Lead assay development projects investigating antigen-presenting cell and RBC derivatives manufactured using our proprietary Cell Squeeze® technology targeting HPV16+ solid tumors and Celiac Disease. Achievements include:•Developed, optimized, and qualified six analytical assays such as Western Blot, co-culture functional assays, multi-color Flow Cytometry, plate-based fluorescence assay, ELISA, and in vitro transcription to evaluate drug product and cargo characteristics such as stability and functionality.Authored SOPs, reports, and study designs compliant with ICH and GMP guidelines.•Generated IND-enabling data along with subsequent analysis to be incorporated into the larger IND package.•Directly communicated with external CDMOs to transfer developed assays and coordinate drug product testings.•Expanded knowledge in immunology via company-sponsored classes at Harvard Extension School and various specific disease indications in current company pipelines such as HPV16+ solid tumors, Celiac Disease, KRAS, and TILs.•Familiarized with FDA requirements for IND submission for cell therapies.

Assisted a graduate student to teach an introductory biology lab.  Responsibilities included:• Managing class order and correcting homework; overseeing and instructing students on assays such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and gel electrophoresis, restriction enzyme digests, bacterial transformation, SDS-PAGE, and Western Blotting.

Tested biochemical labels against Staphylococcus aureus using protein-membrane interactions with the goal of targeted antibiotics delivery. Achievements:• Gained general lab experience and knowledge of biochemical assays such as cell culture, peptide synthesis, fluorophore labeling, and subsequent purification and characterization methods such as size-exclusion and affinity-based chromatography, and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) followed by mass spectrometry (MS).• Cultured bacterial cells, and diagnosed the effect of our biochemical label using pulse-chase, flow cytometry, and MTT.• Presented findings at weekly group meetings.

Assisted in the research to synthesize, purify, and test chemical candidates for novel Lewis acid/Lewis base catalysis systems. Achievements:•Gained general lab experience and knowledge of organic chemistry assays such as synthesis and purification.•Trained to work in the glove box independently and handle hazardous chemicals such as organolithiums.•Characterized and analyzed candidates via nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and mass spectrometry (MS).