Diana Bautista studies the molecular & cellular mechanisms of itch, pain & inflammation. She will discuss recent efforts to understand how neurons are modulated by signals from immune cells under disease conditions & how neurons influence the immune system and contribute to chronic itch, pain & airway inflammation. In addition to her passion for science, she is committed to increasing equity and inclusion in science. As a women of color & first in her family to attend college, she will share her non-traditional path & her perspectives on promoting cultural change in academia.