United States
In 2024, I earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry - Emphasis in Biochemistry from San Diego State University. My first research mentor, Dr. Bernt Bergdahl, is an associate professor of synthetic organic and bio-organic chemistry at SDSU. As an undergraduate researcher in the Bergdahl Lab, I spent three years supporting the total synthesis of novel compounds with promising anti-cancer activity and gained hands-on experience with complex reactions, purification, and analytical characterization using NMR and mass spectrometry. Concurrently, I worked as a Stockroom Assistant for the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry. From October 2024 to October 2025, I held a paid post-baccalaureate position at UCSD’s Moores Cancer Center through the STEPP-ON-UP program. In this role, I had the opportunity to conduct oncology research in Dr. Christina Jamieson’s lab, where her pioneering work in bone metastatic prostate cancer guides the use of 3D organoid models and patient-derived xenografts to study tumor microenvironments and in vivo cancer behavior. Under her mentorship, I gained a powerful introduction to cancer biology, as well as hands-on experience with FUCCI-based cell cycle imaging and advanced fluorescent imaging techniques, enabling precise visualization and quantification of cancer cell proliferation and responses to experimental therapeutics. Through the program, I also received in-clinic experiences as an intern in the clinical trials office, observing several leading physician-scientists and their patients, gaining valuable insight on how translational discoveries move from bench to bedside, impacting patient's lives every day. I currently work in the lab of Dr. Andrew Lowy, Chief of Surgical Oncology at UC San Diego’s Moores Cancer Center and a world-recognized leader in pancreatic and gastrointestinal cancers. His pioneering work includes iRGD-mediated drug delivery to overcome poor drug penetration in dense pancreatic tumors, temporarily increasing vascular permeability to improve treatment efficacy while reducing systemic toxicity. Under his leadership and the mentorship of Dr. Hervé Tiriac, a translational cancer researcher specializing in patient-derived pancreatic organoid platforms, our lab uses organoids, genetically engineered mouse models, PDXs, and patient-derived systems to study tumor development, tumor–stromal interactions, and therapeutic resistance. Deeply grateful for the research opportunities I’ve had, I am eager to continue growing in academic and industry settings that drive innovation and positive change in medicine.
Preparation and standardization of liquid stock solutions. Maintenance of teaching labs, hoods and equipment. Setting up materials and layouts for teaching labs. Handling of glassware/labware, equipment and inventory. Documentation (i.e. locker check-ins, check-outs, replacements). Tending to lab instructors' and students' needs; troubleshooting equipment. Supportive role in training other assistants.
From June 2021 to January 2023: Conducted organic synthetic steps, purifications, and compound characterizations for diverse projects. Played a key role in the organic synthesis of a natural product anti-cancer agent. Assisted in data replication, generated additional materials, and contributed to the completion of convergent synthetic routes. Managed a diverse range of chemical compounds with a strict adherence to safety operational procedures. Maintained detailed records, accurately tracking results and observations for each reaction. Contributed in preparing a manuscript for publication.