EMMA PRESTON
Houston,TX
Summary
Rice University student pursuing a career in chemical engineering and biotechnology, with cancer research experience at MD Anderson Cancer Center. Interested in developing biomedical solutions while contributing to STEM education, community outreach, and initiatives that expand access to educational opportunities.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
Work History
Research Assistant
UT MD Anderson Cancer Center
Houston, USA
02.2026 - Current
- Investigate mechanisms driving neuroendocrine prostate cancer progression and development of an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment.
- Analyze human and mouse transcriptomic, proteomic, and metabolic data to identify molecular changes associated with tumor progression.
- Evaluate the effects of DDC overexpression on tumor progression and CD8+ T-cell activity.
- Contribute to research examining tumor-immune interactions and mechanisms associated with treatment resistance.
City Ambassador
US Squash Women's Committee
South Pasadena, USA
08.2023 - Current
- Coordinated outreach and promotional efforts for women-focused squash tournaments, panels, and programming reaching 200+ participants.
- Secured 5+ sponsors to support women's squash tournaments and community initiatives, including the Howe Cup.
- Managed social media campaigns highlighting women's participation and leadership, increasing visibility for athletes, tournaments, and programming.
Laboratory Assistant
Rice University
Houston, USA
09.2025 - 12.2025
- Maintain laboratory equipment, materials, and workspaces to support efficient and organized research operations.
- Prepare laboratory spaces and materials for ongoing experiments while following established laboratory procedures.
- Support researchers with day-to-day laboratory operations in a collaborative university research environment.
Assistant Squash Coach
PlayLA Youth Squash
08.2023 - 06.2025
- Coached 50+ children ages 6-12 in squash fundamentals, safety, teamwork, and problem-solving.
- Adapted instruction to different skill levels and learning styles while working with youth from underserved communities.
Athena Fellowship
Women in STEM
07.2024 - 08.2024
- Selected for a competitive fellowship designed to empower future female leaders in STEM through mentorship, career exploration, and professional development.
- Engaged with STEM researchers and professionals through sessions on computational biology, medicine, artificial intelligence, engineering, chemistry, and other interdisciplinary fields.
- Developed research, communication, and leadership skills through skill-development workshops, career panels, mentorship sessions, and collaborative programming with fellow STEM students.
Education
Bachelor of Science -
Rice University
Houston, TX05.2029
High School Diploma -
South Pasadena High School
South Pasadena, CA06.2025
Skills
- Python
- Fusion 360
- CAD
- Experimental design
- Cancer and molecular biology
- Wet lab
- Mouse modeling
- Microsoft Office
- Google Workspace
- Technical communication
- Team leadership
- Problem-solving
- Verbal and written communication
Awards
- YKK-RJK Scholarship in Biological Sciences
- Rotary Club Susan Foster Community Involvement Scholarship
- US Squash Scholar-Athlete Award
- Girl Scout Gold Award
- National Merit Commended Student
- AP Scholar with Honors
Timeline
Research Assistant
UT MD Anderson Cancer Center
02.2026 - Current
Laboratory Assistant
Rice University
09.2025 - 12.2025
Athena Fellowship
Women in STEM
07.2024 - 08.2024
City Ambassador
US Squash Women's Committee
08.2023 - Current
Assistant Squash Coach
PlayLA Youth Squash
08.2023 - 06.2025
Bachelor of Science -
Rice University
High School Diploma -
South Pasadena High School