Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the most pressing challenges of our time, and Corina and Daniel are leveraging technology to raise awareness and contribute to global solutions. Corina, a microbiologist at the Chemistry Institute of UNAM in Mexico, has spent time studying bacteria and their effects on human health. Her journey began during her PhD, where she focused on beneficial bacteria. Over time, her interest shifted toward tackling harmful bacteria, particularly those contributing to AMR. Today, Corina manages a lab dedicated to finding new antibiotics through genomics, and she has seen early success in discovering promising candidates.
“AMR is one of the most important health issues worldwide, comparable to cancer, we need to be dedicated in providing a solution to it” – Corina
However, Corina recognizes that research alone won’t solve the AMR crisis— Public awareness, education, and engagement are equally of importance in combating AMR. To this effect, Corina has partnered with Daniel, a physicist with a background in studying the interaction of matter with a relatively fundamental research geared to providing better understanding to making photocatalysts. His passion for making an impact led him to join forces with Corina.
Together, in collaboration with PAR Foundation, they are developing an innovative project that leverages virtual reality (VR) and artificial intelligence (AI) to bring the concept of AMR to a broader audience. Their VR model will be designed to educate the public about the dangers of antibiotic resistance in a way that is both engaging and accessible. With the rise of digital technologies, Corina and Daniel believe VR offers a powerful platform to convey the urgency of the AMR crisis, particularly to younger generations who are more likely to engage with digital tools.
Their virtual reality model will take users on an interactive journey through the world of bacteria and antibiotics, showing how resistance develops and what can be done to combat it. By visualizing these complex processes in a relatable way, Corina and Daniel hope to foster a deeper understanding of AMR among the general public. The use of VR also allows for a more personalized learning experience, where users can explore different scenarios and see firsthand the consequences of antibiotic misuse and the importance of responsible use.
But the project goes beyond public awareness. Corina and Daniel also envision their VR model as a valuable tool for medical professionals. By incorporating the latest research and developments in the field of AMR, their VR platform can serve as a resource for healthcare providers looking to stay up-to-date.
“This project will bring together science, technology, and public health in an innovative and impactful way” – Daniel
One of the most exciting aspects of the project is its potential for scalability. Corina and Daniel plan to introduce the VR model into schools, both in Mexico and abroad, and to integrate it into educational programs that focus on global health. By doing so, they hope to inspire the next generation to take up the fight against AMR. Additionally, the model could be showcased at conferences, museums, and public events as a teaching tool, helping to spread awareness on a global scale.
For Corina and Daniel, this project represents a convergence of science, technology, and public health advocacy. While Corina’s research into new antibiotics is vital to finding new ways to combat resistant bacteria, the public needs to understand the scope of the problem and their role in solving it. With Daniel’s background in physics and interest in applied science, the two have found a unique way to address both awareness and education. Their use of virtual reality and AI could be a game-changer in how we engage people on the topic of AMR, making it accessible and actionable for diverse audiences.