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Antonio Di Maio
Venezuelan biochemist
He left Venezuela 23 years ago and has studied and taught molecular science, encouraging young Latin and Afro-American students to follow in his footsteps
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Di Maio graduated as a chemist from the Central University of Venezuela. He is concerned that the number of scientists worldwide is so low (Photo: Handout)
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AURA CUMARE
EL UNIVERSAL
 "All people do not respond equally, so I study the genes determining inflammatory response to trauma and the environmental factors ailing the patient to prevent risks and complications", explains Di Maio from the peaceful confines of his lab. A chemist graduated from Universidad Central de Venezuela, he is currently fostering a program aimed at increasing ethnic presence in the world of science. "I am interested in seeing minorities of Latin or Afro-American origins enrolled in universities". Concerned that the total number of scientists in the world is at a low, he created, along with other colleagues, a program to attract students to labs, by offering financial assistance, through the Federal Government, for doctorate programs in the area of research. Can Venezuelans living in the United States join the program? No, it is only for US citizens. Venezuelans generally face two issues: First, they must compete with other foreign students; and second, Venezuelan universities traditionally give students low grades under the false notion that they are being academically stricter. This practice hinders the possibilities of young students when compared with other foreign students with higher grades. As a member of the Pan American Trauma Association, what are your duties? I encourage surgeons to do research. The association holds its annual convention in a different country each year. In September 2009, it will take place in Caracas. How often do you visit Venezuela? Once every two years, but I keep in touch with friends and relatives. How did you feel when you initially left Venezuela? At first, things are difficult, but after a few years, you get used to it. People generally adapt and embrace the customs of the country where they live, without discarding their culture. I still prepare hallacas for Christmas, but I eat turkey anyway. Is there anything you miss? The people and the beaches, which are the most beautiful in the world. I also miss typical food like hallacas and arepas. They just do not taste the same here. What are the differences between the Venezuelan and US societies? Both communities are quite different. In North America everything is well structured and properly organized. Latin America is lacking in this department. What do hear people in the United States say about Venezuela? The political issue is always in the news. In the past, when I told people that I was from Venezuela, I got many blank stares. Now, they immediately start talking about politics. Are you planning to return? I do not know yet; I have still got some work to do. Translated by Félix Rojas |
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