I'm Dr. T, a dedicated scientist, educator, communicator, and an artist at heart. With over a decade of experience in groundbreaking biochemical research, effective educational methodologies, and a passion for creating, my world revolves around exploring the connections between science and art.
My academic foundation started at the University of Central Florida, where I earned a B.S. in Chemistry with a minor in Biology. The early years of my research were marked by diverse experiences, from studying the emissive dopants in spinels to understanding temperature projections' impacts on the life-history strategy of crickets.
I then ventured into more specialized territories, obtaining my Ph.D. in Chemistry with a concentration in Bioanalytical studies from the University of Akron. Here, I undertook an expansive metabolomics study, focusing on the intricate processes of demyelination and remyelination in murine models.
Post Ph.D., my journey took me to the renowned Georgetown University, where I worked as a Postdoctoral Fellow. Diving deep into tumor biology, I applied metabolomics to identify novel biomarkers post-radiation injury, simultaneously exploring potential drug protection mechanisms and new technological applications.
Currently, I find myself at the University of the District of Columbia as an Assistant Professor of Chemistry. Here, I passionately design undergraduate research projects revolving around the realms of metagenomics and metabolomics, particularly emphasizing the cellular responses to PFAS toxicity in the ambit of cancer and demyelination.
While my research speaks volumes, my heart lies in education. Over the years, I've had the privilege of designing and teaching courses ranging from General Chemistry for non-science majors to specialized Biochemistry techniques for undergraduates. My latest endeavor as the Myrtilla Minor Fellow allowed me to elevate teaching methodologies and bring innovative digital transformations to course structures.
When I'm not engrossed in research or enlightening young minds, I'm likely engaged in my other passions - science communication, and design. From crafting technical notes for the NHLBI workshops to designing illustrative content for newsletters, my aim is to bridge the gap between intricate scientific concepts and the general audience.
Beyond the structured world of research and academia, I unwind with my love for art. My hands have not only held test tubes but also paintbrushes and ceramic clay. Digital art has been a fascinating journey for me, merging the preciseness of technology with the fluidity of creativity. But there’s a special place in my heart for ceramics. Molding clay and watching it take shape, much like my research findings, brings a unique joy and sense of accomplishment. Through my art, I often find parallels with science—both requiring patience, precision, and a touch of unpredictability.
In essence, I am a combination of my experiences, skills, and passions. Whether it's unraveling complex biochemical pathways, designing an educational curriculum, creating a piece of art, or communicating science to the masses, my journey has been multifaceted and immensely rewarding. I'm thrilled you're here, and I hope you enjoy exploring the various facets of my work and endeavors. Feel free to reach out for collaborations, discussions, or simply to share the joys of science, education, and art!
Washington, DC