Research professional skilled in histology, immunohistochemistry, and laboratory management. Led comprehensive research projects, employing analytical skills and innovative methodologies to achieve impactful outcomes. Collaborated with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality results that align with strategic initiatives.
Overview
1
1
Certification
5
5
years of professional experience
Work History
Lead Research Specialist
Emory National Primate Research Center
Atlanta, GA
04.2021 - 12.2025
Conducted research and statistical analysis on Parkinson’s Disease development and treatment as a member of Dr. Stella Papa's lab;
Conducted research and statistical analysis investigating seizure onset and propagation patterns as a member of Dr. Annaelle Devergnas’s lab;
Led experiments on rats and primates in vivo and in vitro using methods such as histological processing (slicing, mounting, staining, etc.), immunohistochemistry, electrophysiology, behavioral testing, and fiber photometry;
Performed histological procedures extensively, including tissue collection, fixation, and processing;
Carried out surgical procedures including craniotomy, implants, and intracranial virus injection;
Managed lab operations, overseeing basic maintenance duties and regulatory tasks;
Led research initiatives to evaluate primate models for human disease studies;
Developed and optimized experimental protocols for behavioral and physiological assessments;
Mentored junior researchers in data analysis techniques and research methodologies;
Collaborated with cross-functional teams to align project goals and enhance outcomes;
Managed multiple projects simultaneously while adhering to strict deadlines, ensuring timely delivery without compromising quality;
Conducted in-depth data analysis and adapted work process and methods based on findings and literature review with limited supervision;
Ensured project adherence to biosafety protocols and standardization of data collection;
Research Internship
Georgia Institute of Technology
Atlanta, GA
01.2019 - 05.2019
Completed a Vertically Integrated Project course at Georgia Institute of Technology
Contributed to Bee-Snap Team collecting and analyzing data on bee-flower interactions across Georgia Tech campus to enhance understanding of pollinator health
Developed artificial nests and coded systems within Artificial Nest subteam to gather data on native pollinator behavior
Research Internship
University of Georgia
Athens, GA
06.2015 - 07.2015
Collaborated with Dr. George Boyhan in the Department of Horticulture on research projects
Studied the efficacy of inoculation methods for the Zucchini Yellow Mosaic Virus on squash plants
Presented Results at the Young Scholars Pre-Collegiate Research Conference
Education
Bachelor of Science - Neuroscience
Georgia Institute of Technology
Atlanta, GA
12-2020
Skills
Behavioral and pharmacological studies with rats and primates
Immunohistochemistry, western blot, spectrophotometry, assays
Tissue handling, staining, mounting, and slicing (microtome)
Performing rat/primate surgery (craniotomy, implant surgery, viral injection)
Electrophysiological techniques
Fiber photometry
Optogenetics
Cell imaging
Experimental design
Data entry, management, and analysis
Research project leadership
Record-keeping, organization, and inventory management
Protocol and compliance management
Creative problem solving
Certification
Scientist in Histotechnology (HTL) | ASCP, July 2026- July 2029
Publications
Kochoian, B. A., Bure, C., & Papa, S. M. (2023). Targeting Striatal Glutamate and Phosphodiesterases to Control L-DOPA-Induced Dyskinesia. Cells, 12(23), 2754.
Yabumoto, T., Kochoian, B. A., Coletta, S., Laur, O., Huang, X., Bure, C. A., Ware, C., Jin, P., Traynelis, S. F., & Papa, S. M. (2025). Striatal GluN2A gene suppression reduces L-DOPA-induced abnormal involuntary movements in parkinsonian rats. Neuropharmacology, 279, 110616.
Kochoian, B. A., Coletta, S., Shi, H., Bure, C., Onrust, R., Gaitanaris, G., Demopulos, G., & Papa, S. M. (2025). Phosphodiesterase 7 inhibition reduces L-DOPA-induced dyskinesias in parkinsonian nonhuman primates. The Journal of pharmacology and experimental therapeutics, 392(12), 103760.
In progress: Kochoian, B. A., Coletta, S., Zegger C., Bure C., Ware C., & Papa, S. M. (TBA). Alterations in the Activity of Striatal Projection Neurons in Response to Selective Phosphodiesterase Inihibitors in Parkinsonian Rats.
George E. Boyhan, Suzanne P. Stone, Cassandra A. Bure (2017). Evaluation of inoculation techniques of ZYMV with a susceptible squash variety. Journal of Applied Horticulture, 19(2), 159-162.