Education

University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, 2003-2006.

• Master of Science in Microbiology
• MS Thesis titled: “Impact of Tropical Plants on Microbial Activity and Diversity in Soil Contaminated with Petroleum Hydrocarbons”

• B.S. in Biology with specialization in Microbiology and Parasitology.
• Coursework include classes in Calculus, Physics, Organic Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biostatistics; and several courses in Microbiology.
• Undergraduate Thesis titled: “Isolation and Characterization of Actinomycetes from Adiantum sp. in the Barro Colorado Island” (A+)

• English as a Second Language Course (Outstanding Completion)

Computer Skills

Completed computer course obtaining the title of Systems Technician. Experience using both PC and Macintosh computers with various applications.

Personal Skills/Interests

• Native Spanish speaker.
• Participated as expositor in several environmental conservation and microbiology seminars.
• Black belt in Hapkido (Martial Arts).
• Certified scuba diver.

Present: Junior Researcher, University of Hawai'i at Manoa, Honolulu, HI.

• Manage a molecular systematics research project in Erythrina Gall Wasps
• Supervise students in other projects
• Maintain laboratory aseptic conditions and to University standards

2005 - 2006: Student Assistant, University of Hawai'i at Manoa, Honolulu, HI.

• Manage a molecular systematics research in the evolution of peripheral populations of endemic moths from central California

2003 - 2005: Graduate Teaching Assistant, University of Hawai'i at Manoa, Honolulu, HI.

• Microbiology Lab teacher for undergraduate students
• Prepared cultures and materials necessary for class experiments
• Lectured students in basic microbiology concepts and evaluated students in their performance

2002 - 2004: Histotechnician, Straub Clinic & Hospital, Honolulu, HI.

• Prepared on-site slides for the examination of skin cancer cells during MOHS procedure.
• Processed tissue specimens collected from the OR for microscopy.
• Prepared reagents and stains necessary for tissue processing.
• In charge of maintaining all equipment (cryostat, microscope, cameras, etc.) and perform troubleshooting and minor repairs.
• Maintained laboratory settings to OSHA and CLIA standards and leaded the dermatology clinic through the inspections.
• Organized filing system of blocks and slides for the new department's pathologist.
• Photographed patient's procedures when necessary and trained nurses in the proper use of the digital camera.
• Regularly updated the database of MOHS patients and of the photographs for the dermatology clinic

Dec. 2001 - Feb. 2002: Aquaculturist, Moana Technologies, LLC., Aiea, HI.

• Assisted in the culture of marine shrimp in a biosecure commercial facility
• Maintained different microalgae cultures

1999 - 2000: Research Technician, The Oceanic Institute, Waimanalo, HI.

• Maintained the hatchery and maturation of marine shrimp in a biosecure research facility.
• Developed pure cultures of different microalgae.
• Responsible of the inventory and purchasing of supplies.
• Prepared shrimp tissue for further histology and PCR processes.
• Conducted several side experiments to develop new shrimp larval feeds with the help of other staff members.

1997 - 1998: Internship, Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Rep. of Panama.

• Worked within a research group in a bioprospecting projects, isolating bacteria and fungi from the environment.