When scientist Eduardo Zimmer received the Serrapilheira grant in 2020, he and his wife celebrated by adopting a puppy they named Baleia, a reference to both the Brazilian classic Vidas Secas (Barren Lives) and his research on whale brains. Four years later, Baleia has become a faithful companion, especially during the long hours of working from home.

Originally from Santo Ângelo in Rio Grande do Sul, Eduardo comes from a family known for its contributions to pharmaceutical research. He followed in their footsteps, earning a pharmacy degree, a master’s degree, and a doctorate in biochemistry from the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul. His academic journey took him to McGill University in Canada, where he fostered a lasting connection culminating in a visiting professorship at the Center for Studies in Aging in 2018.  

Currently a professor of pharmacology at UFRGS, Eduardo is dedicated to solving the mysteries of age-related brain shrinkage. While he is fascinated by the aging process, he also finds joy in the wonders of child development, especially after the arrival of his son, Benjamin, who has brought new meaning to his life.