Alma Poceros Coba, PhD
Alma Coba, PhD, is a genetics and cancer researcher whose career reflects a deep commitment to interdisciplinary science, community engagement, and advancing public health through research. Originally from Mexico, she earned her bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biology, and pharmacology from Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, where she developed a strong scientific foundation spanning laboratory research, pharmacology, and biomedical sciences. Following her undergraduate studies, Alma worked in both governmental and industrial organizations in Mexico, including leadership roles focused on community development and pharmaceutical quality control. These experiences strengthened her skills in management, collaboration, and public service while reinforcing her passion for science-driven solutions that improve lives and communities.
Ten years ago, Alma relocated to the United States with her family and later pursued doctoral studies at University of California, Davis. In 2019, she was awarded a prestigious UC–Mexico doctoral fellowship, a collaborative initiative between the University of California system and Mexico that supported her PhD research in biomedical genomics and cancer. During her time at UC Davis, Alma focused on genetics, cancer biology, and interdisciplinary biomedical research, combining scientific inquiry with a commitment to mentorship and community-building. She also led a student organization dedicated to supporting international students, organizing academic symposiums, bioinformatics trainings, and professional development events that fostered collaboration and inclusion within the scientific community. Through these efforts, she further developed her leadership, organizational, and advocacy skills while helping create opportunities for emerging researchers from diverse backgrounds.
Having recently completed her PhD in Genetics, Alma is now transitioning into the next phase of her career while continuing her involvement in nonprofit and community-focused initiatives. Her work is guided by values of integrity, honesty, resilience, kindness, and service—principles she credits to her family and upbringing. As the first woman in her family to pursue a scientific career, she hopes her journey will inspire other women and underrepresented students to pursue careers in science and research with confidence. Passionate about cancer research, environmental health, and scientific collaboration, Alma remains committed to advancing biomedical discovery while building supportive communities that encourage future generations of scientists to thrive.
• Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry
• Biology
• And Pharmacology from Mexico
• PhD in Genetics from University of California
• Davis
• UC Mexico Doctoral Fellowship
• UC Mexico Doctoral Fellowship
• Racing for Sustainability
• Racing for Sustainability
• Big Sur Marathon Fundraising
• Student Organization Leadership for International Students at UC Davis
What do you attribute your success to?
I think what brings me to this point of my life are the core values that my parents raised me with. Core values were very important. I grew up in a family with a lot of core values like kindness, love, and honesty, and that gave me a lot of skills to be resilient. I think resilience is one of my words that comes to my mind. I am the first woman in my family to go to a scientific career. I am very proud of that. I am the first woman in my whole family, from both parents, to be a scientist and to earn a PhD in science. These values of kindness, love, honesty, and resilience that my parents instilled in me have been the foundation of my success and have carried me through every challenge I've faced in my academic and professional journey.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The greatest influence in my life has been my father, who was truly one of the kindest people I have ever known. He came from a very modest background, worked as a farmer, and entered military service at a young age. Although he never had the opportunity to receive a formal education, he taught himself how to read and became an avid reader throughout his life. His resilience, humility, discipline, and commitment to continuous learning left a profound impact on me and shaped many of the values I carry today. He passed away from cancer about four years ago, but his example continues to guide both my personal and professional journey.
During my academic career, I also found inspiration in a young professor at the University of California, Davis during my early coursework. While she was not formally my mentor, her passion for science, leadership within the laboratory environment, and ability to create an engaging and collaborative atmosphere deeply influenced me. She demonstrated that scientific work can be rigorous while still fostering curiosity, teamwork, and humanity. I also admired the balance she maintained between research, mentorship, and her personal interests, including running, which created a meaningful connection for me.
Together, these influences shaped my perspective on leadership, education, and perseverance. My father taught me the importance of resilience and self education, while my professor showed me the power of intellectual curiosity and collaborative leadership. Their examples continue to inspire how I approach challenges, learning, and personal growth throughout every stage of my career.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I will say that, be yourself, and be honest. And be kind to people around you, because that's what you are, no matter what stage of your career you're in. I think that would be a good advice: be you, be kind, and be honest. These values should remain constant throughout your journey, regardless of where you are in your career or what challenges you face. Authenticity, honesty, and kindness are the qualities that will sustain you and help you build meaningful relationships and lasting success in any field.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the greatest opportunities in my field right now is the growing emphasis on collaboration, innovation, and meaningful community impact. As my career continues to evolve, I am excited to contribute to research and professional environments that encourage curiosity, leadership, and interdisciplinary teamwork. Outside of work, I find inspiration through marathon running, which has taught me resilience, discipline, and balance, qualities that continue to shape both my personal and professional growth. I am also motivated by connecting with accomplished and inspiring women who lead with integrity, compassion, and purpose. Looking ahead, I hope to encourage others by demonstrating that success is built through perseverance, adaptability, and a willingness to continue learning and evolving throughout every stage of life and career.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I think integrity is my strong value. I appreciate a lot the integrity in each human being. Honesty is also extremely important to me, as is community. Outside of my career, I find balance and renewal in an active, outdoor lifestyle. I enjoy hiking, biking, and especially running, which has become one of my greatest personal passions. I have completed five or six marathons. My most recent one was a little bit painful because I was recovering from my knee, but it was definitely rewarding. The feeling that we feel when we run along the Pacific Ocean was amazing. I also enjoy being with my family. I have a teenager son, and me and my husband and my dog, we love to go for a hike on the weekends and spend a lot of time within nature. Something that gives me a lot of energy is going to the mountains and being there. In contact with nature is something that gives me a lot of joy. These values of integrity, honesty, and community, combined with my love for family and the outdoors, are what guide me in both my work and personal life.