Alexa Montoya, PhD.
Summary
Research Scientist with over a decade of experience in molecular and cellular biology, with extensive experience in detailed research and experimental design. Skilled in confocal imaging, drug screening, bioluminescence, and data analysis, with a proven track record in teaching and research that enhances academic and practical understanding. Passionate about pioneering research that drives scientific advancement and practical application in health sciences.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Business Owner
The Therapeutic Yogi
11.2017 - Current
- During my graduate studies, I gained a deeper understanding of the harmful chemicals present in everyday products, from skincare to aromatherapy. In 2018, I started experimenting with chemical formulating and over the years I have transformed my academic insights into a thriving business, bridging the gap between scientific understanding and consumer-friendly product development.
Research Dissertation
University of Texas at El Paso
05.2020 - 12.2023
- I wrote an 82-page dissertation titled 'Repositioning Propranolol to Block Mitogenic Signaling in Breast Cancer', which focused on the molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways targeted by repurposed drugs in breast cancer treatment
- Included data from two window-of-opportunity case studies, featuring patients with stage I, hormone-positive, HER2-negative ductal carcinoma and stage III, hormone-positive, HER2-negative lobular carcinoma
Teaching Assistant
University of Texas at El Paso
01.2018 - 12.2023
- I have taught a variety of subjects, including Biology, Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Genetics, Molecular Cell Biology, Microbiology, and Immunology.
- Helped provide individualized support to students, addressing diverse learning needs and promoting academic success in challenging biological courses.
Medical Research Tech
Texas Tech Health Sciences Center El Paso
04.2016 - 01.2017
- Investigated β-Adrenergic Receptor in Breast Cancer, focusing on progression and apoptosis mechanisms. Conducted rigorous experiment and data analysis.
RISE Research Scholar
University of Texas at El Paso
08.2014 - 06.2015
- Conducted in- depth research on G-protein signaling and their impact on the cytoskeleton during neurodegeneration, enhancing understanding of cellular mechanism.
RISE Research Scholar
El Paso Community College
08.2012 - 05.2013
- Examined the concentrations of As, Cd, and Pb in the soils of areas in Zacatecas, Mexico using ICP-OES
Education
Ph.D. - Biological Sciences
The University of Texas At El Paso
El Paso, TX12-2023
Bachelor of Science - Molecular And Cellular Biochemistry
The University of Texas At El Paso
El Paso, TX05-2015
Skills
Screening and Imaging: Immunohistochemistry, Flow Cytometer, Immunofluorescent Confocal Imaging, Bioluminescence Luciferase, ELISA, IN Cell 2000 Analyzer, Pico Imaging System, some experience with spectrophotometers
Molecular and Cell Biology: Sterile/ aseptic technique, Culturing adherent and suspension mammalian cell lines, and tissue samples (breast cancer tumors), cell counting and plating, cytokine analysis, gel electrophoresis, DNA, protein, and antibody analysis
Microbiology: media preparation and sterilization, autoclaving, preparation of antibiotic agar plates, inoculating, streak plate technique, culturing of micro-organisms, serial dilutions
Publications
Oncotarget Journal 2017
Use of non-selective β-blockers is associated with decreased tumor proliferative indices in early-stage breast cancer; doi:10.18632/oncotarget.14119
Biomedical Journal 2019
The beta-adrenergic receptor antagonist propranolol alters mitogenic and apoptotic signaling in late-stage breast cancer; doi:10.1016/j.bj.2019.02.003
Timeline
Research Dissertation
University of Texas at El Paso
05.2020 - 12.2023
Teaching Assistant
University of Texas at El Paso
01.2018 - 12.2023
Business Owner
The Therapeutic Yogi
11.2017 - Current
Medical Research Tech
Texas Tech Health Sciences Center El Paso
04.2016 - 01.2017
RISE Research Scholar
University of Texas at El Paso
08.2014 - 06.2015
RISE Research Scholar
El Paso Community College
08.2012 - 05.2013
Ph.D. - Biological Sciences
The University of Texas At El Paso
Bachelor of Science - Molecular And Cellular Biochemistry
The University of Texas At El Paso