San Francisco, California, United States
I am a scientist and a science translator, with interest and experience in sharing science with nonscientists and not-yet-scientists. As a PhD student and postdoc at UCSF, I studied signaling proteins that cause cancer, using organic chemistry, protein engineering, biochemistry, tissue culture and proteomics to uncover new biology and potential therapeutics. I support my lab skills with experience in scientific programming and in writing.
Chemistry and Chemical Biology graduate student and then postdoc in the Shokat laboratory. Studied cell division signaling to better understand normal cell growth and to find new therapeutic avenues for cancer treatment. Led preclinical development of a novel approach for designing selective kinase inhibitors: linking an active-site ligand to an allosteric ligand to create a bitopic inhibitor. Synthesized and characterized a series of bitopic BCR::ABL1 inhibitors for activity and selectivity. Led collaborations with seven academic laboratories, including experimental design, troubleshooting and data analysis, and supervised contract research organizations. Led the preclinical in vivo program for a lead compound: designed and oversaw toxicity, pharmacokinetics and efficacy studies.
Improved visibility of policy issues on campus by organizing public events and writing regular newsletter. Recruited and trained new group members. Co-led Clean Hands Project, manufacturing and distributing over 60,000 bottles of hand sanitizer to vulnerable populations during the COVID-19 crisis.
Worked under Dr. Andrew G. Myers developing versatile synthetic routes to novel antibiotic analogs.
Wrote profiles of STEM professionals for a young adult audience.
Translated fungus-related reports and the "Field Guide to the Fungi of Chile" by Giuliana Furci and participated in field research training expeditions.