Georgetown University Gene Therapy

Parisa Tabiatnejad

*****@**********.*** 603-***-**** linkedin.com/in/parisa-tabiatnejad

SUMMARY

Georgetown University M.S. in Biotechnology (Cell & Gene Therapy track) graduate with advanced training in mammalian cell culturing, RT-qPCR, and molecular biology. Experienced with in vivo/ex vivo/in vitro analysis. Strong communicator with a collaborative research background and a passion for translating biochemistry into technological insight.

TECHNICAL SKILLS

Competencies: Mammalian cell cultures • 2D/3D primary cell culturing • histological staining (IF/IHC) • assay characterization • immunofluorescence microscopy • murine model handling • animal care • tissue dissection • tissue collection • perfusion fixation • EM/SEM • PCR/RT-qPCR • DNA/RNA extraction/purification • molecular cloning • plasmid transformation • ELISA • SDS-PAGE • Western blot • protein purification • affinity chromatography • statistical analysis • data management • data visualization • ImageJ/FIJI • BSL-2 lab proficiency • literature review

EDUCATION

Georgetown University (Washington, DC)May 2025

M.S. in Biotechnology, Cell & Gene Therapy Track

● Dean’s Excellence Merit Scholar

The George Washington University (Washington, DC)May 2024 B.S. in Neuroscience, minor in Biology

● Luther Rice Scholar, Nu Rho Psi National Honor Society alum EXPERIENCE

Graduate Research Intern, Georgetown University January 2025 – May 2025

● Developed & optimized a 3D organoid model of the blood-brain barrier using human primary cell lines to mimic neurovascular interactions, incorporating co-culture and live-cell viability assays (e.g., live/dead staining, IF microscopy).

● Conducted in vitro characterization using immunofluorescence to assess structural viability and cell morphology, generating a model relevant to therapeutic screening.

● Independently designed experiments, analyzed outcomes, and optimized protocols with minimal oversight.

● Presented findings to a multidisciplinary research audience at department-wide poster showcase, highlighting potential use of the model for neuroinflammation drug testing. Student Research Fellow, The GWU School of Medicine and Health Sciences August 2022 – May 2024

● Performed RNA extraction/isolation, RT-qPCR, and subsequent data analysis to evaluate neuroinflammatory signaling markers in murine model of obesity-related hepatic disease, contributing to novel evidence of a liver-brain inflammatory axis.

● Further characterized genetic expression and validated PCR results via Western blot analysis.

● Processed murine biosamples of liver and brain for downstream analysis via tissue dissection, fixation, IHC/IF staining, and microscopy.

● Co-authored American Journal of Physiology publication towards advancing the current understanding of metabolic disease, with results additionally presented at American Physiological Society 2024 national conference.

Science Communication Director, BCEENET April 2021 – May 2024

● Led science communication strategy for a national NSF-funded network, bridging researchers across 50+ institutions.

● Created digital outreach tools and research summaries to translate findings for educators, resulting in increased engagement and wider company resource adoption. Academic Support Specialist, The George Washington University August 2022 – December 2022

● Delivered customized one-on-one lab instruction in molecular biology lab techniques (ELISA, PCR, Western blot, gel electrophoresis) for a student with disabilities.

● Facilitated hands-on learning and promoted accessibility in the lab environment. Biology Teaching Assistant, The George Washington University August 2021 – December 2021

● Supported lab instruction of 40+ undergraduates in laboratory protocols and data analysis for intro biology experiments.

● Facilitated experimental design discussions and reviewed key concepts for course comprehension. PUBLICATION

Kim, H. R., Tabiatnejad, P., Arestakesyan, H., & Young, C. N. (2025). Modulation of liver lipid metabolic pathways by central nervous system ER stress. American journal of physiology. Endocrinology and metabolism, 10.1152/ajpendo.00392.2024. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1152/ajpendo.00392.2024

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