Postdoctoral Scholars
Josiane F. Silva, PhD. I completed a Bachelor’s in Biology in Brazil, as well as my PhD from the Federal University of Minas Gerais. After my PhD, I moved to the University of Sao Paulo for Postdoctoral training. I then joined the Pires laboratory in 2021, and have been here since. I have been fascinated by the mechanisms regulating vascular function since the beginning of my research training, particularly how these mechanisms are changed in disease conditions. I am excited to be a member of Dr. Pires team, which provides me the opportunity to grow as a neurovascular physiologist while working with great colleagues in a collaborative workplace. In my free time I like to play with my cute dog and try to understand American Football.
Graduate Students
Stephenie Thai. Born and raised in Arizona, I moved from Gilbert to Tucson to attend the University of Arizona. During my undergraduate years, I was able to supplement my lecture and textbook studies in the Pires Laboratory where I was exposed to the fundamentals of research. Quickly, I grew a strong passion for physiology and after earning my Bachelor’s of Science degree in Physiology with a minor in Biochemistry and Sports Nutrition, I chose to continue my education. Currently, I am a Master’s student in the Physiological Sciences Graduate Interdisciplinary Program at the University of Arizona studying vascular changes associated with Alzheimer’s Disease in the Pires Laboratory. I am a coffee enthusiast and love trying new coffee shops in my free time. I also enjoy spending time with friends & family, dancing, exercising, and traveling.
Matthew Gonzales. I am currently a graduate student pursuing a Master of Science in Physiological Sciences. I was raised in Southeastern Arizona where I completed my first two years of higher education at Eastern Arizona College. I then transferred to the University of Arizona where I earned my Bachelor of Science degree in Physiology and Medical Sciences with a minor in Biochemistry in 2021. From the beginning of pursuing my undergraduate degree the vastness of Physiology has always intrigued me, with understanding the way that our body systems change as we age being the area, I find most interesting. With my free time, I enjoy being present with my friends and family, spending time outdoors, and exercising.