny bite, a big reaction

Laura Martinez, Staff Writer


It began with a bite.

When Science Laboratory Coordinator Bruna Silvestroni was four years old, an intense allergic reaction to an ant bite sent her rushing to the hospital. As she received treatment, she wondered: What caused the swelling? Why did her body respond this way? What medications were the doctors using to treat her? How did they work? 

"I was intrigued by the fact that such a tiny creature could cause so much harm," she said. 

These seemingly simple questions fueled a lifelong quest to understand the complexity of the human body and the natural world around her. That newly found curiosity led to a career in science.

By high school, Bruna had settled on biology. She went on to earn her bachelor's degree and teaching licensure in biological sciences from USP. Fascinated by botany and plant biochemistry, she pursued a master's degree at IB – USP's Phytochemistry Laboratory. 

Driven by a desire to share her expertise, Bruna authored educational book chapters and received her introduction to Graded, working on campus as a lab technician and teaching assistant. Her quest for international experience then took her to Canada, where she taught college-level biology labs.


Now, back in Brazil, Bruna has earned a second teaching licensure, this time in chemistry, and once again shares her love for science with the Graded community. In the lab, she encourages students to look for answers through science—just as she had after being bitten by that ant years before.

"Science helps me understand myself and the world around me instead of just accepting everything as it is," she said. "It expands our minds, opens us up to see the beauty of the universe, and teaches us that we are all connected, from every organism on the planet to the dust of the stars!"

Bruna on the importance of studying science:

Our understanding of the universe is the direct outcome of scientific research and experiments. This knowledge has played a pivotal role in shaping our modern world, enabling us to develop new technologies, resolve practical problems, and make informed decisions to enhance the quality of our lives.

 


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