Natalia Pasternak Taschner

Natalia Pasternak IQC 2019-1 (cropped)

Natalia Pasternak Taschner is a Brazilian microbiologist, science communicator, and researcher known for her significant contributions to the public understanding of science in Brazil. She has been a vocal advocate for scientific literacy and evidence-based policies, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil. Pasternak has worked extensively to debunk pseudoscience and misinformation related to health and science, making her a prominent figure in the Brazilian scientific community.

Early Life and Education

Natalia Pasternak Taschner was born in São Paulo, Brazil. She pursued her undergraduate studies in Biological Sciences at the University of São Paulo (USP), where she also completed her master's and Ph.D. degrees in Microbiology. Her research during this period focused on bacterial genetics and the development of antibiotic resistance.

Career

Following her academic training, Pasternak dedicated herself to science communication, aiming to bridge the gap between the scientific community and the general public. She has held positions as a researcher and professor at various institutions, contributing to both scientific research and education.

In addition to her academic roles, Pasternak is the founder of the Instituto Questão de Ciência (IQC), a Brazilian non-profit organization dedicated to promoting scientific literacy and evidence-based public policies. As president of the IQC, she has led numerous initiatives to combat misinformation, particularly concerning health issues like vaccination and treatments for COVID-19.

Pasternak is also known for her work as a columnist and commentator in Brazilian media, where she regularly addresses issues related to science and public health. Her efforts to promote critical thinking and scientific skepticism have earned her recognition both in Brazil and internationally.

Contributions to COVID-19 Response

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Natalia Pasternak emerged as a key figure in Brazil's response to the crisis. She was outspoken about the need for policies based on scientific evidence and criticized the use of unproven treatments such as hydroxychloroquine for COVID-19. Pasternak's advocacy for science-based approaches to pandemic management has been influential in shaping public discourse and policy in Brazil.

Awards and Recognition

Natalia Pasternak has received several awards for her contributions to science communication and public health. Her work during the COVID-19 pandemic, in particular, has been recognized for its impact on promoting accurate information and combating misinformation.

Publications

Pasternak has authored and co-authored numerous articles in scientific journals, focusing on microbiology, antibiotic resistance, and science communication. She has also contributed to books and other publications aimed at educating the public about science and critical thinking.

See Also

• Science communication
• COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil
• Pseudoscience
• Scientific literacy