The overarching theme of my doctoral research is to understand how cis-regulatory elements function to regulate gene expression in mammalian cells, with a particular focus on understanding how enhancers function to regulate transcription in the three-dimensional context of the nucleus. To accomplish this, I have first been developing novel biotechnologies and methods in order to hurdle current technical impasses in the field. After developing such methods, I used a combination of high-throughput genomic approaches in conjunction with conventional molecular and biochemical methods to tackle the hypotheses driving my thesis work.

The UCSD EChallenge is a $150,000 business plan competition aimed at developing multidisciplinary teams that strive to turn research discoveries at UCSD and the Torrey Pines Mesa into commercially viable business opportunities. As a member of the organizing staff, I have been responsible for designing and executing the operational procedures for EChallenge events and competitions. Specific roles include the following:- Recruited judges for all rounds of the 2012-2013 Business Plan competition- Video documented the 2012-2013 Business Plan Final Workshop Series- Collected and managed census data from previous EChallenge Business Plan finalists.

-Investigated the efficacy of viral gene therapy mediated by an oncolytic Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) in vitro and in murine cancer models. -Characterized the epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).-Developed, characterized and functionally evaluated TGFB1-inducible EMT models.-Established an industry collaboration with OSI Pharmaceuticals, a translational research project examining the prognostic and predictive capabilities of a proprietary EMT gene signature in 250 resected NSCLC paired specimens and preclinical EMT models. -Established mouse models of Bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis and evaluated the therapeutic and preventative potential of targeted small molecule inhibitors, as well as novel peptide-based MRI imaging modalities.

-Assisted in gaining a better understanding of how Actin influences plant cell dynamics and how various genes impact plant phenotype in Physcomitrella and Arabidopsis models.

-Established a working knowledge of the business and logistical operations of a healthcare facility by compiling JCAHO data and worked directly with the Purchasing, Billing, and Equipment Management departments.