• Worked independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team to evaluate non-viral gene therapies using patented 3-DNA scaffold technology.• Developed and optimized cell-based assays to assess potency and durability of genetic payloads, using microscopy, ddPCR and other molecularbiology techniques.• Designed and generated technical protocols and SOPs in accordance with GLPs and tracked samples using a Laboratory InformationManagement System.

• Perform hands-on-analysis of brain tissue obtained from rodent models of CNS diseases.• Develop, optimize, and conduct biochemical assays with brain tissue or cultured primary and immortalized cell lines.• Design and optimize a cellular excitotoxicity assay to investigate novel neuroprotective treatments.• Optimize neuronal differentiation protocols to generate hippocampal neurons to explore underlying pathology in AD and other neurodegenerative diseases.

• Design and execute cellular experiments and screens using shRNA, CRISPR/Cas9, and other functional genomics tools for target identification, MOA characterization, and mechanisms of resistance and/or sensitivity to small and large molecules.• Regularly perform cell culture in viral BSL-2 lab for small scale assay optimization and large screens, as well as qPCR, gDNA extractions, and additional molecular biology techniques.• Maintain an organized and detailed electronic laboratory notebook (Signals, Biovia).

-Investigating the role of microglia in neurodegeneration using human iPSC-derived microglia on multiple assays, including phagocytosis, chemotactic migration, and viability assays.-Explore efficacy and mechanisms of action of siRNA and antisense oligonucleotides in vitro and in vivo.-Optimize and implement neuronal differentiation protocols in embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cells.-Regularly perform qPCR, immunocytochemistry, ELISAs, confocal microscopy, and cell culture.

• Investigated the underlying mechanisms of neurodegeneration using human iPSC-derived neurons containing mutations that cause frontotemporal dementia and other neurodegenerative diseases. • Designed and generated stable mutant APP/PSEN cell lines through CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing in induced pluripotent stem cells. • Facilitated neuronal differentiation of iPSC lines through Dual SMAD inhibition and cultivated cortical neurons for 3D co-culture with astrocytes and other microglial cells for further analyses.• Assisted in managing laboratory operations during a relocation period, including rodent colony maintenance, and lab inventory monitoring and purchasing.

• Identified a key residue on glutamate transporter EAAT2 at the interface of the scaffolding and transportation Domains that when mutated, resulted in a 300% uptake of extracellular glutamate, and hold potential for therapeutic treatment in conditions of excitotoxicity.• Designed and investigated the effects of additional local point mutations to further explore the mechanism of action of the increased glutamate uptake. • Compared EAAT2 surface protein expression between mutant and wild-type transporters through BS3-crosslinking and surface biotinylation.• Identified several novel compounds derived from spider venom components which provide neuroprotection when bound to the EAAT2 activation domain through hybrid structure-based virtual screening.• Explored any off-target effects of novel compounds on other neurotransmitter transporters, including serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine in vitro.

I recorded patient vital signs including: blood pressure, heart rate, body temperature, and height/weight. I also provided the physician a detailed medical history for new patients. Additionally, I was tasked with administering injections and immunizations, as well as Electrocardiograms.

I was tasked with assisting students in understanding course material in a number of courses (Chemistry, Biology, Math, and Anatomy & Physiology). I reviewed homework assignments and returned tests. I provided effective study strategies and review methods for academic success.

• Investigated the correlation between body perception and eating attitudes in female undergraduates.• Organized and analyzed data as head of data management group.

• Examined the effects of several depressants on the medulla using a weakly electric fish bio-assay.• Conducted experiments and interpreted data.• Presented results at The 2011 Ursinus College Summer Fellows Research Symposium, 2011 Mid-Atlantic Pharmacological Society at Thomas Jefferson University, and The 2012 Ursinus College Celebration of Student Achievement.

• Researched automaticity in grapheme-color synesthesia by studying brain activity using electroencephalography.• Prepared subjects for test administration and attached the EEG apparatus.

• Managed two sections of Biology101 Lab.• Graded all assignments and kept gradebook up to date.• Aided students in performing experiments and understanding results.

• Processed customer orders• Prepared pizzas and readied them for delivery• Kept the store clean and organized• Delivered orders if necessary

• Scheduled appointments and events.• Authorized electronic referrals and called in prescriptions.• Filed physician reports and organized patient charts.