Belle Mead, New Jersey, United States
• Analytical, perceptive, and forward-thinking professional with comprehensive knowledge and background within the fields of biochemistry and molecular biology, combined with hands-on experience in cell culture, stable cell line development and experimental design for cell-based assays for biological research • Experience in cell line development techniques for the generation of numerous stable cell lines expressing oncogene(s) used for oncology drug discovery. • Successfully elucidated function and potential immunomodulatory mechanism of a novel viral protein found in a skin lesion causing virus which may inhibit inflammation. • Passionate, enthusiastic and self-driven with the ability to collaborate and work in both local and global team environment to meet critical deadlines and move projects forward to successful completion in GLP/FDA regulated environments.
Participated in multiple projects for drug discovery of novel proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTAC) and regulated induced proximity targeting chimeras (RIPTAC) compounds to treat various cancers. Successfully executed and troubleshooted various cell-based assays to determine potency of potential cancer drug therapies. Evaluated compound efficacy against targeted cancer protein using western blot, in-cell western and cell proliferation assays. Generated KO cell line models using CAS9 to investigate mechanism of anti-cancer compounds.
Successfully produced stable cell lines expressing various oncogenes (ex. FGFR, EGFR, HER and RET) using lentivirus transduction and piggbac technology. Handled multiple cell lines for cell line development including NIH3T3, HEK293T, BaF3 and multiple NCI and AML cell lines. Proficiently generated, concentrated and determined physical titer of lentiviruses used for stable cell line generation and calculated functional titer using qPCR. Expertly performed limiting dilutions and FACS to produce monoclonal cell lines. Regularly communicated project progression and presented data for clients over Zoom. Trained/supervised research associates to perform various techniques including mammalian cell culture, qPCR and western blotting. Generated SOPs in Cell Line Development group which aided on boarding process of research assistants/associates.
Investigated the mechanism of a novel inhibitor of TNF𝛼-induced NF-𝜅B activation, MC163, encoded by the Molluscum Contagiosum Virus. Maintained several mammalian cell lines including HEK 293T, HeLa and RAW 267. Performed ectopic/transient expression of viral and host cell proteins to mammalian cell lines. Measured activity of NF-𝜅B and IFN-𝛽 using a dual reporter luciferase assay. Elucidated protein-protein binding partners through immunoprecipitation experimentation. Analyzed cells for key apoptosis events using confocal microscopy. Successfully trained incoming graduate and undergraduate for the above techniques. Presented research at ASV and ASM conferences though oral or poster presentations. Taught laboratory sections for General Biology and Cell Biology courses under the Department of Biological Sciences.
Supported the Product Safety group in providing thorough human and environmental hazard evaluations and health risks assessments for Surface Care, Germ Protection, Medicinal and Personal Care products marketed globally. Communicated with R&D chemists globally on new and existing formulations in regards to generating safety assessment documentation (Product Safety Reports, Product Classification Files and Poison Control Center Information). Reviewed and assessed formulas and available animal in-vivo/in-vitro data under the appropriate EU/EC Directives/Guidelines (DPD, Detergent Directive, Cosmetic Directive, BPD and EU-GHS), US regulations (EPA, FDA and CPSC), Canadian (CCCR) and ASEAN Cosmetics. Ensured Precautionary and First Aid language Surface Care & Germ Protection product labels and packaging is appropriate and meets statutory requirements. Evaluated appropriate human clinical, in-vitro, and analytical studies to support product claims. Conducted assessments to ensure products meet California’s Proposition 65 requirements. Confirmed compliance with internal Regulatory Safety & Environmental policy, guidelines and procedures. Provided technical support to respond to consumer and legal inquiries concerning technical, safety and environmental issues for global RB products.