Experience

Gateway Institute for Brain Research

• United States
• Research Services
• 1 - 100 Employee

• Research Scientist

  • Feb 2019 - Present

  As a member of a brand new BSL-2 lab, I carry out 𝘪𝘯 𝘷𝘪𝘵𝘳𝘰 experimental design, biological and analytical assay development, and small molecule characterization to advance the discovery of novel genetic modifiers, small molecules, biologics, and potential therapeutic targets for neurological diseases, specifically—Parkinson’s Disease. I work regularly with Laboratory and Data Scientists to improve our assay development and small molecule discovery and characterization efforts, and participate in weekly and quarterly meetings as a key technical resource to present data. Show less



Vital Pharmaceuticals, Inc VPX

• United States
• Food and Beverage Services
• 200 - 300 Employee

• Microbiologist

  • Aug 2018 - Jan 2019

  I was recruited to lead the startup operations of an internal GMP and BSL-2 state-of-the-art microbiology lab. Tapping into my previous experience, I worked cross-collaboratively with the QA and R&D groups to perform and implement analytical wet chemistry techniques and physical QC microtesting methods on raw materials, and manage the selection, purchase, and installation of biosafety cabinets and other laboratory equipment. I also liaised with the Quality Control and R&D teams on researching, selecting, and integrating a waste disposal system. Show less



Sancilio and Company, Inc.

• United States
• Pharmaceutical Manufacturing
• 1 - 100 Employee

• Analytical Sciences Intern

  • Aug 2017 - May 2018

  I joined Sancilio after developing an interest in the analytical sciences and their relation to biopharmaceutical R&D. Adjusting from academia to a cGMP and FDA-regulated facility was initially challenging, although I ENJOYED every moment. ▶️ KEY ACHIEVEMENTS Working with senior scientists, I prepared and characterized new compounds using quantitative analytical testing, such as HPLC, LC-MS, and other techniques to develop methods in an analytical chemistry laboratory. I was exposed to the regulatory affairs function, where I participated in reviewing, updating, and validating technical documentation including SOPs, certificates of analysis, cGMP protocols, and CMC reports, and grew knowledge in quality and FDA compliance. 🧫 Prepared the laboratory for an FDA audit—my most exciting moment—which later lead to an offer from HR to apply for an open Data Review position in QA. 🧫 Joined the microbiology lab to help with sample collection, preparation, and analysis, using PCR and gel electrophoresis, and perform regular environmental monitoring tests to detect contamination, while managing analytical science duties. ▶️ PROFESSIONAL TAKEAWAY The cohesive setting offered opportunities to work cross-departmentally with senior scientists from QA, product development, regulatory affairs, and manufacturing, gaining a behind-the-scenes look at the formulation mechanisms for pharmaceutical product development, technology transfer processes, and FDA compliance frameworks. This experience provided me with a training ground for bigger opportunities and inspired me to launch a career in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry. Show less



Florida Atlantic University

• United States
• Higher Education
• 700 & Above Employee

• Doctoral Researcher | Graduate Teaching Assistant

  • Aug 2012 - May 2018

  Under the direction of Dr. Ken Dawson-Scully, I investigated the genetic, molecular, and physiological mechanisms that contributed to the recovery time from electroconvulsive (EC) seizures in 2 invertebrate organisms. My research began with Drosophila, aka fruit flies. I planned and ran experiments focused on developing and testing multiple behavioral assays, and uncovered a key protein—cGMP-dependent protein kinase—responsible for altering the recovery time from an EC seizure. This discovery resulted in one of my first publications. Over the years, I would author and contribute to 6 more papers. This discovery advanced the project and research on the C.elegans (transparent nematode) model began. I continued to develop and adopt behavioral assays to identify different strains of epilepsy and use the cGMP/PKG pathway to pharmacologically and genetically manipulate the ion channels to evaluate EC seizure recovery time. Outside of my research, I taught both undergraduate and graduate courses and laboratory sessions in microbiology and neuroscience, where I learned to tap into my patience and adapt my communication style. These teaching experiences served as great practice for my public speaking opportunities at conferences and symposiums. Additional achievements included: ✔Selected as 1 of 4 students to attend The International Max-Planck Research School for Brain & Behaviour collaborative neuroscience Ph.D. program. ✔Recruited and invited the 1st Nobel Laureate—Dr. Martin Chalfie—to attend the 2015 Integrative Biology Ph.D. Retreat. ✔Published an article in ‘The Huffington Post’ on fruit fly behaviors within a 3-day deadline, producing 6-figures worth of publicity. ✔Recognized with 10+ research awards, scholarships, and doctoral fellowships for exceptional research accomplishments. ✔Wrote and secured a grant from Pfizer to design experiments analyzing Viagra’s effectiveness as an antiepileptic drug. Show less



Auburn University

• United States
• Higher Education
• 700 & Above Employee

• Researcher

  • May 2011 - Jun 2012

  My very first research experience began as an undergraduate while earning my Bachelor’s in biology degree from Auburn University. During this time, I worked with a graduate student in Dr. Aaron M. Rashotte’s group where our research concentrated on how the plant hormone—cytokinin—is involved in the molecular growth and development processes. A major goal of the research was focused on understanding the relationship between cytokinin and stress in Aradiposis (small flowering plants) during the final stages of leaf development. This research also provided great practical value because we were able to hypothesize how stressors affected the way that nutrients were recycled to other parts of the plant. My greatest achievement during this period was my very first publication which detailed the relationship between cytokinin and oxidative stress responses, as evidenced by our research findings. Little did I know how much this experience would shape my career path. At that time, I was enrolled in the pre-medicine track and had my heart set on becoming a doctor. This experience opened my eyes to the research aspect, where I learned how to work effectively in a research laboratory setting while stretching the boundaries of my problem solving, time management, teamwork, and communication skills through interactions with other students and professors. Show less