Vivian Monteiro
Houston,TX
Summary
Research Interests:
Systems biology • Cancer immunology • Microbiome–host interactions • Biodegradable plastics
Overview
1
1
Certification
Work History
Intern
Memorial Hermann HLA Lab
06.2025 - 07.2025
- Observed histocompatibility (HLA) testing supporting clinical transplant evaluations
- Performed manual and automated DNA extraction following strict laboratory protocols
- Utilized micropipettes with precision to prepare and handle biological samples
Intern
Prolato Clinical Research Center
06.2025 - 07.2025
- Supported clinical research operations, gaining exposure to trial workflow and regulatory processes
- Processed blood samples using centrifugation, separating plasma from cellular components
- Developed understanding of the phases of clinical research and patient-centered data collection
Education
IB Diploma Candidate
The Awty International School
05.2027
undefined
The Village School
05.2025
Biotechnology for the 21st Century
UChicago Summer Session
07.2024
Skills
- Leadership: Team coordination, volunteer management, adaptive problem solving
- Science & Design: Biological literacy, materials exploration, iterative prototyping
- Global Perspective: Third-culture background with long-term international experience
- Equity & Impact: Focus on access to health, hygiene, and essential resources
- Laboratory Techniques: PCR, gel electrophoresis, DNA extraction, serial dilutions, centrifugation, micropipetting
- Technical Skills: Java (basic), Excel (data organization), laboratory documentation
- Languages: English (native), Spanish (fluent), Portuguese (fluent), German (beginner)
Accomplishments
Extracurricular Activities
President, Biotechnology Club August, 2025 – present
- Leading an environmental health project investigating potential carcinogen exposure through soil and water sampling in Houston’s Fifth Ward
- Organizing community outreach to increase awareness of environmental cancer risks
Co-Leader, Neurokit Project August, 2025 – present
- Designing assistive NeuroKits for children with ADHD, autism, and motor disorders
- Integrating neuroscience, psychology, and user-centered design to improve accessibility
Apprentice, Awty MakerSpace August, 2025 – present
- Applied the engineering design cycle to prototype and refine tools through iterative testing
- Integrated user needs, materials, and design constraints to develop practical solutions using systems-based thinking
Organization Committee Member, ICurea Foundation August, 2024 – present
- Organized and distributed donated supplies to support families and seniors in need
- Coordinated volunteer logistics and personally checked in 350+ participants during large-scale community service events
- Led teams by solving problems calmly and adapting plans in high-pressure situations
Long Term Member, Science Honors Society May, 2023 – present
- Delivered science presentations for middle school students to promote early STEM engagement
Eco-Delegate, Environmental Team August, 2025 – present
- Applying systems-based thinking to environmental and biological challenges
- Collaborating with peers and faculty to implement long-term solutions
Secretary, Diversity Club August, 2023 – May, 2025
- Presented at a peer talk for Nord Anglia World Children’s Day in collaboration with UNICEF
- Planned educational events for elementary students promoting inclusion and cross-cultural understanding
Certification
- OSHA 10-Hour General Industry (Healthcare) Course (2025)
- Good Clinical Practice Course — NIDA Clinical Trials Network (2025)
- General Medical Science Course (2025)
- Understanding HIPAA - Privacy and Security - MHU Online (2025)
Timeline
Intern
Memorial Hermann HLA Lab
06.2025 - 07.2025
Intern
Prolato Clinical Research Center
06.2025 - 07.2025
undefined
The Village School
IB Diploma Candidate
The Awty International School
Biotechnology for the 21st Century
UChicago Summer Session
Awards
- AP® Scholar with Honor Award (July, 2025)
- World Health Research and Medical Terminology Excellence Award (May, 2025)
- Health Science Commitment Award (May, 2025)
- Chemistry Excellence Award (May, 2024)
- Geometry Honors Commitment Award (May, 2024)
- Most Outstanding Project in Clean Energy at LatinThinks Conference (May, 2022)