User:Amontei2

My name is Ana. I am originally from but I have been living in South Florida for the last 14 years. I have a BA in Liberal Arts and Science with a concentration in Biology and I am currently working at The Scripps Research Institute. I was fortunate to start my biotechnology career at a start-up lab where I was directly involved in developing and standardizing new protocols. Our lab’s objective is to investigate the molecular mechanism by which IP6K1 (Inositol Hexakisphosphate Kinase) regulates lipid metabolism and to use pharmacologic and genetic screening approaches to discover novel compounds and proteins which regulate key signaling processes.

While looking for a Masters program last year, I came across the Advanced Academic Programs website. As a working adult, I was finding very difficult to just leave my work to become a full time student. Therefore, the main reason why I applied to the program was because it gave me the opportunity to do both without sacrificing valuable work experience. My hope is that with this program I will expand my knowledge on theoretical aspects of science which will enable me to develop innovative techniques to better serve my lab’s future needs.

I am fortunate to have a big part of my family here in Florida as I am very close to them. I have two beautiful nieces and one super adorable nephew. I take every opportunity I get to be part of their lives in every way possible, as it is amazing how fast they grow.

I am looking forward to my first semester in Grad school and I wish all my classmates a great semester as well.