Educational Background:
Postdoctoral Fellowship, Molecular Biology Princeton University
Advisor: Benjamin A. Garcia (Feb 2008-Mar 2012)
Ph.D., Chemistry (March 2007) University of California, Davis
Advisor: Carlito B. Lebrilla
B.S., Chemistry (May 1999) University of California, Berkeley

Research Interests:
Chromatin and Epigenetics

My research integrates molecular biology and bioanalytical chemistry as well as elements of genomics, systems biology and computational approaches. These are combined in a unified cross-disciplinary effort to elucidate the role of protein post-translational modifications in the decision-making and information storage mechanisms of eukaryotic biology. This emerging area of research is commonly described as epigenetics and chromatin regulation. This core but relatively unstudied biological functionality is essential to multiple areas including transcription regulation, stem cell biology, regenerative medicine, cancer biology, disease diagnostics & therapeutics, developmental biology and fundamental cellular physiology.

Bioanalytical Mass Spectrometry

The central tool that enables all of my research is bioanalytical mass spectrometry. As Director of Biology for the Ion Cyclotron Mass Spectrometry program I have the privilege of directing a variety of efforts using the most powerful bioanalytical mass spectrometers ever created. This involves the development of novel chromatographic, mass spectrometric, and bioinformatic approaches to address biological questions with unprecedented specificity.

Professional Experience:
Director of Biological Applications, Ion Cyclotron Resonance Program, National High Magnetic Field Laboratory, Florida State University (2012-present)

Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Advisor: Benjamin A. Garcia, Molecular Biology Department, Princeton University (2008-2012)

Doctoral Studies, Advisor: Carlito B. Lebrilla, Department of Chemistry, University of California, Davis (2002-2007)

Staff Scientist, Biosecurity and Nanoscience Laboratory, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA (2002-2008)

Mass Spectrometrist, Bay Bioanalytical Laboratory, Hercules, CA (1999-2002)