Vivian Li

Immunology team

Lead Biology Assessment team. Cell Line Generation via CRISPR, Lentivirus Immune functional assays

Working on R&D in the Molecular Biology and Cell Line Engineering team to improve internal capabilities. Formerly active in the production pipeline in cloning and expression for external partner projects.

Worked and presented on two internal research cloning projects under supervision.

Designed brochures, pamphlets, and web artifacts for the company's promotional events and projects.

Recipient of the McGill Integrated Cancer Research Training Program Summer Studentship Award Investigating role of MNK/eIF4E axis in breast cancer at the Miller Lab under PhD Qianyu Guo

Voted in to work as liason between BCITSA and BCIT, representing the concerns of my set (biotechnology) at the monthly set-rep meetings, as well as at the UBC-BCIT Biotechnology PAC board's biannual meetings.

Recipient of BC Proteomics Network Undergraduate Award to work with Dr. Horacio Bach of the IIRC studying the pathogenicity of Crohn's disease. Investigated effects of MAP (Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis, postulated causative agent of Crohn's disease) with and without the presence of anti-inflammation drug Infliximab on the human proteome using THP-1 cells. Also produced protein for the investigation of the effects of a specific thioureal derivative [confidential] in human cells. Performed assays to assess the toxicity of silver nanoparticles on human monocytes. Transformed genes into bacteria for the production and purification of many proteins for collaborations with other labs, including the BCCDC.

Worked under the guidance of post-doctorate researcher Dr. Janaina Brusco on her project in understanding the mitochondria's key role in regulating neuronal plasticity and development, with a goal of understanding neural circuity to aid treatment of autism, epilepsy, and schizophrenia. My Lab Functions • Performed tectal dissection in X. laevis tadpoles to isolate RNA • Tested specificity and expression strength of primers through gel electrophoresis, creating cDNA from RNA • Performed single-cell electroporation for gene transfer in-vivo • Ran the rt-PCR protocol to quantify gene expression • Cared for and monitored X. laevis adults • Learned imagining of X. laevis neurons with two-photon microscope • General buffer and media upkeep around the lab as expected as a lab member

Worked as member of team to engineer specific bee-gut bacteria (S. alvi and G. apicola) to degrade a common pesticide to counter the issue of colony collapse disorder. Achieved gold medal at international iGEM Competition in Boston, MA. Project was nominated for Best Environmental Project and Best Poster. Responsibilities: • Worked in-lab on screening pesticide degradation potential from bacterial library • Wrote and illustrated for the project wiki (http://2015.igem.org/Team:British_Columbia) • Participated in several outreach events at Telus World of Science, UBC Farmer's Market, and interviewed professionals on the commercial feasibility and impact of the project • Worked with team over months on weekly meetings researching ideas, designing and helping create presentations

Engages with the needs of the customers and provides the Victoria’s Secret Fantasy experience, including sizing, matching sets, while being personable and striking conversation to find their need and match the best product to them. Promotes the product naturally through conversation.