Krystal Michoma
Amherst,MA
Summary
Detail-oriented undergraduate researcher with experience in immunology, inflammatory signaling, and translational research methods. Has worked on mast-cell and T-cell related immune assays, cytokine and histamine quantification, and mechanistic studies of bioactive compounds, while also developing oncology-focused knowledge through research on triple-negative breast cancer signaling, metastasis and immunotherapeutic strategies. Offers a strong foundation in wet-lab techniques, scientific writing, data analysis and pathway-based interpretation, with a clear interest in cancer immunology and translational oncology.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Immunology Lab Research Assistant
University of Massachusetts Amherst
Amherst, MA
01.2025 - Current
- Analyze cellular interactions and pathways affected by the bioactive compound, quercetin to elucidate its effects on mast-cell degranulation and inflammatory responses.
- Analyze pro-inflammatory cytokine release through activation assays on cultured peritoneal mast cells and Jurkat T cells.
- Analyze the effects of whole-extract and isolated-compound components to assess its synergistic potential at the molecular level.
- Perform exploratory assays on T-cell activation and implement a topical psoriasis-like mouse model to broaden insights into immune pathway mechanisms, in-vivo.
- Managed all phases of immunology research project, including data collection, analysis and reporting.
Triple Negative Breast Cancer Project Lead
University of Massachusetts Amherst
Amherst, MA
02.2025 - 05.2025
- Conducted comprehensive analysis of Wnt/PI3K signaling pathways to design targeted therapeutic strategies for triple-negative breast cancer, emphasizing mutant p53, PARP inhibition, and apoptotic reactivation.
- Explored the roles of epithelial-mesenchymal transition and extracellular matrix remodeling in metastasis, recommending comprehensive approaches to mitigate spread.
- Investigated various immunotherapy alternatives, focusing on checkpoint inhibitors and their impact on T-cell activation and tumor microenvironment dynamics.
- Refined ability to assess molecular pathways, construct mechanistic intervention strategies, and evaluate primary cancer genetics literature.
- Oversaw research project management to ensure timely completion and adherence to objectives.
Optimizing Personalized Medicine Model
University of Massachusetts Amherst
Amherst, MA
01.2024 - 05.2024
- Conducted comprehensive analysis of social determinants of health (SDOH) to assess their impact on clinical outcomes in diabetes management.
- Conducted multivariate linear regression analysis to identify relationships between demographic variables and differences in hospital time diagnosis rates and patient readmission statistics.
- Interpreted data on patient journeys to assess and address inequities within diabetes care systems.
- ICons Integrative Research Program Year 2 UMass Amherst
Medical Mistrust in the Healthcare System
University of Massachusetts Amherst
Amherst, MA
01.2023 - 05.2023
- Performed in-depth qualitative and quantitative analysis on medical mistrust in healthcare systems, focusing on a defined sample size.
- Interviewed diverse stakeholders, including university clinicians, a Tufts PI studying Black maternal health, and a clinical trial manager in the pharmaceutical industry.
- Conducted survey design and distribution to gather insights on personal and perceived trust in healthcare among college students and interview participants.
- Achieved effective communication of research findings in weekly lab meetings. Contributed to successful end-of-semester poster presentation through collaborative efforts.
- ICons Integrative Research Program Year 1 UMass Amherst
Associate Concertmaster
UMass Symphony Orchestra
Amherst, MA
08.2022 - Current
- Serve as Associate Concertmaster, assisting the Concertmaster in leading the first violin section, shaping bowings, and guiding ensemble cohesion during rehearsals and performances.
- Perform regularly with the UMass Symphony Orchestra in major concert programs on campus and in the Amherst community.
Chamber Ensemble Violinist
UMass Amherst Chamber Music Program
Amherst, MA
08.2022 - Current
- Participate in faculty-coached chamber ensembles with weekly coaching sessions and twice-weekly group rehearsals.
- Rotate between leading and supporting roles (first/second violin), developing ensemble communication, score analysis skills, and collaborative musicianship.
- Perform frequently in public concerts across campus and the Amherst area, presenting a wide range of chamber repertoire.
Solo Violinist
University of Massachusetts Amherst
Amherst, MA
01.2012 - Current
- Study violin performance under weekly one-on-one instruction with faculty violin professor and collaborate regularly with departmental collaborative pianists.
- Receive and apply continuous feedback from faculty and peers in studio classes, rehearsal settings, and independent practice to refine technique, musicality, and interpretive skill.
- Prepare solo repertoire for recitals, juries, and competitions, demonstrating strong discipline, artistic development, and performance readiness.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Minor Violin Performance
University of Massachusetts Amherst
Amherst, MA05-2026
Skills
- Experimental design
- Systematic troubleshooting
- Scientific writing
- Literature review
- Data analysis
- Data interpretation
- Project coordination
- Collaboration in research teams
- Leadership in musical ensembles
- Public speaking
- Poster creation
- Time management
- Adaptability across interdisciplinary settings
- Language (Professional working proficiency French and Swahili)
Certification
- Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA), National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
- Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification, American Heart Association (AHA)
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
Swahili
Native or Bilingual
French
Limited Working
Timeline
Triple Negative Breast Cancer Project Lead
University of Massachusetts Amherst
02.2025 - 05.2025
Immunology Lab Research Assistant
University of Massachusetts Amherst
01.2025 - Current
Optimizing Personalized Medicine Model
University of Massachusetts Amherst
01.2024 - 05.2024
Medical Mistrust in the Healthcare System
University of Massachusetts Amherst
01.2023 - 05.2023
Associate Concertmaster
UMass Symphony Orchestra
08.2022 - Current
Chamber Ensemble Violinist
UMass Amherst Chamber Music Program
08.2022 - Current
Solo Violinist
University of Massachusetts Amherst
01.2012 - Current
Bachelor of Science - Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Minor Violin Performance
University of Massachusetts Amherst