Akwii Grace Racheal
@akwiigraceracheal
PhD-trained translational scientist with expertise in oncology and gene therapy.
What I'm looking for
I am a PhD-trained translational scientist with over six years of experience in oncology, molecular biology, and gene therapy. My expertise lies in mRNA/LNP platforms, genomic assay development, and bioinformatics. I have a proven track record of designing and executing in vivo studies, developing biomarker strategies, and interpreting high-dimensional genomic datasets. My collaborative spirit allows me to work effectively with clinicians, KOLs, and cross-functional teams to support early detection, translational research, and regulatory submissions.
Currently, I serve as a Senior Scientist at AbbVie Inc, where I lead in vivo biodistribution studies to assess LNP-mRNA payload performance. My role involves developing targeted delivery strategies, authoring technical reports, and mentoring junior scientists. Previously, I advanced gene therapy programs at Sanofi and led translational oncology projects at Texas Tech University Health Science Center. My technical skills include proficiency in R, Python, and HIPAA-compliant data handling, which I leverage to drive high-impact translational programs.
Experience
Work history, roles, and key accomplishments
Senior Scientist, Genetic Medicine Biology
AbbVie Inc
Apr 2024 - Present (1 year 3 months)
Designed and led in vivo biodistribution studies to assess LNP-mRNA payload performance via molecular and protein-level readouts, developing targeted delivery strategies. Authored and QC'd technical reports aligned with SOPs and regulatory guidelines, applying Snapgene, R/Python to analyze gene expression data. Mentored junior scientists in experimental design, assay execution, and translational d
Research Scientist, Genomic Medicine Unit
Sanofi
Jul 2022 - Apr 2024 (1 year 9 months)
Advanced three gene therapy programs through cross-functional collaboration with clinical development, biomarker, and platform teams, designing AAV constructs and leading in vitro/in vivo screening. Developed genomic assays to analyze target expression and vector efficacy, contributing to regulatory briefing documents. Supported translational assay development and exploratory biomarker analysis in
Research & Teaching Assistant
Texas Tech University Health Science Center
Jul 2019 - Jul 2022 (3 years)
Led four translational oncology projects assessing biomarker modulation by targeted therapies using in vivo models, engineering CRISPR-Cas9 knockout models to evaluate tumor and immune cell responses. Conducted exosome analysis, lymphangiogenesis studies, and molecular profiling of tumor microenvironments. Utilized R and Python to analyze and visualize data from flow cytometry, qPCR, and imaging a
ABRI Intern
Texas Tech University Health Science Center
May 2018 - Aug 2018 (3 months)
Developed and conducted a mechanistic angiogenesis study, specifically focusing on RhoA signaling in lymphatic endothelial cells. This involved designing experiments and executing laboratory procedures to investigate cellular pathways.
Medical Laboratory Technologist
Central Public Health Laboratory (CPHL)
Jul 2015 - Present (10 years)
Supported national PCR testing efforts and trained medical lab professionals in quality control and reporting practices. Implemented SOPs that significantly reduced assay error rates, enhancing laboratory efficiency and accuracy.
Biomedical Sciences Student Trainee
Mulago Hospital
Aug 2014 - Present (10 years 11 months)
Received comprehensive training in molecular biology workflows, encompassing essential techniques such as RNA/DNA isolation, PCR, sequencing, and gel electrophoresis. Gained practical experience in fundamental laboratory procedures critical for biomedical research.
Education
Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework
Texas Tech University Health Science Center
PhD, Pharmaceutical Sciences
Activities and societies: Presented data in academic and peer-reviewed forums and mentored graduate trainees in lab practices and experimental design.
Conducted four translational oncology projects, assessing biomarker modulation by targeted therapies using in vivo models. Engineered CRISPR-Cas9 knockout models to evaluate tumor and immune cell responses. Analyzed and visualized data from flow cytometry, qPCR, and imaging assays using R and Python.
Texas Tech University Health Science Center
MS, Pharmaceutical Sciences
Undertook studies in pharmaceutical sciences, focusing on advanced research methodologies and drug development. Gained expertise in various laboratory techniques and data analysis relevant to the field.
Makerere University
BS, Biomedical Sciences
Completed a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences, gaining foundational knowledge in biological and medical sciences. Trained in molecular biology workflows, including RNA/DNA isolation, PCR, sequencing, and gel electrophoresis.
Availability
Location
Authorized to work in
Job categories
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