Portia Eastman

Conducted research on the intersection of health and housing, identifying key opportunities and data to support housing modifications as an intervention to reduce malaria transmission. Coordinated monthly meetings and cross-sector discussions, bringing together experts from public health and the built environment, policymakers, and researchers to enhance malaria control strategies.

Designed and implemented a project tracking system that monitored 20+ action items across teams, resulting in a 25% improvement in accountability and timely task completion. Directed end-to-end project management for high-priority malaria prevention and control initiatives, ensuring alignment with CDC objectives and delivering on-time execution across 26+ countries.

Analyzed 10+ years’ worth of mosquito trapping data from Ethiopia using SAS and R, identifying shifts in mosquito biting behavior and informing updated vector control strategies. Supported the PMI lab team in processing 1,000+ mosquito samples from Cambodia, executing DNA extraction, PCR tests, and Sanger sequencing protocols.

Identified and led the recommendation to consolidate data systems from three platforms to two, improving data integrity and cutting duplicate entry time by 30%. Processed and updated insurance, intake, and demographic data for 50+ patients daily using Alleva and Salesforce, achieving near-zero error rates.

Utilized three years of KAP survey data for Master’s thesis, conducting advanced statistical analyses using SAS and R to identify key behavioral predictors of tick-borne disease prevention. Conducted field data collection across 58 residential yards, utilizing tick dragging, vegetation density surveys, LIDAR scans, hair tubes, and camera traps.

Reviewed and categorized 2,000+ motion-sensor camera images, classifying white-tailed deer by species, sex, and age group to quantify host density for Lyme disease vector analysis. Performed DNA extraction using the Qiagen QIAcube on 300+ biological specimens, ensuring high throughput processing and maintaining ≥ 95% sample integrity.

Managed a $55k annual program budget, supporting successful grant applications and producing data-driven end-of-year reports to leadership to help secure funding renewal. Recruited, trained, and mentored 150+ volunteers annually, developing orientation materials and support structures that led to a 40% increase in volunteer retention.

Collaborated with a team of technicians to conduct statewide routine mosquito surveillance in Rhode Island, ensuring timely data collection and vector monitoring. Identified and classified over 20 local mosquitoes by genus and species, strengthening data accuracy for vector control efforts.

Grade: 3.9/4.0

Activities and societies: Practicum: Disease Ecology Research Intern, Columbia Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Environmental Biology

Completed a Master of Public Health in Epidemiology with a Certificate in Global Health. Thesis focused on assessing the relationship between knowledge, attitudes, and perception of tick-borne diseases and the adoption of individual preventative practices among Staten Island residents.

Earned a Bachelor of Science in Global and Environmental Health Studies with a Minor in Hunger Studies. Gained foundational knowledge in global health issues and environmental factors impacting health.