Merna Kamal

Data scientist with a Master's in Computer Science (AI/Data Science) and a Bachelor's in Neuroscience, specializing in applying machine learning, deep learning, statistical modeling, and bioinformatics to drive innovations in pharmaceutical drug discovery and precision medicine. Experienced in analyzing multi-omics, neuroimaging, and biomedical data to uncover biomarkers, model therapeutic response, and inform translational research. Skilled in developing reproducible, interpretable models using Python, TensorFlow, and scikit-learn to support data-driven decisions in biotechnology, drug repurposing, and systems biology.

Adept at integrating interdisciplinary knowledge to develop solutions that enhance human health and improve treatment outcomes.

Graduate Researcher at Columbus State University (2025-05 – Present)

Transcriptomic Biomarker Discovery and Drug Repurposing for Nerve Regeneration Using Machine Learning

• Analyzed 77 human sural nerve biopsies (GSE148059) from type 2 diabetic patients to identify gene expression signatures predictive of successful nerve regeneration.
• Performed differential gene expression analysis using Welch's t-test with Benjamini–Hochberg correction, identifying 1,637 significant genes (FDR < 0.05) and generating a high-confidence visualization subset (166 genes; p < 0.01, |log₂FC| > 0.5) for PCA and downstream analyses.
• Developed Random Forest and Neural Network classification pipelines using stratified 5-fold cross-validation, achieving ROC-AUC = 0.910 ± 0.112 (Random Forest) and ROC-AUC = 0.955 (Neural Network out-of-fold); validated model significance using 500-permutation testing (p = 0.002).
• Applied feature selection and explainable AI techniques (Random Forest feature importance, L1-regularized logistic regression, and SHAP) to identify robust biomarkers (including MALAT1, LINC01004, C1QA/C1QB/C1QC) associated with extracellular matrix remodeling, immune regulation, and nerve repair.
• Performed GO Biological Process, KEGG pathway, and LINCS L1000/DSigDB drug repurposing analyses, identifying multiple candidate therapeutics—including FDA-approved Imatinib, Dasatinib, and Fostamatinib—with potential neuroregenerative applications.
• Conducted external validation in an independent transcriptomic cohort (GSE24290), demonstrating 80% directional agreement (12/15 genes) with the discovery dataset and significant effect-size correlations (Pearson r = 0.687, p = 0.0047), supporting biomarker reproducibility across cohorts.
• Delivered clinically relevant insights for neuroregenerative drug discovery through an end-to-end, reproducible bioinformatics workflow integrating transcriptomics, machine learning, explainable AI, pathway enrichment, and drug repurposing to support biomarker discovery and precision medicine in peripheral nerve regeneration.

Guest Educator at Swing Education (2023-08 – Present)

• Delivered instruction across K–12 curricula and managed classrooms of 30+ students using strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills in fast-paced environments.
• Translated complex scientific and mathematical concepts into engaging, accessible lessons tailored to students with diverse learning styles and educational backgrounds.
• Developed strong interpersonal, leadership, and presentation skills through daily collaboration with students, faculty, and school administrators.

Account Manager at Selleck Chemicals (2023-05 – 2023-07)

• Leveraged deep knowledge of molecular biology to consult with UCLA research labs, matching their experimental needs with specific bioactive compounds, FDA-approved drugs, and research inhibitors.
• Analyzed sales data trends using Python and SQL, identifying high-growth opportunities and optimizing territory management, leading to an increase in sales frequency and revenue generation.
• Built automated sales dashboards using Power BI, tracking key performance metrics and providing insights that improved upselling and cross-selling strategies.

Master of Science in Computer Science, AI and data science concentration – Columbus State University (2025-12)

Bachelor of Arts in Neuroscience, Psychology (minor) – Smith College (2023-05)