Grace Helms
Lafayette,IN
Summary
Associate Scientist with expertise in nanoparticle formulation and oral drug delivery. Skilled in preparing and optimizing formulation batches with diverse APIs. Currently completing an MBA in Project Management to further develop skills in team leadership, communication and workflow optimization for R&D operations.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Associate Scientist- Formulation
Toralgen
West Lafayette, Indiana
09.2024 - Current
- Prepare and optimize nanoparticle formulations using diverse APIs (including semaglutide, tirzepatide, and monoclonal antibodies) for oral delivery in PK models.
- Design and execute experiments using Design of Experiments (DOE) methodology, while maintaining compliance with Good Documentation Practices (GDP).
- Conduct tableting optimization, dissolution studies, cryoprotectant screening, and lyophilization to enhance stability and bioavailability.
- Perform dynamic light scattering (DLS) particle size characterization, and analyze results to guide formulation strategies.
- Support dose preparation (capsule filling, tableting, compounding), and preclinical PK/PD studies, including on-site dosing in swine models.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to improve laboratory processes and streamline workflows.
- Implement agile project management practices, maintaining Kanban boards, and sprint planning to align R&D milestones with company goals.
- Present experimental updates and progress in weekly team meetings with the Board of Directors, providing data-driven insights and recommendations.
- Contribute to the company’s patent committee through prior art research, and technical input on novel oral drug delivery systems.
- Review relevant scientific literature to inform experimental design, and stay current with industry advancements.
Student Lab Assistant
Dr. Shinae Park- Purdue Veterinary Hospital
West Lafayette, Indiana
05.2022 - 05.2024
- Logged patient information, analyzed experimental data, and validated results against standards using ImageJ software.
- Prepared equipment, maintained documentation, and collaborated with laboratory team members.
- Wrote detailed lab reports each semester and contributed to the forthcoming research paper on optic nerve vessel densities in canine glaucoma using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) imaging.
Animal Caretaker
VetMed- Purdue Universtity
West Lafayette, Indiana
11.2021 - 03.2022
- Monitored animal health, recorded clinical observations, and provided post-surgical care.
- Administered specialized diets and medications across multiple species.
- Optimized animal welfare by applying husbandry expertise and maintaining a safe environment.
Education
MBA - Project Management
Purdue University Global
11-2026
Bachelor of Science - Biochemistry
Purdue University
West Lafayette, IN08-2024
Skills
- Nanoparticle formulation and oral drug delivery
- Tableting and capsule optimization
- Lyophilization and cryoprotectant optimization
- Dynamic light scattering (DLS) analysis
- Preclinical studies, pharmacokinetics
- Protocol development and documentation
- Data analysis and presentation
- Agile project management
- Scientific collaboration and communication
Key Achievements
- Prepared and optimized formulation batches that contributed to a 5x increase in semaglutide bioavailability in the beagle model.
- Advanced oral nanoparticle formulations with semaglutide and monoclonal antibodies, enabling new therapeutic strategies.
- Developed daily lab checkout protocol to ensure clean, organized, and efficient operations.
- Represented the formulation team on the management committee, aligning team workflows with company milestones through agile methods.
- Conducted prior art research supporting patent development of novel oral drug delivery technologies.
Timeline
Associate Scientist- Formulation
Toralgen
09.2024 - Current
Student Lab Assistant
Dr. Shinae Park- Purdue Veterinary Hospital
05.2022 - 05.2024
Animal Caretaker
VetMed- Purdue Universtity
11.2021 - 03.2022
Bachelor of Science - Biochemistry
Purdue University
MBA - Project Management
Purdue University Global
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