Graduate Program in Health Sciences hosts international exchange student
In April 2025, the Graduate Program in Health Sciences at Universidade São Francisco (USF) welcomed medical student Anna Tzima from the Democritus University of Thrace, Greece, for a four-week internship at the Microbiology Laboratory. The activity was carried out under the IFMSA Research Exchange Program, supervised by Prof. Dr. Michelle Darrieux, and focused on the project “Production of recombinant vaccines against Klebsiella pneumoniae.”
During the exchange period, Anna deepened her theoretical knowledge about Klebsiella pneumoniae — a highly antimicrobial-resistant bacterium classified by the World Health Organization as a top research priority — and took part in the first phase of the cloning process of fimbriae genes, structures associated with the pathogenicity of the bacterium and potential targets for vaccine development.
The exchange, made possible through a partnership with the International Federation of Medical Students’ Associations – Brazil (IFMSA-Brazil) and supported by the International Relations Office (NRI), had the active involvement of the Graduate Program in Health Sciences at every stage. From the planning and reception of the student to her integration into the research environment and close supervision of laboratory activities, the program demonstrated its commitment to internationalization and the training of highly qualified professionals. Anna’s presence also fostered scientific exchange between USF researchers and students, strengthening technical competencies and the sharing of knowledge on biotechnology and microbiology methodologies applied to health.
Student’s testimonial
"I am very happy for my participation in this exchange program in Brazil and I can say that it is definitely one of the best experiences I have ever had. My first impression of Brazil was how warm, friendly and helpful the Brazilian people are — and for sure it was also my last one. I feel really lucky that I was a part of the lab, even if it was for this short period of time. It is really nice to feel like home wherever you are, and for sure the kindness of everyone made me feel that I was part of it. The environment of the university was really cozy, and the people I met from the university and the IFMSA coordinators were truly welcoming and friendly. Everyone in the lab was so kind and helpful, always willing to show me methods and techniques to help me with my project or to just show me something new. I am really thankful to my tutor for the help and guidance, not only in the lab work, but in everything I needed. But the best part during my stay in Brazil was the wonderful time and connection I had with everyone I met. Now, two months after my return, I still cannot believe the whole experience. All the good energy I received from my time in a place so far from my country made it feel like a dream. Definitely, the memories of the wonderful people I met and the beautiful places I visited will be forever in my heart. Saudade."
