Her Story
About Carolina
Carolina L Zilli Vieira serves as a research associate and instructor. Originally a dentist, she graduated from Sao Paulo State University in Brazil in 2002 and later earned a PhD in cardiology in Brazil after developing an interest in investigating connections between cardiovascular disease and dental infections. She has been at Harvard since 2015 where she pursues research in environmental health including cosmic irradiation solar activity oscillations and galactic cosmic rays and their effects on human health and lifespan. She remains involved in dentistry guidelines through the Brazilian Cardiology Society and is a member of the American Society of Women in Dentistry. Her honors include recognition as a top scientist and top doctor by Who's Who in America.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Carolina
01What do you attribute your success to?
I believe in karma. Good karmas help. If you have good karma, it'll be helpful, so planting good always is helpful throughout our lives. Building a meaningful life is in small things that not necessarily everyone is watching. I am faithful in God, so faith in God is essential. Try to always do our best in small things to big things.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Don't give up your dreams. Even so, it looks like don't look at the difficulties. Look at what you can contribute to improve science and the planet and human life. Don't believe others. Sometimes people don't help us to get too much engagement. Reduce the use of technology. It disturbs our creativity, so be creative, read a lot, study hard, and don't give up your dreams.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Every path can be different. To really grow in our field sometimes takes time and it's not something first. It can sometimes generate some frustrations. The system sometimes doesn't help us to grow. Sometimes you cannot apply for specific grants because of your position. The system is very bureaucratic and slow. When you are too delicate sometimes can be a challenge because people like you more when you are more aggressive.
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