Tallya Maciel ’23 is researching ways to fight cancer in Boston

Tallya Maciel ’23, who majored in biology with minors in chemistry and neuroscience, is now a research technician at the Dana Farber Institute of Cancer in Boston. She is working alongside Dr. Annamaria Gulla – an accomplished doctor specializing in cancer treatment – to further understand treatment options for various stages of multiple myeloma.

While enrolled at Salve Regina, Maciel worked at Eye Care for Rhode Island as a medical technician. She discovered two passions while working at the clinic: taking care of those in need and discovering new methods to prevent diseases.

As she looks back on her time at the University, Maciel is grateful for the mentorship of Dr. Belinda Barbagallo, assistant professor in the Department of Biology and Biomedical Sciences. “Dr. Barbagallo has become more than just my mentor and professor,” she said. “She has become someone I trust wholeheartedly, and I have come to see her as a role model and friend.”

Maciel recounts moments where she felt lost and insecure in what she needed to do, but Barbagallo was always there to offer her support and guidance. She credits Barbagallo with the personal growth she experienced at Salve Regina. Maciel also credits her summer research in 2021 as being the most memorable part of her academic career.

“The experience was so wonderful that I founded an association right after for future student researchers to have a similar opportunity throughout the entire school year,” she said. The Association of Student Researchers was named Salve Regina’s student organization of the year in 2021.

Maciel is overjoyed that she could take advantage of all the opportunities that Salve Regina gave her during her four years. She found that the proximity to the beach was a privilege, as well as events such as SRyou Student Exposition.

“I have always enjoyed how students can do research and showcase their talent on such a special day like SRyou Student Exposition,” she said. “Very few institutions do such a thing, and it’s a highlight of Salve.”

As she leaves Salve Regina behind, Maciel will keep with her the memories and experience that she gained in her accomplished four years. She is excited to bring her research beyond the Salve Regina campus and begin saving lives around the world.

Written by student writer Caitlyn Rubino ’25