His research focuses on how neurons choose specific connections in the developing animal as they assemble into a functioning brain and how these connections change during behavior and learning. His scientific work has been recognized with a number of awards, including the Sloan Research Fellowship for “outstanding promise.” Daniel is also the cofounder of Ciencia Puerto Rico, a nonprofit organization that promotes scientific research and education, particularly among Hispanics. In 2011, his outreach and scientific work were recognized by the American Association for the Advancement of Science with the Early Career Award for Public Engagement with Science. Daniel was born and raised in Puerto Rico. He studied biology at Harvard University and obtained his Ph.D. from Duke University in molecular biology and genetics.