Theresa Higgins

Research Assistant II || Doctoral Student in Immunology

Auburn

Research Expertise

immunology

osteosarcoma

cancer

CAR T

oncolytic virus

animal behavior

seed dispersal

ecology

avian biology

science communication

fine art

writing

About

I am a current PhD student and experienced laboratory technician in molecular biology, with a strong background in avian behavior and ecology. My current research is focused on oncolytic virus and CAR T immunotherapies as treatment for osteosarcoma in a canine model. Additionally, I am passionate about scientific communication through interdisciplinary work and the arts.

Publications

Behavioral traits vary with intrinsic factors and impact local survival in Song Sparrows (Melospiza melodia)

The Wilson Journal of Ornithology / Jun 21, 2022

Higgins, T. A., Wilcox, R. C., Germain, R. R., & Tarwater, C. E. (2022). Behavioral traits vary with intrinsic factors and impact local survival in Song Sparrows (Melospiza melodia). The Wilson Journal of Ornithology, 134(2). https://doi.org/10.1676/21-00085

Abstract 2339: Exploration of multiple immunotherapy modalities in ostesarcoma

Cancer Research / Apr 04, 2023

Ismail, A. A., Patton, D. J., Higgins, T. A., Sandey, M., Smith, B. F., & Agarwal, P. (2023). Abstract 2339: Exploration of multiple immunotherapy modalities in ostesarcoma. Cancer Research, 83(7_Supplement), 2339–2339. https://doi.org/10.1158/1538-7445.am2023-2339

Characterization of Canine Adenovirus Type 2 Virus Infection Pattern in Canine and Human Cell Lines

Advances in Virology / Dec 22, 2022

Hogans, M. D., Kretzschmar, W. P., Higgins, T. A., Chakrabortty, A., Nance, R. L., Smith, B. F., Bedi, D., Sandey, M., & Agarwal, P. (2022). Characterization of Canine Adenovirus Type 2 Virus Infection Pattern in Canine and Human Cell Lines. Advances in Virology, 2022, 1–10. https://doi.org/10.1155/2022/3658970

The Development and Characterization of a Next-Generation Oncolytic Virus Armed with an Anti-PD-1 sdAb for Osteosarcoma Treatment In Vitro

Cells / Feb 17, 2024

Higgins, T. A., Patton, D. J., Shimko-Lofano, I. M., Eller, T. L., Molinari, R., Sandey, M., Ismail, A., Smith, B. F., & Agarwal, P. (2024). The Development and Characterization of a Next-Generation Oncolytic Virus Armed with an Anti-PD-1 sdAb for Osteosarcoma Treatment In Vitro. Cells, 13(4), 351. https://doi.org/10.3390/cells13040351

Education

University of Wyoming

BS, Zoology and Physiology / May, 2021

Laramie, Wyoming, United States of America

Auburn University

Ph.D, Immunology and Cancer Biology / December, 2026 (anticipated)

Auburn, Alabama, United States of America

Experience

University of Wyoming

Undergraduate Research Fellow / May, 2019 — May, 2021

Independent research project on the relationship between song sparrow behavior, intrinsic traits (age, sex, inbreeding), and survival in an isolated island population.

Undergraduate Research Assistant / October, 2017 — May, 2021

Data input and content artist for Hawaii VINE project on the relationship between seed dispersal of invasive plant species and introduced bird species.

Undergraduate Research Fellow / May, 2019 — May, 2020

Independent project on zebra finch personality and behavior and training AI systems.

Field Technician / May, 2021 — June, 2021

Indigo and Lazuli bunting hybridization project.

Auburn University

Research Assistant I / August, 2021 — January, 2022

Molecular biology oncolytic virus research.

Laboratory Technician III / January, 2022 — January, 2024

Project support for several veterinary clinical research projects including canine IMHA, canine ITP, equine respiratory disease, Babesia parasitology, and feline cardiac responses to trauma.

Research Assistant II / January, 2023 — Present

Immunotherapies for cancer treatment including CAR T, oncolytic virus, and immune checkpoint inhibition.

Links & Social Media

Linkedin

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