I have what some might call an eclectic background. Originally a music major (yes, I wanted to be a rock star), I spent the first 17 years of my professional career as a technical advisor in the car business for Acura, BMW, Mazda and Volkswagen. Twelve years ago, my mother’s bout with cancer brought out the scientist in me.
I’ve been lucky enough to earn two degrees in cell and molecular biology and have a passion for virology and immunology. I’ve also been honored to serve as senior molecular biologist for the US Department of Defense’s Global Influenza Surveillance Program from 2006 -2011 where we made great strides in flu surveillance and vaccine development. Our model was so successful, I started my own infectious disease and molecular diagnostics consulting company, Movira Sciences & Diagnostics (still trying to get it off the ground ;) ).
I count many global scientists and biotech professionals as friends and colleagues with whom I’ve co-authored many journal articles, presentations and abstracts. I currently work as an Applied Testing Applications Scientist with QIAGEN, Inc. and serve as an infectious disease moderator for LabRoots.com. I play guitar and yes, I still want to be a rock star.
