I am a chemistry instructor and researcher with over 10 years of experience teaching
general and organic chemistry. I earned my B.S. in Chemistry from California State
University, Fresno in 2005, followed by my M.S. in Chemistry in 2008. Most recently,
I completed my Ph.D. in Chemistry at the University of California, Davis in 2024.
Throughout my teaching career, I have worked at Bakersfield College, UC Davis, CSU
Fresno, and Fresno City College, where I focus on creating engaging, student-centered
learning environments that make chemistry accessible and meaningful.
My research background is in organic and medicinal chemistry, ranging from synthesizing
new molecules for cancer therapy to developing carbohydrate analysis methods using
NMR spectroscopy. I enjoy connecting this research to my teaching, showing students
how chemistry impacts real-world challenges. Above all, I am passionate about mentoring
students, supporting their growth, and helping them succeed in STEM fields.
My research interests span organometallic, medicinal, and carbohydrate chemistry.
During my master’s work, I focused on the synthesis and catalytic applications of
chiral ferrocenyl-aminophosphine ligands and their Ru(II) complexes for asymmetric
transfer hydrogenation reactions. Building on this foundation, my research in medicinal
chemistry has centered on the design and synthesis of bioactive molecules, including
natural product derivatives such as silibinin and zampolide analogs with potential
anti-cancer activity. More recently, my doctoral research advanced carbohydrate chemistry
through the development of innovative silylation methods and 29Si NMR spectroscopy
for structural profiling and quantification of mono-, di-, and oligosaccharides. By
integrating expertise in synthetic organic chemistry, spectroscopic analysis (NMR,
GC-MS, HPLC, IR), and continuous flow methodologies, I aim to create new tools and
strategies that expand fundamental knowledge while contributing to therapeutic discovery
and development.
