Dr. Maldonado's research is developing novel immune- and chemotherapy approaches to treat Chagas disease and Leishmaniasis. In this regard, Dr. Maldonado embraced molecular, cellular, and biochemical methodologies to develop vaccines, characterize and validate potential drug targets, and develop high-throughput systems for drug screening. Her research involves in vitro and in vivo testing, using the murine models for Chagas disease and cutaneous leishmaniasis. Another focus of her research involves community engagement and surveillance of Chagas Disease in El Paso and surrounding areas.She has a new interest in cancer research.