My research orientation is focused on the molecular underpinnings of the stress response and development of resilience. In particular, I am interested in studying hormone/cytokine biomarkers and epigenetic mechanisms contributing to stress coping and how the environment, from pre to post conception, can build resilience over time. In the past, I have worked in an epigenetics lab for my doctoral work, investigating molecular pathways linking glycolytic metabolic enzymes with histone deacetylase modifiers. Molecular cloning, chromatin analysis, proteomic analysis, and cell culture techniques were the main methods utilized. As a research analyst for a research firm in Connecticut, I specialized in providing consultation for medical and pharmaceutical industries, including preparing research reports and white papers. I also worked in a trauma research team at Swedish Medical center, studying plasma cytokines associated with traumatic brain injury and other inflammatory conditions. Currently, I hold an Associate Professor of Molecular Biology position at Rocky Vista University, where I am responsible for instructing first and second year medical students in molecular biology and genetics, along with directing a physician scientist track research program and conducting my own research related to resilience. My current research projects revolve around determining the molecular basis of resilience and optimal health by investigating how the environment can modulate the epigenome.