Find out more about Sara

In 2016 I received my master's degree from the prestigious University of California Irvine . My thesis was focused on the "Evaluation of vascular network formation in pancreatic extracellular matrix". I used a vascularized micro-organ-a-chip to evaluate the formation and function of the vascular network in the specific pancreatic extracellular matrix (ECM) within a 3D environment, emulating the native pancreas. The interdisciplinary nature of my studies has allowed me to gain proficiency with a variety of laboratory analytical techniques and cell biology techniques such as human primary cell propagation, e.g. human endothelial progenitor cells and fibroblasts. I also acquired skills in the manufacture of micro-fluid devices.

After my studies I worked as an Associate Scientist for Lattice Biologics, a start-up based in Scottsdale, Arizona . I developed 3D supports with human extra cellular matrix with the aim of mimicking the tissue micro environment to expand human derived stem cells. I am co-author of a patent we filed in February 2017 entitled "Methods of Processing Biological Liquid Allografts and Methods of Use" . This product called AmnioBoost ™ is a minimally processed amniotic fluid supplement for the treatment of joint pain associated with osteoarthritis.

I contributed to the development of production processes and to the composition of SOPs. On a weekly basis, I performed biochemistry and molecular biology tests such as Western Blot, protein quantification, SDS electrophoresis, DNA extraction and quantification, and PCR.