Work with thought leaders and academic experts from University of Miami

Elena Shersher, Ph.D.

Miami
Cancer researcher at University of Miami
Experience

University of Miami

Cancer researcher / March, 2017Present

I study cell signaling mechanisms to identify the most promising molecular targets for therapeutic intervention in cancer.

Research Expertise
Cancer Research
Molecular Biology
Biochemistry
Cell Biology
Drug discovery
And 1 more
About
Elena Shersher, Ph.D. is a highly skilled and experienced biochemist with a strong background in cancer research. She received her Ph.D. in Biochemistry from Florida International University in 2016, where she was a recipient of a prestigious Presidential fellowship. After completing her Ph.D., Elena continued her career as a clinical program development lead and coordinator at a CRO. In 2017, Elena joined a cancer research team at the University of Miami as a researcher. In this role, she utilized her expertise in advanced laboratory techniques and data analysis to study the role of specific proteins in cancer cell signaling in order to identify promising molecular targets for therapeutic intervention. Elena's research has been published in several prestigious scientific journals, and she has presented her findings at numerous conferences. In addition to her research, Elena is also passionate about mentoring and teaching the next generation of scientists. She has served as a mentor and advisor to undergraduate and graduate students, helping them develop their research skills and guiding them in their academic and career paths. Elena's dedication and contributions to the field of cancer research have made her a valuable asset to the scientific community. With her expertise and experience, she continues to make significant advancements in understanding and treating cancer, bringing hope to those affected by this devastating disease.

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Samiul Amin

Professor of Practice at University of Miami Professor of Practice and Director ECAP at University of Miami with expertise in Formulation Design, Rheology, Biosurfactants, Biopolymers and Materials Science.
Experience

University of Miami

Professor of Practice / August, 2022Present

Manhattan College

Associate Professor / January, 2018July, 2022

L'Oreal USA

Assistant Vice-President / November, 2015January, 2018

Malvern Instruments Inc

Director New Technology Assessment / March, 2013November, 2015

Yet2

Technology Consulting Director / February, 2012February, 2013

Malvern Instruments Ltd

Manager Strategic Technology Group / June, 2008January, 2012

Unilever R&D Port Sunlight

Science Theme Leader & Rheologist / February, 2004May, 2008

Université de Fribourg

Postdoctoral Fellow / January, 2003January, 2004

Research Expertise
Complex Fluids
Rheology
Microrheology
Protein Aggregation
Colloid and Surface Chemistry
And 33 more
About
With over 22 years of industry and academic experience in SoftMatter, colloids, and complex fluids, I am a Professor of Practice and Director of the Engineering Corporate Affiliate Program (ECAP) at the University of Miami. My mission is to bridge the gap between engineering education/research and industry needs, and to foster a culture of creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship among students and faculty. I am also co-founder of FastFormulator a Formulation Design Lab developing novel sustainable formulations for a wide range of industries utilizing an integrated approach of High THroughput FOrmulation Automation/Advanced CHaracterization/AI-ML and based on deep colloid science/complex fluids insights. <br> As a leading researcher and consultant in formulation design and performance optimization of consumer, cosmetic, biopharmaceutical, and homecare products, I collaborate with multiple global companies and organizations to develop novel and sustainable solutions based on high throughput formulation, AI/ML, advanced characterization and novel sustainable materials. I also teach courses in polymers, surfactants, emulsions, rheology, tribology, and innovation management, and chair international conferences in my field of expertise. I am passionate about advancing the science and engineering of complex fluids and cosmetics, and sharing my knowledge and insights with the next generation of engineers and innovators.

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Carolyn Waterbury

Sanford, North Carolina, United States of America
Research contractor at the Environmental Protection Agency
Education

University of Alaska Fairbanks

MSc, Fisheries / August, 2022

Fairbanks, Alaska, United States of America

University of Miami

BSc, Marine Science and Biology / May, 2019

Coral Gables, Florida, United States of America
Experience

ORAU

National Student Service Contractor / November, 2022Present

I work with Dr. Leah Wehmas at the Environmental Protection Agency in Research Triangle Park, NC on a variety of molecular research projects. I used Partek and BMDExpress to analyze RNA-seq datasets and identify transcriptomic points of departure. This data helps to inform risk assessment on a variety of chemicals we were testing, including PFAS. Additionally, I am assisting in a kainic acid and triethyltin bromide dosing experiment with rats to determine if cerebral spinal fluid could be used as a biomarker for brain damage through analysis of specific proteins. I am responsible for daily laboratory maintenance in addition to creating and preparing all chemicals, reagents, and supplies used for research purposes.

University of Alaska Fairbanks

Graduate Research Assistant / August, 2019August, 2022

I received my M.S. in fisheries as a graduate research assistant. I was the lead researcher on a 3-month long fish sampling project in Prudhoe Bay, AK during 2020 and 2021. This project used fyke nets to quantify and qualify the fish species within the nearshore Prudhoe Bay environment in order to determine how species composition and abundance were shifting in relation to climate change. For my thesis work, I was interested in determining how acclimation temperature affected organismal and molecular thermotolerance parameters in two fish species. I collected live fish samples and maintained them in a recirculating aquaculture system. I determined the CTmax temperatures for each sample before quantifying the HSP70 protein concentration in three tissue types using Western Blotting protocol. I then analyzed a full transcriptome dataset using Salmon to quantify the HSP70 mRNA transcript concentrations in two tissue types. All results were published in the journal Conservation Physiology.

Research Assistant / May, 2019August, 2019

I assisted in a variety of scientific projects occurring in Dr. Trent Sutton's lab. I participated in an Arctic cod eDNA project where we collected water samples from Prudhoe Bay, AK for eDNA analysis using custom primers I helped develop to detect the presence or absence of Arctic cod. I also assisted in a lamprey field sampling project where we spent 5 days using electrofishing to collect live adult and ammocoete samples in addition to collecting water samples for eDNA analysis. I filtered, collected, and extracted DNA from these water samples for future research. Finally, I assisted a graduate student in a capelin fecundity project.

University of Miami

Chemistry Lab Assistant / August, 2015May, 2019

I assisted in setting up and maintaining all undergraduate organic and inorganic chemistry labs. I had to prepare all necessary reagents and solutions using chemistry principles, including serial dilutions and stoichiometry. When preparing these reagents, I had to handle a variety of chemicals using proper lab safety protocol. Finally, I set up and maintained all lab equipment including, but not limited to, pH meters, titration equipment, and balances.

Shark Research and Conservation Lab Intern / August, 2018May, 2019

I interned in the Shark Research and Conservation Lab where I participated in research cruises that used modified longlines to sample live sharks around the Miami area. When working up a shark, I collected morphological measurements, caudal vein blood samples, muscle biopsy samples, and I helped tag the shark using a floy tag. We worked with citizen scientists who assisted us during the cruise, and I helped to explain the scientific procedure in addition to how the science would help with shark conservation. Finally, I wrote several blogs describing current aquatic conservation research that was occurring and why it was important.

National Science Foundation

REU Intern / June, 2017August, 2017

My research during looked to see what environmental parameters caused certain strains of Heterosigma akashiwo to bloom in hopes of determining what conditions might cause harmful algal blooms. I ran toxicity and photophysiology experiments on six strains of H. akashiwo. Additionally, I collected water samples from algal blooms containing H. akashiwo, which I cultured in a variety of salinities. With these samples, I extracted H. akashiwo DNA and ran PCR reactions in order to quantify fragment sizes as a proxy for genetic differences driven by the unique salinity conditions. Finally, I used prior-collected single strand isolates and ran PCR reactions to produce fragments to be sent in for sequencing. Before experiments began, I performed cell counts under a microscope using a hemocytometer. All experiments required extensive pipetting and practicing aseptic techniques in a fume hood to avoid cross-contamination.

NOAA

Ernest F. Hollings Intern / May, 2017August, 2018

My research here analyzed the stomach contents of silky shark in order to determine their diet preferences. I identified stomach contents down to at least the genera before analyzing the data in R to quantify novel diet information. I drafted a research paper before presenting a poster at the 2018 Ernest F. Hollings NOAA research conference and an oral presentation at the 2019 Association for the Sciences of Limnology and Oceanography (ASLO) Aquatic Science meeting. During this internship, I also assisted in field research projects collecting sharks and other live fish around Panama City Beach, FL using gill nets in addition to a smalltooth sawfish tagging project in the Everglades. Finally, I assisted in sectioning and cleaning vertebrate samples for future aging analysis.

Research Expertise
Beaufort Sea Nearshore Monitoring Project
climate change
heat-shock protein analysis
About
I am an experienced research assistant and data analyst with 10 years of professional research experience either working in a molecular lab or in an outdoor environment collecting data. I have 7 years of fisheries-based research experience either collecting samples in the field and maintaining large fisheries’ databases or working in a lab-based setting analyzing samples. I am skilled in statistical analysis with 9 years of experience running in-depth analysis in R. Currently, I am working at the Environmental Protection Agency assisting with toxicology exposure experiments using in vivo and in vitro models.

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Ying Wang

Ph.D and Scientist on low-carbon building materials
Education

University of Miami

Ph.D., Civil Engineering Materials / December, 2022

Coral Gables, Florida, United States of America
Research Expertise
Supplementary cementitious materials
About
I am a cementitious materials scientist with industry and Ph.D. research experience focused on cement hydration, durability, and low-carbon cement systems. My work combines deep technical analysis with clear, practical communication in customer-facing and legal-adjacent contexts. I have led and supported research on blended and alternative cementitious materials, including calcium carbonate–based systems, supplementary cementitious materials, and durability performance relative to ASTM and other industry standards. My technical work emphasizes microstructure–property relationships, root-cause analysis of performance behavior, and generation of defensible, reproducible data. In the green tech industry, I have served in customer-facing technical roles, working directly with clients, engineers, and stakeholders to explain material behavior, performance tradeoffs, and implementation considerations. I regularly translate complex experimental results into clear, actionable technical narratives for non-specialist audiences, including customers, attorneys, and business teams. In parallel, I am a Registered Patent Agent (USPTO Reg. No. 83876) and an inventor on multiple U.S. patent applications. I have hands-on experience preparing invention disclosures, supporting patent drafting, and contributing to claim-scope discussions for materials-based technologies. My patent experience complements my engineering background by strengthening my ability to articulate technical distinctions, enablement, and practical implementation.

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Carolina Duarte

Multidisciplinary Biomedical Researcher
Experience

University of Miami

Assitant Scientist

Assistant Scientist / January, 2022September, 2023

Nova Southeastern University

Adjunct Faculty / August, 2021Present

Postdoctoral Research Associate / September, 2019January, 2022

Ras Al Khaimah Medical and Health Sciences University College of Dental Sciences

Assistant Professor / August, 2014August, 2017

Tokyo Medical and Dental University

Research Assistant / April, 2011March, 2014

Research Expertise
Microbiology (medical)
Microbiology
Immunology
Pharmacology
Aging
And 18 more
About
I am a results-driven multidisciplinary biomedical researcher with 15 years of hands-on experience in biomedical research. Demonstrated expertise in applying the scientific method to disease characterization, diagnosis, and treatment, along with a comprehensive understanding of experiment design, execution, and data analysis. Possess exceptional communication and presentation skills, facilitating effective collaboration with healthcare professionals, key opinion leaders, and cross-functional teams. Skilled in translating complex scientific information into accessible terms for diverse audiences, honed through experience as an educator and medical writer in Asia, the Middle East, and the USA. Proficient in utilizing medical databases, conducting literature searches, and staying abreast of medical advancements. Proven track record of contributing as a scientific resource for internal teams, aiding in product development and strategic planning. Experienced in organizing and delivering scientific presentations, seminars, and advisory meetings to educate healthcare professionals and enhance product/mechanism knowledge. Seeking and securing funding has been crucial to my academic career, as my positions have been supported by government grants. I have extensive experience in content creation and administrative tasks for grant applications.

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L.T. Watson, Ph.D.

PhD in Exercise Physiology Committed to Elevating Sports Performance Science
Education

University of Miami

Ph.D., Applied Physiology / May, 2020

Coral Gables, Florida, United States of America
Experience

University of Miami

Strength and Conditioning Coach / August, 2016August, 2020

Florida International Univeristy

Program Director, Sport and Exercise | Clinical Assistant Professor / August, 2020Present

Research Expertise
Kinesiology and Biomechanics
Athlete Monitoring
Injury Prevention
Sport Performance
About
Trey Watson, Ph.D. in Exercise Physiology, currently serves as the Program Director of Sport and Exercise Science at Florida International University (FIU). With a background rooted in rigorous academic training, including a Doctorate obtained from the University of Miami, Dr. Watson brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his role. Prior to his tenure at FIU, Dr. Watson honed his expertise as a Sports Science Consultant and Strength and Conditioning Coach at the University of Miami, where he conducted groundbreaking research in neurophysiology and biomechanics. This experience provided him with invaluable insights into optimizing athletic performance and injury prevention strategies. In his current capacity, Dr. Watson spearheads initiatives aimed at advancing the understanding of human physiology and its application in the realm of sports science. As Program Director, he oversees the development and implementation of innovative training programs tailored to the needs of athletes across various disciplines, fostering a collaborative environment where students and faculty can engage in cutting-edge research and practical applications.

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Riley Palmer

Master's graduate whose work focused on ocean based carbon removal strategies and their impacts on marine life.
Education

University of Miami

MS, Marine Biology / May, 2023

Coral Gables, Florida, United States of America
Research Expertise
Climate change
About
Riley Palmer is a highly educated and experienced marine biologist. She obtained her Master of Science in Marine Biology from the University of Miami in 2023. During her time at the university, Riley focused on studying the effects of climate change on marine ecosystems and developed a strong passion for ocean conservation. After graduating, Riley began her career at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) as a Primary Oxygen Analyst. In this role, she studied the levels of dissolved oxygen in the Atlantic Ocean and how climate change is impacting ocean chemistry over time. Riley's work also includes conducting research on the impact of ocean alkalinity enhancement on coral reefs, specifically under future climate scenarios. Additionally, she participated as an outreach specialist with Twenty5Degrees, which focused on climate education and more specifically on mangrove ecosystem benefits and conservation. She has also been involved in educating the public through her work with SEA Semester, where she taught college students a wide range of subjects from water chemistry and nutrients to phytoplankton diversity and microplastics. Riley's dedication to marine biology and her extensive knowledge and experience make her a valuable asset to the field.

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Juliana Reyes

Future osteopathic medical student with an interest in microbiology, infectious disease, infection control, and public health
Education

University of Miami

Bachelor of Science, Biology / May, 2019

Coral Gables, Florida, United States of America

University of Miami

Bachelor of Science, Human and Social Development / May, 2019

Coral Gables, Florida, United States of America

University of Miami

Master of Science, Biomedical Sciences / May, 2020

Coral Gables, Florida, United States of America

Rocky Vista University

Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine / June, 2029 (anticipated)

Parker, Colorado, United States of America
Research Expertise
public health in medicine
About
Juliana Reyes is a highly educated individual with a passion for science and medicine. She received her Bachelor of Science in Biology and Human and Social Development from the University of Miami in 2019. She then went on to pursue a Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences from the same university in 2020. Juliana's love for learning and commitment to her education led her to further her studies by pursuing a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from Rocky Vista University with an anticipated graduation date of 2029. She is dedicated to using her knowledge and skills to make a positive impact in the world of healthcare. In addition to her academic achievements, Juliana has also been involved in various research projects and volunteer work related to her field of study. She is a compassionate and driven individual, always seeking new opportunities for growth and development. She hopes to use her expertise to improve the lives of others and contribute to advancements in the field of medicine.

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