Cleveland, Ohio, United States
PhD scientist with 15+ years of experience generating, integrating and interpreting multiomic data to drive discovery in translational research. Deep expertise in experimental design, preparation, and bioinformatic analysis of next-generation sequencing datasets, including single-cell RNA-seq, spatial transcriptomics, ribosome profiling, CLIP-seq, and RNA-seq. Proven ability to manage multiple independent projects, troubleshoot complex workflows, and communicate results across diverse research teams. Strong publication record with 13 peer-reviewed articles (4 first-author), including in Nature and Molecular Cell. Proficient with Python, R, Linux command-line tools and writing shell scripts. Detail-oriented, collaborative, quick to adapt to emerging scientific tools and analytical platforms, and always eager to learn.
Spatial Platform Lead - Applied Functional Genomics Core: Consultant and project lead for spatial transcriptomics services and collaborative research support. -Led scRNA-seq and spatial transcriptomic analyses across multiple disease-focused projects (COVID, cardiovascular disease, colorectal cancer, oral cancer, Sezary syndrome). -Designed and built pipelines for end-to-end bioinformatics: raw data processing, QC, normalization, dimensionality reduction, clustering, cell-type annotation, differential expression, pathway/Gene Ontology analysis, ligand–receptor inference, RNA trajectory/velocity, and PPI network modeling. -Leveraged expertise in molecular biology to integrate multiomic datasets (bulk, single-cell, spatial RNA-seq, proteomics, imaging) to uncover novel disease mechanisms and biomarkers. -Managed 14+ spatial and single-cell service core projects over 3 years, responsible for client consultations, wet lab execution, and bioinformatic analysis. -Provided consultative expertise in spatial, single-cell, and RNA-seq study design and analysis for grant submissions and clinical trial protocols. -Spearheaded adoption of new spatial platforms and organized campus-wide educational seminars. -Mentored PhD students in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication.
Performed research investigating novel RBPs with essential roles in early CD4+ T-cell activation | Trained and managed projects for undergraduate students and research assistants | Researched and established specialized protocols for new laboratory techniques
Advisor: Dr. Donny Licatalosi Thesis Title: The molecular function of the RNA binding protein DAZL in male germ cell survival. -Served as technical and analytical consultant to external labs, supporting sequencing library prep and bioinformatic analysis (RNA-seq, PolyA-seq, ribosome profiling, iCLIP, polyA tail profiling). -Investigated RNA-protein interactions using an integrated approach (transcriptomics, proteomics, cell culture models, animal models) to define cell-specific regulatory programs important for male fertility. -Contributed to the development of novel technologies: dual-fluorescent flow cytometry approach for germ cell isolation; in vivo measurements of RNA-protein binding kinetics. -Acted as lab manager and mentor; trained students and coordinated projects (2014–2022). -Implemented new protocols in the lab including primary T-cell isolation (MACS), CRISPR genome editing, ribosome profiling, RBP proteomics, and stable cell line generation.
Performed research investigating the role of RNA binding proteins in reproductive health and fertility. Acted as a consultant for outside laboratories attempting HITS-CLIP and prepared several HITS-CLIP libraries for collaborators. Worked as laboratory manager in Dr. Licatalosi’s lab - responsible for training graduate and undergraduate students, ordering reagents and inventory management.
Led individual and group ballroom dance lessons in various dance styles following DVIDA curriculum. Assisted in special event planning and execution.