Open to opportunities

Malia Bautista

@maliabautista

Message

I translate neuroscience research into rigorous experiments, published findings, and engaging public stories.

United States

Message

What I'm looking for

I'm looking to apply my neuroscience research, science writing, and public-engagement experience to make complex scientific findings accessible and impactful.

I've translated neuroscience research into national radio stories at Loh Down on Science, writing 30+ humorous, plain-language scripts that reached 1M+ listeners.

At the University of California, Irvine's Fowler Lab, I studied nicotine and fentanyl relapse through behavioral operant chamber models and molecular assays. My work contributed to 10+ peer-reviewed publications, 15+ conference abstracts, and five oral presentations.

I've designed in vivo behavioral assays, tissue histology, and western blotting experiments, while managing NIH standards, IACUC protocols, and award-related documentation. I also wrote fellowship applications and co-developed a white paper with the California Department of Public Health that helped secure $100K+ in funding.

Beyond the lab, I teach biology and neuroscience, mentor 50+ students annually, and create workshops and outreach programs that make complex science accessible to K-12, adult, and community audiences.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Science Writer

Loh Down on Science

Jan 2024 - Jan 2026 (2 years)

Wrote national radio scripts by crafting humorous, plain-language narratives, increasing public awareness of neuroscience. Translated technical research into accessible stories, reaching an audience of 1M+ nationally.

Science Communication Script Writing Journalism Editing Storytelling Writing

Ambassador, Communications Fellow

Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory

Jan 2020 - Jan 2026 (6 years)

Directed neuroscience outreach communications by blending storytelling with science translation, increasing public engagement. Developed educational events and digital campaigns, and designed public workshops for K-12 and adult communities.

Science Communication Outreach Event Planning Digital Campaigns Public Speaking Community Engagement

Teaching Assistant

University of California, Irvine

Jan 2020 - Jan 2025 (5 years)

Taught undergraduate biology and neuroscience courses by designing interactive lesson plans, impacting 50+ students annually. Led labs and discussion sections, and supported course grading and evaluations.

Teaching Curriculum Design Active Learning Grading Student Mentoring Lesson Planning

Graduate Research Assistant

University of California, Irvine

Jan 2020 - Jan 2025 (5 years)

Explored the neurobiology of substance use disorders using behavioral operant chamber models and molecular assays, resulting in 10+ peer-reviewed publications. Designed and executed in vivo behavioral assays and managed IACUC protocols, earning over $100,000 in awarded funding.

Molecular Biology Histology IACUC Protocols Data Analysis Scientific Writing Grant writing