Spearheaded R&D initiatives, managed diverse teams, and fostered innovation within the Boost Biomes platform across microbiology, molecular biology, and bioinformatics. Leveraged data management and collaborative efforts to advance product development for sustainable agricultural solutions.

Led a technical team, drove product innovation, and oversaw production processes to ensure quality, efficacy, and timeliness. Established essential infrastructure including biorepositories, high-throughput product validation platforms, and robust data management systems.

Developed innovative assays for microbial product identification and managed extensive field trials for microbial product validation. Established robust manufacturing and quality control processes, ensuring regulatory compliance and operational efficiency.

Genetic and biochemical analysis of chaperones and unfolded protein substrates• Investigated the genetic interactions of molecular chaperones in vivo • Characterized the molecular function and in vitro protein-protein interactions of chaperones • Developed new assays and protocols for research applications including mutagenesis, protein isolation, UV-Vis spectrophotometry, and fluorescent spectrometry• Managed collaborative research teams across various institutions to accomplish project goals• Mentored and supervised medical, graduate, and undergraduate traineesExamined fungal cell wall development and regulation in Aspergillus sp.• Conducted genetic screens to identify fungal cell wall regulators• Tested cell wall-targeting antifungal compounds

Monitored microbial activity in air, surface, and water for the Shuttle and the International Space Station Programs and lent expertise to ensure astronaut health in a space habitat.• Identified bacterial and fungal organisms via sequencing and biochemical analysis• Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to deliver products for space flight• Maintained laboratory AIHA certifications through frequent QA/QC and proper documentation• Trained laboratory technicians on molecular biology equipment, SOPs, and protocols for microbial cultures, PCR, genetic sequencing, data analysis, and laboratory certification requirements Investigated innovative bacterial, fungal, and viral methodologies; developed applications for clinical and environmental monitoring for future space flights.• Adapted novel genetic methods to detect microbial communities in a space environment

Studied host-pathogen interactions between maize and fungal pathogen Colletotrichum graminicola. • Investigated the fungal genes required for plant colonization and disease progression through genetic techniques such as mutagenesis and rt qPCR. • Characterized the disease progression by tracking the fungus in vivo using fluorescence microscopy