I am a research scientist with a broad skillset ranging from synthetic chemistry and nanofabrication to tissue culture and cellular biology. During my doctoral studies, I created novel strategies for protein profiling and active targeting/controlled release of medicinal nanotherapies. I was trained in electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, electrophoresis, mass spectrometry, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and more. My DARPA-funded postdoctoral work involved the creation of biomimetic smart materials capable of modulating their properties autonomously based on environmental cues. During this time, I gained expertise in material science and electrophysiology, adding cell-free protein synthesis, confocal microscopy, and DNA origami to my set of skills. My research interests in biomimetic strategies for programming smart nanophase materials led me to my current position as a senior research associate within the department of surgery at the UTK Medical Center. Here, I have found success applying what I have learned to create more clinically viable strategies to imbue genetic nanotherapies with cell-specificity and increased efficacies overall. I have also gained expertise in high pressure liquid chromatography, in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo nanoparticle delivery assays, and quantitative polymerase chain reaction experiments. Importantly, I have garnered a deeper understanding of how lab-based advances in nanotechnology can reach and benefit the public.