People

SRI's innovative thinking depends directly on the individuals who work here. Meet members of our team and learn why they joined SRI - you may discover that you would like to join the team, too. Visit Careers @ SRI for descriptions of current openings.

Focus @ SRI:
Designing and conducting innovative in vivo model studies to aid in the development of new drugs

Title:
Drug Efficacy Program Biologist, Medicinal Chemistry Department, Biosciences Division

Day in the Life @ SRI:
I meet with clients and SRI scientists to develop the best in vivo models to evaluate candidate novel compounds for treatment of cancer, inflammation, diabetes, and other cardiovascular diseases. I coordinate and execute the experiments with other colleagues to obtain valuable data for a complete report.

Before SRI:
I participated in studies to determine the genetic control of reproduction, which includes the mapping of such genes and their role in reproduction, at the Neurobiology and Physiology Department, University of California, Davis.

Academics:
B.S. in genetics, University of California, Davis

Why SRI?:
I had worked as a consultant for SRI and was impressed by the opportunities and capabilities that the Institute offers, particularly in the cancer research programs.

Inspiration (what motivates you):
Cancers in general have similar devastating characteristics when afflicting people, and cancer is one of the leading causes of death in the world today. Because each cancer type is different and must be treated differently, I am motivated to seek new models and to treat the various types. The greatest reward is seeing a novel compound work against a cancer, and knowing that perhaps in the near future that compound can be used to treat and cure those afflicted with such a terrible disease.

Away from the Office:
I am addicted to playing soccer. I enjoy camping in remote mountain areas.

Languages:
I speak Spanish. I am learning to sing Italian songs.

Proudest Accomplishment:
Participating in experiments sponsored by the National Space Biomedical Research Institute (NSBRI)/NASA at the Nuclear Heavy Ion Accelerator, Brookhaven National Laboratory, New York

Words of Wisdom for New SRI Team Members:
It is very common to have members of different disciplines and divisions collaborate on projects, which is something you rarely see in other places. So, do not be afraid to ask people what they do at SRI. You may end up collaborating, too. SRI is a place of opportunities, especially for those who strive hard.

Favorites:
Book: City of the Beast by Isabel Allende.
Movies: Nowhere in Africa, Forrest Gump