Bethany Perez Email & Phone Number

Austin, Tx, Us

Austin, Tx, Us

Austin, Texas, United States

In the Davies Lab, I work to design approaches for in situ and intracellular delivery of proteins by bacteria. My project focuses on Neonatal Receptor Rc (FcRN) binding either directly or via pre-albumin binding to extend protein half-life within an organism. I have explored many different techniques within the realm of protein purification and binding assays. I also collaborate on other projects within and outside the lab in topics like antimicrobials and machine learning application.

Ruston, Louisiana, United States

In this project, I developed an adaptive device that enabled a young girl with an upper limb difference the ability to ride a bike. I utilized a biomedical needs-based innovation pipeline which included brainstorming, design criteria & specifications, decision matrices, statistical analysis, and detailed record keeping via a design history file (DHF). In order to create a safe, supportive device that would not hinder the clients natural movements while in use, engineering concepts such as material analysis and cantilever mechanics were applied. CAD modeling was used in the designing of the device which was then 3D printed. Many statistical tests were designed and run to provide proof that the device was compliant with all design criteria assigned at the start of the project. Additionally, I acted as the team leader in the planning and delegating of tasks to the other team members through written agendas and scheduled meetings to ensure that the project stayed on track to be completed by the end of the school year.

Ruston, Louisiana, United States

As a resident teacher at Ruston High School, I managed six different classes, including some honors, of up to twenty-five students each. My main goal was to integrate my knowledge of pedagogy and biological science concepts into inquiry-based lessons that followed the curriculum. During this experience, I established a good rapport with my students that aided in articulating lesson materials to varying levels, learning styles, ethnicities, races, and some students with learning disabilities. I incorporated strategies I learned in classes like twenty-first century strategies and diverse learners into my lesson plans. I received my Google Educator Certificate prior to this experience and I worked extensively with the Google Education platform on the job. I also maintained an organized physical and online portfolio of all documentation for this job position including lesson plans, student documents, evaluations, and self-reflections.

Ruston, La

This research, conducted under the direction of Dr. Scott Poh, aimed to improve image-based, noninvasive detection of atherosclerosis. In this lab, I synthesized peptidomimetic drugs that targeted areas of inflammation through macrophage receptor binding and some with additional self-penetrating anti-inflammatory properties. This process included solid phase amino acid coupling, precipitation via rotavap, and lyophilization. I was also responsible for training other undergraduates on this process and updating the laboratory website.LaSPACE LURA Grant (2018-2019)In order to further study the effects of oxidative stress by macrophages during inflammation, this project explored a new method of low-level reactive oxygen species (ROS) detection with a reactive oxidative stress array (ROSA) biosensor. I was tasked with the testing and optimization of the device through various concentrations of oxidative stress inducer, incubation temperatures and time frames, and effects of several antioxidants at these different conditions. I was also responsible for maintaining mammalian cell culture and assisted in chronoamperometry data analysis. In relation to the topic of the grant, this study could further be used to diagnosis ROS levels in astronauts exposed to harmful radiation during long duration in space.

Urbana-Champaign, Illinois Area

As a part of the Frontiers in Biomedical Imaging REU program, I was assigned an interdisciplinary project with focuses in gene editing and bioimaging technologies. Working under Dr. Pablo Perez-Pinera, I utilized CRISPR-Cas9 and Nuclease Assisted Vector Integration (NAVI) to tag a transcription factor activated by proinflammatory signaling molecules. This involved techniques such as strategic guide sequence design, DNA cloning, bacterial cell transformation, and mammalian transfection. I also worked under Dr. Andrew Smith and learned to operate a laser fluorescent microscope which allowed me to visualize the translocation and localization of my gene edited cytokine. I gained computational experience using MatLab and ImageJ tools for data analysis. I was additionally introduced to scientific writing and presentation skills as I wrote a publication formatted final paper, designed posters, and presented in a symposium. I wrote a separate abstract that was accepted and I presented my research at the 2018 Biomedical Engineering Society National Conference.