Dartmouth College
In my journey through academia, I've had the privilege of pursuing knowledge and contributing to my field. It all began at Florida International University, where I earned my Bachelor of Science degree in Biology with a minor in Chemistry. During my undergraduate years, I developed a fascination with understanding the intricate dynamics of plant-microbe interactions.
After completing my undergraduate studies, I took a unique path, working in the field of plant genetics at the Mars chocolate company. This experience allowed me to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical applications, providing me with a well-rounded perspective.
My academic journey then led me to Dartmouth College, where I embarked on a transformative Ph.D. within the Molecular and Cellular Biology (MCB) program, guided by the mentorship of Dr. George O'Toole. Here, I found a passion for innovation and was fortunate to be accepted into Dartmouth's Thayer School of Engineering Innovation Program. This program not only supported my research financially but also exposed me to the world of translational research, where scientific discoveries find practical applications for the betterment of society.
My involvement in the Innovation Program has been instrumental in my academic pursuits. It encourages me to develop a business plan, aiming to make my research more accessible and practical. Through this program, I've honed my skills in presenting my work to a broader audience, emphasizing its potential value to society.
Beyond my research, I've been dedicated to giving back to the community. I've had the privilege of serving on panels for minority summer research programs, where I've had the chance to inspire and guide aspiring scientists from diverse backgrounds. My commitment to education extends to teaching workshops through R Club and leading modules at the MDI Biological Laboratories in Maine, specializing in microbiome analysis and data visualization. I'm deeply passionate about nurturing the next generation of scientists and fostering a love for discovery.
Inclusivity is a value I hold dear, and I've actively contributed to promoting diversity as a minority representative on the interview panel for the MCB program. I believe that diversity in academia is essential for progress and innovation.
In my research journey, I've also ventured into patenting aspects of my thesis research, driven by my desire to push the boundaries of scientific knowledge. I'm excited about the potential impact my work could have on the scientific community and society as a whole.
My story is a testament to my curiosity, commitment to service, and my drive to bridge the gap between research and real-world solutions. I'm humbled by the opportunities I've had, and I look forward to continuing to contribute to the betterment of humanity through science.
Junior Investigator Poster Judging Time
Thursday, November 2, 2023
12:00 PM – 1:30 PM MST