About Me
I'm a Computer Science PhD candidate in the Informatics Lab at Lehigh
University, where I work under the guidance of Dr. Brian Chen. My research
focuses on developing novel computational methods for protein structure
analysis and function prediction, with particular emphasis on (1) designing
deep learning architectures for advancing protein-protein interaction analysis and
(2) implementing scalable and maintainable software solutions for bioinformatics
applications.
My work bridges the gap between theoretical computer science and practical
bioinformatics applications, combining expertise in machine learning, structural
bioinformatics, and full-stack development. Notable achievements include developing
a containerization framework for bioinformatics software (Best Paper
Finalist at ACM-BCB '23), creating the HBcompare system for analyzing
hydrogen bond topology, and contributing to production-level computational
pipelines at Moderna Therapeutics.
I received my B.A. in Mathematics with minors in Computer Science and
Chemistry from Skidmore College in 2019, where I discovered my passion for
computational biology. This interdisciplinary background enables me to
tackle complex biological problems through innovative computational
solutions, particularly in areas where traditional wet-lab approaches meet
modern machine learning methods.
Skills
Experience
Bioinformatics Research Co-op, Moderna Therapeutics
Cambridge, MA
- Developed a PyTorch-based transformer model and graph neural network model for mRNA analysis
- Discovered a novel method for altering normally inflexible mRNA structural properties using graph features.
- Engineered several production-level features and improvements to the current Moderna computational pipeline.
- Presented comprehensive reviews and project insights to executive leadership at Moderna, including the VP and directors of computational science.
Adjunct Professor in Mathematics
Brooklyn, NY
- Aided in the development of a web-based interactive homework assignment and grading system, used in all math classes throughout the college.
- Taught several college level mathematics courses including pre-calculus, calculus 1, and calculus 2.
- Utilized a mix of lecture-style and activity-style teaching strategies to maximize participation and understanding of difficult topics.
Publications
A Containerization Framework for Bioinformatics Software to Advance Scalability, Portability, and Maintainability.
In 14th ACM International Conference on Bioinformatics, Computational Biology and Health Informatics (BCB '23), September 3–6, 2023
A full-stack web development project focused on the containerization and abstraction of Bioinformatics software to make web development easier for researchers. Awarded best paper finalist of CSBW at ACM-BCB '23'
HBcompare: Classifying Ligand Binding Preferences with Hydrogen Bond Topology
Biomolecules, MDPI, Oct 28, 2022
A graph neural network approach to classifying hydrogen bond topology.
Analysis of Protein-Protein Interactions for Intermolecular Bond Prediction
Molecules, MDPI, Sep 21, 2022
Protein-Protein Interaction analysis using intermolecular bond prediction, mapped using coordinate structure and validated using the SKEMPI 2.0 data set.
DiffBond: A Method for Predicting Intermolecular Bond Formation
2021 IEEE International Conference on Bioinformatics and Biomedicine (BIBM), IEEE, Dec 9, 2021
An exploration of intermolecular bond topology in Protein-Protein Interactions.
Education
PhD Candidate in Computer Science/Bioinformatics
August 2020 - Graduating May 2025
Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA
P.C. Rossin College of Engineering
Advisor: Brian Y. Chen
B.A. in Mathematics, Minor in Computer Science and Chemistry
August 2015 - May 2019
Skidmore College, Saratoga Springs, NY
