Michelle Penaranda Email & Phone Number

Picture a kid glowing with glee in a candy store or an amusement park – that is how I feel every time I am conducting experiments in the laboratory. My inherent curiosity and passion for scientific research cannot be overemphasized without sounding cliché or coming off boring. But truth be told, I am a lab geek – and I am proud of it.Over the course of my research career, I cannot tell you how many overnights and weekends I have spent in the lab designing/optimizing protocols, troubleshooting equipment, or simply trying to get that missing result that would finally complete the scientific puzzle. It never crossed my mind to count as I always felt like I was just playing and having fun. I am very diligent and highly-motivated, not because my supervisor requires me to, but because I love doing what I do. I value productivity and efficiency among others, and I believe that those can be easily achieved by striking the right balance between technical skills, theoretical knowledge, and practical intelligence – all of which, I possess and more.My research interests include virus-host interactions, virulence mechanisms, and vaccine development. My Ph.D. advisor used to say that “viruses make life worth living.” Indeed, my professional life would have never been as satisfying and exciting without the challenges posed by virus and vaccine research. One thing that I have in common with viruses is the ability to adapt and evolve with the changing environment. I certainly welcome opportunities that would allow me to learn new experimental techniques and maximize my scientific experience. Feel free to reach out if you want to talk science (or some technical mishaps perhaps?).Outside the laboratory, you will likely find me spending time with my family, friends, and dogs. I love to travel and watch concerts. And on some crazy days, I have a penchant for climbing up walls, and jumping off bridges and moving planes.