Research Development Associate II

• Aug 2022 - Present

Neuroscience PhD

• Aug 2015 - Aug 2022

-Developed a new animal model for systems neuroscience studies: transparent fish Danionella cerebrum. This was done via developing and adapting transgenesis, imaging, and behavioral techniques previously developed in zebrafish. -Characterized several behavioral characteristics of Danionella, namely their highly sophisticated and sensory-modulated social learning skills, as well as the modulatory role of neuropeptide oxytocin in these behaviors.-Received broader training in methods including immunohistochemistry, microscopy, expression cloning, animal behavior, live in-vivo imaging, transgenesis development of zebrafish and Danionella. -Presented results locally and internationally using slide show and poster formats to a variety of audiences from diverse backgrounds, including non-scientists.-Created data visualizations, authoring, and editing manuscripts to describe project results.

STEM Ambassador Trainee

• Sep 2016 - Oct 2017

The STEM Ambassador Program (STEMAP) is a public engagement training program funded by the National Science Foundation to promote open minded-exchange between members of the public and the scientific community.Through STEMAP I gained extensive experience on how to independently run a science outreach event and provide the general public with information about the general sciences. This culminated with me organizing and presenting a didactic presentation about brain function to several nursing homes across Utah, and forming connections with Centro de La Familia, a Hispanic-focused center that provides education and counseling services to latinos of every age.

Summer Research Assistant

• May 2014 - Aug 2014

Conducted research to determine the potential brain-specific interacting partners of LATS1, a tumor-suppressing protein-Gained experience in molecular techniques such as co-immunoprecipitation and western blots. - Presided and attended weekly neuroscience Journal Club meetings to remain updated on current research updates from the scientific community. -Developed a summer research project based on extensive literature research on the subject. - Delivered poster presentation on research findings at the 2014 Johns Hopkins University C.A.R.E.S. Symposium

Summer Research Assistant

• Jun 2013 - Aug 2013

Conducted research to determine the effectiveness of reduced uric acid levels on the endothelial cell function of patients with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)-Assessed the amount of oxidative stress marker NADPH on the endothelial cells of patients pre, during and post-treatment of “allopurinol”, a drug intended to reduce uric acid levels- Assessed the amount of inflammatory marker ILK-1 present on endothelial cells of patients pre and post treatment of interleukin blocker “rinolacept”.-Performed immunofluorescence staining on endothelial cells of patients to identify the presence of oxidative stress and inflammation markers- Analyzed stained endothelial cells on an Olympus FV-1000 confocal microscope

Office Administrator

• Aug 2009 - Jul 2011

-Restructured over 1000 different products over a well-constructed and organized database.-Assisted in the creation of a lighting design course for architects. -Restructured over 1000 different products over a well-constructed and organized database.-Assisted in the creation of a lighting design course for architects.