Open To Work
Verified
This profile is verified using an email address.
PEDRO VILLA
New York,USA
Summary
PhD Scientist with expertise in molecular biology, assay development, and translational research across preclinical and cellular systems. Experienced in designing and optimizing quantitative workflows for protein and nucleic acid analysis using ELISA, qPCR, and proteomic approaches. Strong background in in vivo and in vitro models, experimental troubleshooting, data analysis, and cross-functional collaboration. Proven ability to generate reproducible datasets and translate complex biology into actionable scientific insights.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
Work History
Postdoctoral Associate
The Rockefeller University
New York, USA
01.2024 - Current
- Developed multi-omics workflows integrating RNA-seq, CLIP, and proteomic approaches for pathway and target analysis
- Developed AAV-based molecular labeling systems for targeted biomolecule capture in neuronal models, enhancing understanding of cellular mechanisms
- Designed antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) strategies demonstrating dose-dependent biological activity in human and murine disease models
- Designed and executed molecular biology studies across preclinical in vitro and in vivo systems to investigate disease-relevant signaling pathways
- Optimized enrichment and immunoprecipitation workflows for RNA and protein target detection
- Managed complex datasets, facilitating communication of findings to multidisciplinary collaborators, improving collaborative research outcomes
- Trained students and researchers in experimental design and quantitative data analysis, fostering skill development and research competency
Doctoral Researcher
University of California, Riverside
Riverside, USA
01.2020 - 01.2024
- Designed and executed rodent studies to elucidate metabolic and reproductive signaling pathways in disease-relevant models
- Developed and optimized ELISA assays for precise quantification of circulating biomarkers in plasma and blood matrices
- Performed multiplex Luminex assays enabling simultaneous quantification of multiple proteins
- Integrated physiological, biochemical, and molecular datasets to support biological conclusions
- Performed blinded validation, replicate testing, and reproducibility analysis
- Generated quantitative standard curves using 4-parameter logistic regression analysis
- Standardized protocols and trained laboratory personnel in assay workflows and data analysis
Education
Ph.D. - Biomedical Sciences
University of California, Riverside
Riverside, CA01-2024
B.S. - Biochemistry
University of California, Riverside
Riverside, CA01-2013
Skills
- Assay development and bioanalysis
- Assay optimization
- Validation and reproducibility
- Immunoprecipitation techniques
- ELISA and Luminex
- qPCR and RT-PCR
- Molecular biology methods
- RNA-seq and CLIP-seq
- Western blotting
- RNA and DNA extraction
- Gene editing
- Viral vector applications (AAV, lentivirus)
- Experimental systems design
- Rodent model studies
- Human and murine cell lines
- Primary neuron culture techniques
- In vivo pharmacology studies
- Tissue collection methods
- Statistical analysis expertise
- GraphPad Prism software proficiency
- R programming skills
- MaxQuant and Perseus usage
- Data visualization techniques
Publications
Selected first-author publications in Journal of Neuroscience and Frontiers in Endocrinology.
Full list: ORCID link: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5245-4130
Villa PA et al. Obesity Alters POMC and Kisspeptin Neuron Cross Talk Leading to Reduced Luteinizing Hormone in Male Mice. Journal of Neuroscience. 2024.
Villa PA et al. Altered GnRH neuron and ovarian innervation characterize reproductive dysfunction linked to the Fmr1 gene mutation. Frontiers in Endocrinology. 2023.
Technical Experience
- Bioanalytical: ELISA, Luminex, biological matrices, validation, quantitative assays
- Molecular: qPCR, sequencing, immunoprecipitation, cloning, Western blot
- Preclinical: Rodent handling, stereotaxic surgery, ICV dosing, tissue collection
- Therapeutics: ASO screening, AAV systems, dose-response studies
- Software: Prism, R, MaxQuant, Perseus
Personal Information
Relocation: Southern California Preferred
Timeline
Postdoctoral Associate
The Rockefeller University
01.2024 - Current
Doctoral Researcher
University of California, Riverside
01.2020 - 01.2024
Ph.D. - Biomedical Sciences
University of California, Riverside
B.S. - Biochemistry
University of California, Riverside