Xandra M. Pena Díaz is an undergraduate researcher in Biology, Neuroscience, and Human Development at the University of Puerto Rico at Cayey and a research assistant in the laboratory of Dr. Ricardo Chiesa, where she works on neuroproteomic profiling and behavioral assays in Drosophila melanogaster to investigate the anxiolytic potential of marine natural products. Her academic training integrates molecular biology, neuroscience, and behavioral science, and her work experience includes experimental design, protein extraction, quantitative proteomics, and analysis of anxiety-like phenotypes in in-vivo models. In addition to her research activities, she serves in leadership roles within the Beta Beta Beta (TriBeta) National Biological Honor Society and Science in Braille, promoting multidisciplinary collaboration, scientific outreach, and inclusive STEM education.