Staff Research Associate III - University of California San Diego - San Diego, CA
(2022-10)
Full-time | Dr. Andrew M Lowy lab | Department of Surgery (Validating drug targets for PDAC)
- Independently design, execute, and manage complex molecular and cell biology experiments in support of translational cancer research, with a primary focus on pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC).
- Develop, optimize, and perform cell-based and in vitro functional assays, including proliferation, migration, invasion, and viability assays, ensuring reproducibility and high-quality data generation.
- Generate and maintain advanced experimental models, including dual-recombinase genetically engineered mouse models, Liver metastasis models and PDAC organoid systems, to investigate gene function and therapeutic targets.
- Perform hands-on in vivo studies, including orthotopic tumor implantation, drug administration (IV, IP, SC), blood collection, necropsy, and tissue processing (FFPE and OCT).
- Conduct molecular and biochemical assays such as RNA isolation, qPCR, Western blotting, immunofluorescence, and immunohistochemistry to support mechanistic studies.
- Manage rodent colonies, including breeding, genotyping, health monitoring, and compliance with institutional animal care and biosafety regulations.
- Analyze experimental data, maintain accurate laboratory records, and prepare detailed reports, figures, and summaries for manuscripts, presentations, and grant applications.
- Collaborate with faculty, postdoctoral fellows, and cross-disciplinary teams, contributing technical expertise and scientific insight to project planning and execution.
- Mentor and supervise graduate and undergraduate researchers, providing training in experimental techniques, data analysis, and laboratory best practices.
- Maintain a high level of organization, attention to detail, and adherence to timelines in a fast-paced academic research environment.
Post-Doctoral Associate - Indiana School of Medicine - Indianapolis, IN
(2018-01 - 2019-12)
Full time, Dr. Kacena A Melissa lab (Orthopedic surgery)
- Independently designed and executed translational research projects using type 2 diabetic and aging mouse models to investigate mechanisms regulating bone healing and angiogenesis.
- Established and managed complex in vivo studies, including rodent breeding, genotyping, surgical procedures, drug administration, blood collection, and tissue harvesting, in compliance with institutional animal care protocols.
- Performed and optimized molecular, cellular, and immunological assays, including ELISA, flow cytometry (FACS), qPCR, Western blotting, and immunostaining, to assess cellular phenotype and functional outcomes.
- Maintained and expanded mammalian primary cell culture systems, including megakaryocytes, endothelial cells, macrophages, osteoclasts, and bone-derived cells, supporting mechanistic and functional studies.
- Investigated age- and disease-associated cellular interactions influencing bone remodeling, leading to novel insights into megakaryocyte-driven osteoclastogenesis.
- Analyzed and interpreted complex datasets, prepared high-quality figures, and contributed to manuscript preparation, grant applications, and scientific presentations.
- Collaborated closely with multidisciplinary research teams and core facilities, integrating in vivo, in vitro, and analytical approaches to advance project objectives.
- Mentored graduate students, medical students, and undergraduate researchers, providing technical training and scientific guidance.
- Demonstrated strong project ownership, organization, and time management while meeting strict experimental and reporting deadlines.
