Department of Medicine - Division of Infectious Disease

Identified and analyzed protein changes that signify an increase in antibiotic resistance for staphylococcus aureus (MRSA to hVISA). Performed proteomic analysis on other BSL2 and BSL2+ bacterial proteomes, including Clostridium difficile, Acinetobacter baumannii, Borrelia burgdorferi, and Neisseria meningitidis.

Water Sentinel (Aug '11 - May '12)Incorporated hydrolase chemistry and optimized oxime chemistry for nerve agent threat characterization in the water sentinel.Serine Hydrolase Superfamily (Feb '11 - Aug '11)Quantified enzymatic inhibition of several purified serine hydrolases (human, rat, and mini-pig) by organophosphates. Purification methods vary from precipitation to column chromatography.Agent Disclosure Sprays (Aug '08 - Jan '11)Formulated colorimetric spray for detection of nerve agents. Productized sprayer kit for use by emergency personnel and military response teams. Optimized vertical adhesion, color contrast, shelf-life stability, and compatibility with hard water. Implemented sonication process for better color visualization. Integrated sprays with similar technologies for deployment in a contamination management family of systems. Incorporated recombinant enzyme into product; supported fermentation efforts. Wrote technical reports detailing project progress for government funding agency.

Tested the use of oxidation chemistry on a polymer-enzyme matrix to detect low concentrations of gaseous ozone and hydrogen peroxide. Work was integrated into a air monitor that is currently undergoing productization.

Mentor Dr. Kirsten O'Hearn at the Laboratory of NeuroCognitive DevelopmentInvestigated methods of encoding visual information utilized by individuals with Autism Spectral Disorder. Identified a statistically significant difference in method used during subitizing tasks compared to control participants.

Mentor Dr. Steven Abramowitch at the Musculoskeletal Research CenterExecuted large-scale mechanical testing of canine Achilles tendon bundles via materials testing and motion analysis. Statistically determined bundles could be used interchangeably in healing studies due to similar mechanical properties. Continued patella tendon research began in Spring 2006.

Administered medical care to patients in Short-Stay Surgery/Overflow Unit. Responded to emergency situations. Liaison between patients and medical staff, acquiring vital signs, blood sugar, and biological samples.(Casual employment)

Mentor Dr. Steven Abramowitch at the Musculoskeletal Research CenterValidated non-contact laser micrometer system for measurement of soft tissue cross-sectional area less than 1 mm2. Verified mechanical testing protocol for future work. Gathered tensile testing data of rabbit patella tendons and analyzed the effect of small intestine submucosa on healing.