LASER Talks Rio de Janeiro: Communication in Chagas: Social Technology and International Mobility

A discussion on health communication and social innovation in addressing Chagas disease, with a focus on international collaboration.

Chaired/Moderated by: Rita Rocha (LITEB/IOC/Fiocruz and LBI/IOC/Fiocruz) Roberto Ferreira (LBI/IOC/Fiocruz)

EVENT INFO

When: April 14, 2026 (Tuesday), 6:00 PM (BRT)

Where: Online – broadcast via the Science, Art and Citizenship Network

Access Info: https://www.youtube.com/@RedeCienciaArteCidadania

LASER Talks Rio de Janeiro will host an internationally recognized Ecuadorian researcher known for his contributions to the study of tropical infectious diseases, particularly Chagas disease. This session will explore communication as a form of social technology in addressing the disease, connecting scientific practices, local knowledge, and strategies of international mobility. With a duration of one hour, the event will be held online through the Science, Art and Citizenship Network, fostering an interdisciplinary exchange among researchers and institutions from Brazil and abroad. The event also celebrates investments in Chagas disease research through the Selenium Project, highlighting recent advances and future perspectives. The discussion will address field experiences, scientific cooperation, and communication strategies in global health, with an emphasis on social innovation and community engagement.

SPEAKERS BIOS  

Mario Grijalva
Dr. Grijalva’s research focuses on understanding and controlling infectious diseases affecting vulnerable communities in Latin America and Appalachian Ohio. His lab integrates molecular epidemiology, field ecology, diagnostics development, and health communication to improve detection and prevention of Chagas disease, tick-borne infections, and other neglected conditions.

Ronilson Freitas (UEPA)
Permanent faculty member of the Graduate Program in Education and Science Teaching in the Amazon (PPGEECA/UEPA). Works in Chemistry Education and Science Education, with a focus on innovative methodologies that enhance teaching and learning processes in these fields. Her research involves the development of educational products and processes aimed at science communication and public engagement with science.

Priscyla Luz (UEPA)
Researcher in the Science, Technology, Environment and Non-formal Education research group. She has experience in teaching, research, and outreach in the fields of Science and Biology Education, teaching methodologies in Science and Biology, biodiversity, and socio-environmental education. She currently coordinates the Graduate Program in Education and Science Teaching in the Amazon. 

SPONSORS:

Fiocruz (IOC – LITEB and LBI) The Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz) is one of the leading health science and technology institutions in Latin America. The Oswaldo Cruz Institute (IOC), through its laboratories, conducts research on infectious diseases, public health, and scientific innovation.

UEPA (State University of Pará) The State University of Pará is dedicated to higher education and research aligned with regional needs, with a strong focus on health research, particularly in the Amazon region.

The Leonardo/ISAST LASERs are a program of international gatherings that bring artists, scientists, humanists and technologists together for informal presentations, performances and conversations with the wider public. The mission of the LASERs is to encourage contribution to the cultural environment of a region by fostering interdisciplinary dialogue and opportunities for community building to over 60 cities around the world. To learn more about how our LASER Hosts and to visit a LASER near you please visit our website. @lasertalks