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CV Highlights
Rebecca Richardson, Ph.D.
Ph.D. biochemist with experience investigating human protein–protein interactions in a bacterial system. Dissertation research utilized the LexA-based bacterial two-hybrid (B2H) system to confirm the direct interaction between cleaved Prostate Apoptosis Response-4 (cl-Par-4) and the chaperone protein Glucose-Regulated Protein 78, as well as to explore cl-Par-4 self-association by screening a library of cl-Par-4 fragments. Methods included MacConkey agar assays, β-galactosidase quantification, and polyhistidine-tagged pull-downs.
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Early graduate work included nanoparticle cytotoxicity studies in colon and liver tumor cells and zebrafish embryos. Currently finalizing multiple first-author publications. Seeking a research and development role or postdoctoral position in a collaborative environment that supports continued training in molecular interaction analysis and long-term transition into biotech.
Email:
Education
May 2017 to May 2025
May 2017 to May 2021
May 2015 to May 2016
August 2012 to December 2014
Doctor of Philosophy in Chemistry
Old Dominion University - Norfolk, VA
Master of Science in Chemistry
Old Dominion University - Norfolk, VA
Bachelor of Science in Biology
Minor: Chemistry
Bluefield College - Bluefield, VA
Associate of Science in Science
Tidewater Community College - Portsmouth, VA
Research Experience
May 2019 – May 2025
Research Assistant
Principal Investigator: Dr. Steven Pascal
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Independently formulated and refined research aims, hypotheses, and experimental designs for studies involving the LexA E. coli Two-Hybrid (LexA-E2H) system.
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Investigated protein–protein interactions involving cleaved-Prostate Apoptosis Response-4 (cl-Par-4), a tumor suppressor linked to neurodegeneration and cancer.
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Conducted screening assays using the LexA-E2H system to identify novel binding partners of cl-Par-4.
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Led optimization of assay parameters, control strategies, and plasmid system configurations to ensure experimental rigor.
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Collaborated with research mentors to interpret results and refine experimental direction based on findings.
May 2017 – May 2019
Research Assistant
Principal Investigator: Dr. Nancy Xu
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Conducted cytotoxicity studies evaluating the effects of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) against human colon and liver tumor cell lines.
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Conducted time- and dose-dependent uptake studies to assess AgNP-induced apoptosis, using cell viability and microscopy-based quantification methods.
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Utilized Single Molecule NP Optical Biosensors (SMNOBS) and Photostable Optical Nanoscopy (PHOTON) to assist in real-time imaging of nanoparticle-protein interactions at single-molecule and nanometer resolution.
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Supported experiments applying photostable multicolor AgNP probes for the detection of TNFα receptor activation in single live tumor cells.
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Collaborated on zebrafish embryo-based in vivo toxicity screening to evaluate nanoparticle biocompatibility, leveraging optical nanoscopy to visualize embryonic development and assess phenotypic alterations.
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Gained technical expertise in nanoparticle synthesis, colloidal stability testing in culture media, and microscopy/spectroscopy characterization (DLS, UV-Vis, fluorescence).
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Trained and mentored undergraduate research assistants and new graduate students, ensuring adherence to lab protocols and standards.
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Managed mammalian cell culture stock inventory and stock maintenance schedules.
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Oversaw chemical inventory and biohazard waste management, implementing effective schedules and processes
