I bring an immunologist's perspective to the vaccine, antiviral, and virology research ongoing within the Aguilar-Carreño lab.  We have identified some of the T and B cell immune responses to novel vaccines and adjuvants against several viruses. In addition to benchwork and mouse model experiments, I help to mentor trainees and organize inter-lab and inter-institutional collaborations. Outside of lab, I enjoy weightlifting/CrossFit, hiking with my dog, and spending quality time with my family.

My project is centered on understanding how Nipah viral proteins sense and respond to changes in their immediate environment, and what these feedback loops mean in the context of membrane remodeling events central to host-pathogen interactions. I am actively involved in participating in outreach events geared toward enhancing women engagement in STEM. I enjoy translating my fascination with the world of cellular membranes into relatable sci-art, and moonlight as a food critic.

My research involves studying novel vaccination techniques for Nipah and influenza viruses. Specifically, I observe how the presentation of native proteins on virus-like particles impact the immune response to enable more effective forms of vaccination.

I am a 3rd year Ph.D. student in BBS with an emphasis in Immunology and Infectious Disease. My work primarily focuses on the structural virology of paramyxoviruses utilizing cryo-electron microscopy and high-resolution flow cytometry to analyze viral morphology and content on a single virion as well as population level. In my free time, I like to play golf, go hiking and make cocktails! 

My research is focused on a broad spectrum anti viral targeting entry of enveloped viruses as well as determines how ephrinB2 levels impact syncytia, entry, and budding of Nipah virus. 

I am a third year PhD student working on a collaborative project focused on the biochemistry and structure of matrix proteins belonging to the family Paramyxoviridae. I look forward to preparing both in-vitro assembled samples and cell culture-derived samples to examine via negative stain and cryo-electron microscopy. I find higher-order protein assembly and protein:lipid interactions very exciting. Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my pet birds and being active!

My research interest centers around vaccine and antiviral development for Coronaviruses and Paramyxoviruses. I’m also interested in understanding adaptive responses to immunization and exploring monoclonal antibody production. Outside the lab, I love hanging out with friends and watching movies

For my graduate work, I study the role of paramyxovirus-enveloped glycoproteins in virus entry into the host cells. I am fascinated by how elegantly these glycoproteins engage cell surface receptors and mediate cell-cell fusion. These studies could provide great insight into new strategies for vaccine development or discoveries of new antiviral molecules to prevent viral invasions into human cells.

Outside the lab, I enjoy spending time with my family and pets (my tuxedo cat and cocker spaniel puppy). I have many hobbies, but some are seasonal. I like to cook, do yoga, or lose myself in a good paper book. Also, I like to ski or knit in winter, while during spring, I love to work in my garden. During summer, I enjoy swimming in the natural pools and lakes, while in the fall, I like to hike new trails.

I am a first year BMCB student. I attend the Aguilar lab to explore the field of virology which is very new to me. I am very excited to be in the lab and working with experts in this area. I would like to gain novel knowledge and skills in Virology and Vaccination research.

Mentor: Madeleine Dumas

Mentor: David B

Mentor: Viraj Upadhye

Mentor: Madeleine Dumas

Mentor: Viraj Upadhye

Mentor: Ben Kaza

Mentor: Richard Adeleke

Mentor: Shahrzad

B.S. Cornell University 

B.S. Cornell University