Go Mini Scientific Challenge

Congratulations Dr. Mattia Prosperi on winning Illumina, Inc.'s #GoMiniGrant!

Dr. Prosperi will work with UF Emerging Pathogens Institute's Dr. Volker Mai to study infectious disease in Florida -- specifically vector-borne diseases such as Zika, chikungunya, and dengue. These diseases are regularly found in neighboring countries and threaten Florida due to the state's mild climate.

As the first place winner, Dr. Prosperi will receive Illumina's new "MiniSeq" -- a DNA sequencer -- and a brand new Mini Cooper. The Mini Cooper will be integrated into the UF College of Public Health and Health Professions' HealthStreet program, which plans to help reduce transportation barriers in access to health care for Floridians, along with many other services. Dr. Mai and Dr. Prosperi will analyze the insects that hit the car, using the MiniSeq to sequence the DNA of the vector-borne pathogens harbored by the insects.

Dr. Prosperi's proposal won first place out of over 1000 submitted abstracts. Once again, congratulations!