​​Mothé’s curiosity about the immune system led to her expertise in immunology and vaccine design. She’s now a prominent researcher who has designed novel vaccines for rapidly mutating pathogens, including HIV and SIV. At CSUSM, she’s created highly engaging experiences through research and trained peers and colleagues to prioritize student success. Mothé was a Fulbright Scholar and received a Research Award for CSUSM in 2010/2022. She was appointed a permanent member of the National Institutes of Health Vaccines Against Microbial Diseases Study Section in 2014, which reviews grant proposals and makes funding recommendations. In 2023 she was honored with an Andreoli Faculty Service Award for CSUBIOTECH, which acknowledges CSU faculty who’ve demonstrated the highest level of service to the biotechnology community. “I want to create opportunities for underrepresented students to engage in cutting-edge science,” Mothé says. “As a scientist, this requires staying connected and fostering collaborations with other scientists. As an educator, this involves exposing students and allowing them to immerse themselves in science.”