Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
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Allyson C. Espinal, PhD

STREAM Facilitator & Business Owner
VALRICO,FL

Summary

Passionate STEM educator and STREAM facilitator with a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology and a deep love of science. I create hands-on, inquiry-based experiences where students become the designers—both in school and through Creative Catalyst CAMP LLC, the afterschool program I co-founded to expand access to STREAM learning. My mission is to pass on my love of biology through real-world projects that build confidence, resilience, and critical thinking

Overview

16
16
years of professional experience

Work History

Small Business Owner

Creative Catalyst CAMP LLC
05.2023 - Current
  • Developed and run STREAM afterschool and summer camp enrichment programs for students K to 8th grade.
  • Manage daily operations for a successful small business, ensuring efficient processes and quality services.
  • Advertised products and services online, social media and through traditional campaigns to target ideal consumers.
  • Evaluated sales reports and financial statements to manage cash flow and develop techniques to improve business.
  • Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Passionate about learning and committed to continual improvement.

STREAM Facilitator

Nativity Catholic School
08.2022 - Current
  • Jane Goodall-s Roots & Shoots Micro Grant Awardee, 2024-2025
  • Promoted critical thinking skills through problem-solving activities and complex assignments.
  • Integrated real-world applications into lessons, enhancing relevance and increasing student interest.
  • Developed strong relationships with students by fostering a positive and supportive learning environment.
  • Continually refined instructional practices through professional development opportunities, staying informed about current trends in STEM education.

Business Owner

Ironcast Realestate LLC
01.2017 - Current
  • Owner and co-founder of small business that invests in real estate for low-mid income renters
  • Through discipline, detailed management and passionate entrepreneurial spirit, our company continues to expand.

Doctoral Research Fellow

University At Buffalo, SUNY
01.2010 - 10.2015
  • Conducted two transdisciplinary cancer research projects in collaboration with internal and external partners, while managing multiple smaller studies.
  • Developed three novel protocols to improve the use of preserved tumor samples for molecular analysis.
  • Presented original research at 6 local, 4 national, and 2 international conferences.
  • Assisted in planning and coordinating weekly interdepartmental seminar series and laboratory meetings.
  • Led mentorship and outreach programs supporting STEM education:
  • Supervised three undergraduate practicum students on independent research projects, including data gathering, analysis, and scientific presentation.
  • Taught in the RPCI High School Cancer Research Experience, delivering lessons through both direct instruction and hands-on lab work.
  • Designed and guided student-led research investigating the relationship between two proteins and DNA methylation in breast tumors.
  • Facilitated student presentations at the Roswell Park Annual Research Retreat, helping students build confidence in scientific communication.

Education

Certificate - STREAM Coordinator

Saint Leo University
Tampa, FL
09.2025

Ph.D. - Cellular And Molecular Biology

S.U.N.Y University At Buffalo
Buffalo, NY
09.2009 - 2015.09

Bachelor of Science - Biochemistry

Daemen University
Amherst, NY
09.2005 - 2009.05

Skills

    Excellent writing skills highlighted in 3 peer-reviewed research articles published in scientific journals

    Experience teaching elementary, middle and undergraduate students

    Develops strong working relationships

    Extensive knowledge of Biology, laboratory, and computational analysis

    Business management and development

    Small business operations

    Project-based learning

    Innovative research

    Strong research skills

    Creative collaboration

Timeline

Small Business Owner

Creative Catalyst CAMP LLC
05.2023 - Current

STREAM Facilitator

Nativity Catholic School
08.2022 - Current

Business Owner

Ironcast Realestate LLC
01.2017 - Current

Doctoral Research Fellow

University At Buffalo, SUNY
01.2010 - 10.2015

Ph.D. - Cellular And Molecular Biology

S.U.N.Y University At Buffalo
09.2009 - 2015.09

Bachelor of Science - Biochemistry

Daemen University
09.2005 - 2009.05

Certificate - STREAM Coordinator

Saint Leo University
Allyson C. Espinal, PhDSTREAM Facilitator & Business Owner
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