Jacqueline Flores-Otero, PhD, is a Clinical Associate Professor of Anatomy and Director of the Physical Therapy Gross Anatomy Laboratory at the University of Central Florida. She earned her PhD in Neuroscience, followed by Postdoctoral Fellowships in Neuro-Oncology at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the Institute of Neurobiology–University of Puerto Rico. Dr. Flores-Otero has over 15 years of research experience in the auditory and visual systems, Alzheimer’s disease, pediatric retinoblastoma, prostate cancer, and the endocannabinoid system as a therapeutic target for cancer. Her work has been published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at national and international conferences.

She teaches Human Gross Anatomy, Neuroanatomy, Neuroplasticity, and related areas, and is passionate about the role of neuroplasticity in mental health and student learning and memory resulting from mental health wellness. Her current mentorship includes a capstone research project exploring how neuroplasticity can enhance learning and memory. Her teaching and mentoring are driven by a commitment to helping students apply their knowledge to positively impact their communities.