I am a neuroscientist passionate about science and health policy, with experience working across academic, governmental, and non-profit research teams. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology from Yale University, where I completed a neuroscience-based thesis examining the cognitive effects of Early Life Stress in mouse models. Currently, as a doctoral candidate in the Department of Psychiatry at Emory University, my research focuses on the physiological mechanisms linking traumatic stress to adverse maternal health outcomes in Black pregnant persons. After completing my doctorate, I aim to apply my interdisciplinary scientific expertise in the public health or science policy sectors, particularly in initiatives that address racial-ethnic health disparities and education inequities. I am open to exploring new opportunities within policy.Interests: Health Disparities, Community Health, Community Outreach, Behavioral Health Interventions, Environmental Justice, Maternal Health Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Education, Science and Research Practices, BioethicsSUMMARY OF QUALIFICATIONS:• Six (+) years of experience in biomedical research, working in both basic and behavioral health sciences. • Laboratory Skills: Clinical interviews, EMG, ECG, skin conductance, longitudinal growth curve modeling, voltammetry, qPCR, behavioral testing, immunohistochemistry, PCR, gel electrophoresis, imaging •Computational Skills:  MPlus, R, SPSS, MindWare (BioLab), MATLAB, ImageJ, RedCap, Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint • Excellent analytical, critical thinking, communication, leadership and organizational skills;• Bilingual: Ability to fluently read, write, and speak Spanish and English at a collegiate level (Native speaker born in Mexico)Contact me directly at mariana.rocha@emory.edu, I would love to connect with you!