Marina A. Smoak
El Paso,TX
Summary
PhD candidate in Behavioral Neuroscience with expertise in scientific research, imaging technologies, and data interpretation, combined with a strong aptitude for relationship-building and solution-oriented communication. Skilled at translating complex scientific concepts into accessible insights for diverse audiences, and passionate about advancing life science technologies to drive discovery. Eager to contribute scientific expertise and analytical acumen to support Evident’s mission of empowering scientific discovery through innovative imaging and microscopy solutions, and ready to drive customer success.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Doctoral Research Assistant
University Of Texas At El Paso
El Paso, TX
08.2020 - Current
- Led the design and execution of neuroscience experiments using advanced imaging techniques to study brain circuitry and behavior.
- Communicated scientific findings through oral presentations, posters, and manuscripts to multidisciplinary audiences.
- Collaborated with imaging core facilities and technical representatives to optimize microscope usage and troubleshoot experimental setups, gaining insight into customer-vendor dynamics.
- Trained and mentored junior researchers in microscopy and behavioral neuroscience methods.
- Managed multiple projects and deadlines, demonstrating strong organization and prioritization skills.
- Secured competitive research funding through compelling written proposals and oral presentations.
Undergraduate Mentoring
University of Texas at El Paso
El Paso, TX
08.2018 - Current
- Assists undergraduate students with their academic, personal, and career goals by providing guidance and support.
- Designs and distributes educational materials and resources to mentees.
- Promotes a culture of inclusivity and respect within the mentee group.
Graduate Student Teaching Assistant
University of Texas at El Paso
El Paso, TX
08.2018 - 05.2022
- Delivered clear explanations of complex scientific concepts to undergraduate students across lectures and labs.
- Provided one-on-one academic support, developing communication skills applicable to client interactions in a sales context.
Medical Scribe & Chief Medical Scribe
ProScribe
El Paso, TX
05.2016 - 10.2018
- Led a team of 30+ scribes across 7 clinics, multiple departments, training new hires, and optimizing workflows.
- Served as a liaison between healthcare providers and administrative leadership, ensuring accurate documentation and provider satisfaction.
- Collaborated with physicians in real time to document patient encounters, developing keen attention to detail and fast-paced decision-making.
- Gained deep knowledge of medical devices, diagnostic procedures, and clinical environments.
Education
Ph.D. - Behavioral Neuroscience
University of Texas At El Paso
El Paso, TX12-2025
Bachelor of Science - Biomedical Sciences
University of Texas At El Paso
El Paso, TX05.2016
Skills
- Microscopy & Imaging (Light Sheet, Confocal, Fluorescence, Brightfield, In vivo Calcium Imaging [eg, GCaMP], Widefield, Miniscope)
- Imaging Software (Zen, ImageJ, Imaris)
- Data Analysis (Excel, Anaconda/Python, R, SPSS, Matlab, GraphPad, NeuroExplorer)
- Histology (Tissue Sectioning, Immunohistochemistry, Immunofluorescence)
- Neuroscience Techniques (Rodent Behavioral Assays, Stereotaxic Surgery, Electrophysiology, Viral Vector Injections)
- Effective Communication (Scientific & Technical Presentation/Writing)
- Team Collaboration (Training & Mentoring, Cross-Functional Teamwork, Relationship-building)
Professional Development
- Attended vendor workshops and demos on microscopy and imaging technologies
- Member, Society for Neuroscience
Publications & Scientific Communication
Submitted one first-author peer-reviewed publication, resubmission pending.
1. Smoak MA, Galvan KJ, Calvo DE, Powers RE, Moschak TM. Prelimbic Cortex Activity Predicts Anxiety-Like Behavior in the Elevated Plus Maze. bioRxiv [Preprint]. 2024 Dec 27:2024.12.26.630448. doi: 10.1101/2024.12.26.630448. PMID: 39763872
- Effectively communicated findings through 14 research posters at local and national neuroscience and biomedical sciences conferences (2018–2025) and invited to give departmental lecture (2024) and yearly undergraduate neuroscience lectures (2022–2025).
Service
PEER REVIEW
- Cerebral Circulation – Cognition and Behavior (2021), Journal of Comparative Neurology (2021), Brain Structure and Function (2022), Neurobiology of Learning and Memory (2024)
VOLUNTEER
- Judge for UTEP COURI Symposium for undergraduate researchers (2019–2025)
- Graduate chair for the UTEP Society for Neuroscience (SfN) Chapter (2019–2023)
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Doctoral Research Assistant
University Of Texas At El Paso
08.2020 - Current
Undergraduate Mentoring
University of Texas at El Paso
08.2018 - Current
Graduate Student Teaching Assistant
University of Texas at El Paso
08.2018 - 05.2022
Medical Scribe & Chief Medical Scribe
ProScribe
05.2016 - 10.2018
Ph.D. - Behavioral Neuroscience
University of Texas At El Paso
Bachelor of Science - Biomedical Sciences
University of Texas At El Paso
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