Meet The Team
Gabriela Aleman, BS-Biology
Scientific Technician
At the heart of our cutting-edge clinical research facility, Gabriela serves as the driving force behind our success and impact on the community in which we serve. As a Scientific Technician, she does far more than execute protocols—she optimizes, refines, and redefines them. Gabriela ensures our research environment operates with uncompromising quality, marked by precision, rigorous organization, and exceptional accuracy. Her relentless commitment to excellence empowers Forefront Medical Research to deliver complex, high-stakes experiments with confidence—and achieve breakthrough results that truly move the needle in clinical science.
Gabriela is a proud graduate of the School of Integrative Biological and Chemical Sciences at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV). Raised in Matamoros, Mexico, she has pursued her education on both sides of the U.S.–Mexico border, embodying the rich bicultural experience of the region. As a true native of the Rio Grande Valley, Gabriela brings not only scientific expertise but also a deep understanding of the vibrant cultural heritage that unites South Texas and Northern Mexico—a perspective that strengthens her connection to the communities we serve.
SamueL Landero, MD
Principal Investigator
Elieth Jaramillo, PA-C
Sub-Investigator
Elieth Jaramillo, PA-C completed both her Bachelor's and Master's degrees at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV). She comes from a family of medical care providers and took a special interest in primary care from a young age. She takes pride in providing kind, compassionate, and thorough care to her patients. She has a strong passion for helping others and always works to make sure her patients feel listened to and understood. She values building strong provider-patient relationships and is committed to giving her best every day to support her patients' health and well-being.
Gissel Garza,
pA-C
Sub-Investigator
Gissell Garza, PA earned her Bachelor's and Master's degree of Physician Assistant Studies from The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV). She believes in personal, collaborative healthcare and works closely with patients to address both immediate concerns and long-term health goals. She is passionate about preventive care, chronic disease management, and helping patients clearly understand their health in a supportive, compassionate, and welcoming manner. She takes pride in creating a space where patients feel heard, respected, and confident in their care.
Andrea Tijerina,
PA-C
Sub-Investigator
Andrea Tijerina, PA-C earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology and Master of Physician Assistant Studies from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV). She provides thoughtful, patient-centered care built on listening, trust, and genuine connection. She is passionate about helping patients manage chronic conditions and improve their overall quality of life through education and personalized care. Above all, she is committed to creating a welcoming environment where patients feel comfortable discussing their concerns, asking questions, and taking an active role in their health.
Samuel N Landero, MD is Board Certified in Family Medicine (by the American Board of Family Medicine) and Obesity Medicine (by the American Board of Obesity Medicine). Dr. Landero studied medicine at the University of Montemorelos in Nuevo Leon, Mexico and completed his residency at the Valley Baptist Family Practice Residency Program here in Harlingen, Texas. He believes the more patients understand why a certain diagnosis and treatment are recommended, the more they will be empowered to make life-long changes pertinent to taking charge of their overall health.
Clinical REsearch Staff
Our team comes from a diverse educational background and are fully bilingual in English and Spanish.
