• Studying how molecular heterogeneity of pancreatic islet cells influence cellular function. To do this, functional properties of islets cells isolated from human pancreas are measured by patch-clamp electrophysiology, and subsequently correlated to gene expression profiles determined by single-cell RT-qPCR.• Validating correlations between molecular and functional variations of islet cells in pancreatic slices, which better represent physiological conditions. This is achieved by measuring electrophysiological properties of islet cells in live pancreatic slices, followed by sequential fluorescent in situ hybridization and immunofluorescent labeling for cell-type specific markers.

Research Highlights:• Developed qPCR assays for rapid pathogen detection.• Invented novel buffer formulations and protocols for simplified processing of complex biological and environmental specimens.• Translated research into production environment.Project Management:• Identified key research milestones, activities and deliverables to facilitate timely execution and completion of assay development projects for animal, food and environmental monitoring sectors.• Trained and supervised a small team of laboratory personnel, assigned tasks according to skill levels and development goals.• Collaborated with academic and industrial partners to facilitate continued product development.Technical Communication:• Developed Procedures, Product Inserts, User Instruction Manuals and Technical White Papers for external customers.• Prepared technical product concepts and data for regulatory submissions to pertinent governing bodies.• Presented research findings to internal and external research and business development groups.

Research Highlights:• Developed a novel single-cell qRT-PCR method to examine neuronal gene expression in combination with molecular cloning, western blot and morpholino oligonucleotide mediated gene knockdown.• Studied synaptic AMPA, NMDA, GABAA, and Glycine currents in developing CNS using whole-cell patch clamp electrophysiology and pharmacological modulators.• Demonstrated neuronal dendritic branching and escape response of embryonic zebrafish using immunohistochemistry, confocal microscopy and behavioral assay. Mentoring and Teaching:• Assisted visiting professors to learn zebrafish embryo microdissection, microinjection, and in vivo whole-cell patch-clamp techniques.• Mentored new graduate students and directed summer students. • Taught undergraduate sessional courses on Neurobiology, Molecular Genetics and Cell Biology.• Led discussion course on Animal Physiology.