Laura Amaya
Summary
Dedicated and accomplished researcher with a comprehensive expertise in molecular biology, genomics, and immunology, possessing a strong combination of hands-on laboratory experience and proficiency in data analysis. Detail-oriented and methodical professional, with collaborative spirit and ability to work seamlessly within multidisciplinary teams.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Ph.D. Candidate
Howard Chang Laboratory, Stanford University
08.2018 - Current
- Engineered circular RNA constructs to enhance translational efficiency.
- Developed an innovative immunization approach harnessing the multivalent translation potential of circular RNAs.
- Explored circular RNA uptake mechanisms and biodistribution patterns.
- Characterized the epigenetic landscape and essential transcriptional regulators governing human antigen-specific Tr1 cells through the integration of single-cell RNA sequencing, ATAC-seq, and TCR-seq data.
- Optimized in vivo mRNA delivery by fine-tuning tropism using a novel class of lipid nanoparticles.
Rotation Student
Nakauchi Lab / Bendall Lab, Stanford University
09.2017 - 07.2018
- Engineered a lentiviral-based platform enabling precise neoantigen-specific TCR expression on primary CD8 T cells.
- Conducted a comprehensive CRISPRi perturbation screen in Jurkat cells to elucidate the impact of key regulatory factors on T cell activation and exhaustion.
- Constructed an integrated map detailing T cell development within the human bone marrow and thymus, leveraging the power of CyTOF technology.
Research Assistant
Roncarolo / Bacchetta Lab, Stanford University
02.2016 - 07.2017
- Employed multiplexed mass cytometry to profile CD4+ T cell subsets in both healthy donors and patient samples exhibiting distinct immune dysregulations.
- Spearheaded the multivariate data analysis of an international study centered on individuals diagnosed with IPEX syndrome.
- Developed an online application customized for the analysis of FCS files, streamlining meta cluster analysis and featuring visualizations such as Minimum Spanning Trees (MST), Principal Component Analysis (PCA), and differential phenotypic expression assessments.
- Established an analysis pipeline for the comprehensive compilation and annotation of diverse immune phenotypes within T helper and T regulatory cell populations using mass cytometry data.
Protein Engineering Intern
Distributed Bio
09.2015 - 12.2015
- Employed Ig/TCR clonality testing as a diagnostic approach for lymphoid malignancies.
- Utilized bioinformatic tools to probe the immune repertoire of cancerous cells, quantifying clonal expansion and VDJ recombination events.
- Developed and purified His-tagged recombinant human antibodies of medical significance using a batch processing method.
Protein Chemistry Intern
LakePharma
04.2015 - 08.2015
- Optimized recombinant protein production, enhancing yields in both bacterial and yeast expression systems.
- Conducted mammalian protein purification utilizing an IgG-CH1 affinity matrix, alongside bacterial protein purification through IMAC (Immobilized Metal Affinity Chromatography).
Standard Reference Materials Analyst
National Metrology Center (CENAM)
09.2012 - 11.2013
- Implemented microwave and open acid digestion procedures for various specimens, including fluid milk, tomato, avocado, and honey.
- Conducted precise measurements to evaluate homogeneity and certify mineral composition (specifically, Na, K, Ca, and Mg) using HPLC and ICP-MS.
Education
Ph.D. - Stem Cell Biology And Regenerative Medicine
Stanford University
Stanford, CA12.2023
Master of Science - Biotechnology
University of San Francisco
San Francisco, CA05.2016
Bachelor of Science - Biotechnology
Monterrey Institute of Technology And Science Educ
Queretaro, Mexico12.2012
Skills
- Laboratory Techniques: Proficient in a wide range of laboratory techniques, including CRISPR perturbation screening, flow cytometry, mass cytometry, cell culture and transfection, as well as mouse handling
- Molecular Biology: Skilled in various molecular biology tasks such as DNA extraction, in vitro transcription of RNA, genetic engineering, and library preparation and sequencing
- Bioinformatics and Data Analysis: Proficient in the analysis and interpretation of complex biological data sets, including multivariate data analysis and multi-omics data, utilizing tools such as R, Python, and command line interfaces for various software packages
- Scientific Communication: Effective communication skills demonstrated through the presentation of research findings via posters and talks
- Teaching and Mentoring: Experience in teaching and mentoring roles, including curriculum design, creation and translation of scientific content
- Collaboration and Teamwork: Proven ability to work harmoniously within multidisciplinary research teams, collaborating with scientists, technicians, and researchers of diverse backgrounds and expertise
Timeline
Ph.D. Candidate
Howard Chang Laboratory, Stanford University
08.2018 - Current
Rotation Student
Nakauchi Lab / Bendall Lab, Stanford University
09.2017 - 07.2018
Research Assistant
Roncarolo / Bacchetta Lab, Stanford University
02.2016 - 07.2017
Protein Engineering Intern
Distributed Bio
09.2015 - 12.2015
Protein Chemistry Intern
LakePharma
04.2015 - 08.2015
Standard Reference Materials Analyst
National Metrology Center (CENAM)
09.2012 - 11.2013
Ph.D. - Stem Cell Biology And Regenerative Medicine
Stanford University
Master of Science - Biotechnology
University of San Francisco
Bachelor of Science - Biotechnology
Monterrey Institute of Technology And Science Educ
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