Alexander Zee, PhD

Computational Biologist | NGS & Long-Read Sequencing | Bioinformatics & Molecular Biology

Saratoga, California, United States

About

Ph.D. in Biomolecular Engineering & Bioinformatics with expertise in multi-omics data integration, RNA sequencing (long-read Nanopore, Illumina, single-cell, bulk), and molecular biology. Skilled in Python, R, and advanced bioinformatics workflows. I have led projects from design to discovery, including building the first long-read RNA-seq circadian transcriptome dataset, engineering Illumina-to-long-read workflows, and constructing large-scale single-cell atlases. I integrate computational and experimental biology to reveal new perspectives on disease biology, and aging. Passionate about applying machine learning, large language models, and cutting-edge sequencing technologies to accelerate biomedical breakthroughs.

Experience

  • Computational Biologist at Sculpta Bio
    Sep 2025 - Feb 2026 · 6 mos

    - Designed and implemented production-ready Nextflow pipelines for ONT and PacBio long-read RNA-seq and single-cell long-read RNA-seq analysis, enabling scalable transcriptome characterization workflows from raw reads to isoform quantification

  • PHD Candidate at University of California, Santa Cruz
    Sep 2019 - Jun 2024 · 4 yrs 10 mos

    Chris Vollmers Lab - Generated and analyzed the first long-read sequencing data set of 12 mouse livers over a circadian time course, providing novel understanding into isoform regulation - Analyzed and translated data, using Python, to publicly understandable figures (Matplotlib), effectively communicating complex data to a broader audience - Created a workflow that converts Illumina libraries into long-read libraries, enabling faster data acquisition with optimal precision - Mentored a team of undergraduate students, providing guidance on research techniques, data analysis, and project development, while fostering critical thinking, collaboration, and professional growth

  • Research Associate at Chan Zuckerberg Biohub
    Jun 2018 - Jul 2019 · 1 yr 2 mos

    •Built a single-cell RNA-seq mouse aging atlas to characterize aging patterns in a mouse model •Optimization of a high-throughput RNA-seq pipeline enhancing efficiency and accuracy •Conducted single-cell RNA-seq analysis using Python (Pandas, NumPy, Scanpy) and R (Seurat) to identify and classify cell types

  • Undergraduate Researcher at Wang Lab
    Apr 2016 - Jun 2018 · 2 yrs 3 mos

    • Independently carried out experiments involving transgenic mouse models •Performed PCR, and Gel Electrophoresis to determine the genotype of the mouse • Maintained 20+ mouse cages, 1-2 hours per day separating mice to prevent overcrowding • Attended weekly lab meetings, prepped and presented many scientific articles Senior Thesis: Elucidating the Relationship Between the AR and Wnt pathways in Prostate Basal Cells during Homeostasis. (Dean's Award)

  • Senior Coach at Lifetime Tennis
    Jun 2011 - Sep 2016 · 5 yrs 4 mos

    Communication -Developed and taught tennis skills to students ranging from 4 year olds and up. Leadership -Organized fun activities and drills for students. -Developed strong relationships with patrons and continue a thriving business. -Produced and led methods for recruiting new patrons in addition to building and sustaining a positive relationship with the community.