Krystal Maya Maldonado

Writer, Translator (Spanish)

I’m originally from Mexico, but now I work as a postdoc at Johns Hopkins University. I’m passionate about studying the insect immune system and how hosts interact with microbes. During my PhD, I delved into understanding how mosquitoes get sick and how they “remember” infections from the malaria parasite. Right now, I’m super excited about exploring how gut bacteria impact the immune system using fruit flies. I love sharing knowledge with my community. Outside the lab, I’m all about trying new foods, immersing myself in different cultures, and visiting museums to snap cool pictures!

My articles

• Microbial collectibles from mosquitos April 11, 2025
• A gut shield for bumblebees March 14, 2025
• Christmas lights: Fluorescent proteins in bacteria.  December 6, 2024
• “Royal microbes”, the court of the queen bee. September 23, 2024