Dr. Sandra Ramirez-Arcos completed her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in microbiology in her native Colombia and then conducted PhD studies in Biological Sciences in Spain. From 1998 to 2002, Dr. Ramirez did her post-doctoral training and worked as a research associate at the University of Ottawa. Since 2003, she has worked at Canadian Blood Services where she currently holds a Senior Scientist position. Dr Ramirez is also an Adjunct Professor at the University of Ottawa.  Since 2016, Dr. Ramirez has been a co-chair of the ISBT Transfusion-Transmitted Infectious Diseases Working Party – Bacteria Subgroup. Dr. Ramirez has built a strong team with expertise on bloodborne bacteria with a focus on understanding bacterial growth dynamics, with interests in bacterial biofilm formation and molecular modulation during blood component storage. Her laboratory also oversees the development, validation and implementation of protocols and processes aiming at enhancing blood component safety at Canadian Blood Services. Current research interests in the Ramirez lab are focused on optimization of assays for the detection of tickborne bacteria and other emerging pathogens in whole blood and blood components. The Ramirez’ group is also working on providing evidence-based data to improve blood donation policies regarding syphilis testing for blood donors.