Tala Azar, Ph.D. Email & Phone Number

Greater Philadelphia Area

As a part of the Liu Lab in the McKay Orthopaedic Research Laboratory, my research focus was on preclinical testing of osteoporosis treatment regimens that utilize anabolic agents. Using histology and microcomputed tomography techniques in both rat and mouse models, I evaluate these treatments and explore mechanisms underlying potential differences in efficacy. The ultimate goal is that this knowledge can be used to redesign and optimize osteoporosis treatment strategies using existing drugs to… Show more As a part of the Liu Lab in the McKay Orthopaedic Research Laboratory, my research focus was on preclinical testing of osteoporosis treatment regimens that utilize anabolic agents. Using histology and microcomputed tomography techniques in both rat and mouse models, I evaluate these treatments and explore mechanisms underlying potential differences in efficacy. The ultimate goal is that this knowledge can be used to redesign and optimize osteoporosis treatment strategies using existing drugs to maximize treatment benefits for patients. As a scientist, I have shared my research through many forms including manuscripts, research presentations, and conference abstracts. I have also collaborated with others as a co-author and have developed research protocols used in the lab. This science communication aspect of my work is very important to me, as I value story-telling and making science accessible for my target audience. Show less

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States

During my time with the Penn Science Policy and Diplomacy Group (PSPDG), I joined various projects and workshops that centered around bridging science and policy. As a part of the founding team of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Science and Technology Policy Fellowship (COPA-STEP), we sought to bridge the gap between the scientific community and policy makers in Pennsylvania. The primary goal of COPA-STEP is to establish a non-partisan state level science policy fellowship for… Show more During my time with the Penn Science Policy and Diplomacy Group (PSPDG), I joined various projects and workshops that centered around bridging science and policy. As a part of the founding team of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Science and Technology Policy Fellowship (COPA-STEP), we sought to bridge the gap between the scientific community and policy makers in Pennsylvania. The primary goal of COPA-STEP is to establish a non-partisan state level science policy fellowship for advanced degree holders in science. Going from team member to team lead, I led background research on previous fellowships, ideated what our fellowship could look like, initiated connections with stakeholders, and led team meetings. I first got started with PSPDG by joining a fellowship working group where we hosted four panelists in various science policy fellowships. Our goal was to provide an opportunity for the audience to learn about the variety of science policy fellowships, how to prepare for them, and what they're like once you get there. I researched various science policy fellowships, contacted potential panelists, and created informational slides. Show less

Greater New York City Area

As a part of this role, I synthesized scientific content to write and design social media posts. I also identified and engaged with potential new clients.

Greater New York City Area

Our primary purpose was to address disparities in breast cancer screening through wearable medical device design. My role in the team involved talking to women to collect data about patient perspectives, analyzing our market, and synthesizing this information to inform our decision making process.

Analyzed bone slides to determine the effects of disuse on the activity of osteocytes and remodeling in a rat model. Also quantified lacunar volume in various samples using an image processing software (ScanIP).

Throughout my four years with this organization, I served as Vice President, Event Coordinator, and as a project lead (Planning, Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning Lead). During this time, I worked on multidisciplinary projects related to our chapter's international project in Tadazna, Nicaragua where we are working with the community to improve their water access. Recently, our chapter also began an energy auditing project in our local community of Harlem with the Broadway Presbyterian… Show more Throughout my four years with this organization, I served as Vice President, Event Coordinator, and as a project lead (Planning, Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning Lead). During this time, I worked on multidisciplinary projects related to our chapter's international project in Tadazna, Nicaragua where we are working with the community to improve their water access. Recently, our chapter also began an energy auditing project in our local community of Harlem with the Broadway Presbyterian Church. Show less

City College Of New York

I collaborated on a project to optimize the delivery of ultrasound and heat shock to enhance osteogenesis of mesenchymal stem cells, with the potential to inform the design of heat-based therapies. My role involved administering the two stimuli and conducting biological assays.

Renal Research Institute At New York Medical College

I led a project to quantify the rigidity of a new hydrogel using biomechanical testing and determine its effect on the stem cell secretome. I also collaborated on a project to study the breakdown of the endothelial glycocalyx and its potential regeneration. This included quantitative analysis of confocal microscopy images.

Ph.D., Bioengineering

Bioengineering And Biomedical Engineering

Bachelor Of Engineering (B.E.), Biomedical/Medical Engineering

Activities and Societies: Engineers Without Borders, Tau Beta Pi, Biomedical Engineering Society, Honors Student Activities Council

International Baccalaureate (I.B.) Diploma

Activities and Societies: Human Rights Coalition, Italian Club, Math Honor Society, Science Honor Society, Art Honor Society