Synthetic biology company specializing in high-throughput protein expression for bio-discovery and functional genomics.

• Spearheaded the technology platform’s biochemistry and automation R&D, enabling quarter-over-quarter doubling of experimental throughput.

• Inventor on 6 patent applications (2 published).

• Led cross-organization teams in execution of grants/contracts/collaborative research for commercial, government, and academic stakeholders totaling >$1.5M revenue.

• Learned Python and the Pandas library in free time outside of work for bulk experimental data processing and analysis.

• Designed, tested, and deployed robust SOPs for automation, platform operation, and commercial applications and trained other team members to take over segments of platform operation.

• Spearheaded execution of crucial pilot contracts with commercial partners that have formed the basis for the company’s current business model.

• Learned Python and the Pandas library in free time outside of work for bulk experimental data processing and analysis.

• Assisted in designing and deploying internal data infrastructure for managing high-throughput experimental data.

• Represented the company at biotech and synthetic biology conferences around the world, including co-hosting an overbooked, standing-room-only seminar at SynBioBeta 2018.

• Joined the Murray Lab to commercialize cell-free protein expression technology.

• Pioneered 100-fold reduction in base platform reagent cost without sacrificing genetic circuit prototyping capabilities and other key performance parameters.

• Demonstrated sufficient technology improvement (cost, genetic circuit fidelity, repeatability/robustness) to secure additional DARPA funding to spin out as Synvitrobio, Inc. (DBA Tierra Biosciences) after 6 months.

Lippard Research Group, MIT Department of Chemistry

• Executed and assisted in characterization/functional studies of phenanthriplatin, a novel platinum anticancer agent.

• Set up crystallization trials for phenanthriplatin-DNA conjugates to study binding interactions.

• Maintained human tumor cell lines and evaluated effect of drug combinations via MTT assay for synergism.

• Investigated transcription-inhibitory effects of platinum-based drugs by transfection with Gaussia luciferase expression vector-platinum drug adducts

• Purified drug-conjugated vector by gel extraction, phenol-chloroform extraction, isopycnic centrifugation

• Studied apoptotic effects of phenanthriplatin via JC-1 fluorescence microscopy

• Assisted researchers in Dr. Wei Li's research group in studying heat-shock-protein-90a, which was shown to greatly promote wound healing.

• Produced recombinant Hsp90a via pET expression system.

• Purified protein via nickel affinity chromatography, FPLC, gel electrophoresis.