2021-Present
I regularly train graduate researchers and post doctoral researchers in the theory, operation, and data analysis of biophysical spectroscopy instruments (found in the Beckman Institute Laser Resource Center), with an emphasis on developing independence, experimental rigor, and critical interpretation of results.
Circular Dichroism (CD) Spectroscopy
I provide hands-on training in circular dichroism spectroscopy for protein characterization, including:
Fundamental principles of CD and secondary structure analysis
Instrument setup, calibration, and best practices for data collection
Sample preparation considerations (buffer choice, concentration, path length)
Identification and mitigation of common artifacts (buffer subtraction, noise)
Data processing, normalization (mean residue ellipticity), and visualization
Fluorescence Spectroscopy (Fluorimetry)
I train researchers in steady-state fluorescence spectroscopy, focusing on the following:
Fluorescence fundamentals (excitation/emission, quenching, inner filter effects)
Instrument setup and optimization of acquisition parameters
Data analysis and quantitative interpretation
Troubleshooting signal artifacts and reproducibility issues
Across both platforms, I emphasize good experimental practice, clear documentation, and reproducible analysis workflows.
Accepted Participant (April 2026)
I was selected to participate in the Institute for Future PUI Faculty (IFPF) at Lafayette College, a professional development program designed to prepare future faculty for teaching-centered careers at primarily undergraduate institutions.
The program focuses on evidence-based pedagogy, inclusive teaching practices, undergraduate mentoring, and the integration of research and teaching in PUI environments. I will update this section to reflect specific training experiences, curricular development, and mentoring outcomes from the program.
Teaching Assistant Positions
Chem 153a- Winter 2024, Winter 2025
California Institute of Technology, Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
Course Description from Caltech CCE Course Catalog:
Topics in modern inorganic chemistry. Electronic structure, spectroscopy, and photochemistry with emphasis on examples from the research literature.
Instructors: Gray, Winkler
During this time I adapted a matlab script into an easy-to-use Franck-Condon Simulator for the students in the course that can be accessed below:
Chem 126-Winter 2024
California Institute of Technology, Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
Course Description from Caltech CCE Course Catalog:
Quantum mechanical foundations of the spectroscopy of molecules. Topics include the theory of radiation-matter interactions, applications of group theory to spectroscopy, angular momentum, magnetic resonance spectroscopy, rotational spectroscopy, vibrational spectroscopy, electronic spectroscopy, and photoelectron spectroscopy.
Instructor: Winkler
Chem 3x- Fall 2020, Winter 2021, Spring 2021
California Institute of Technology, Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
Course Description from Caltech CCE Course Catalog:
Introduces concepts and laboratory methods in chemistry and materials science centered on the theme of solar energy conversion and storage. Students will perform experiments involving optical spectroscopy, electrochemistry, laser spectroscopy, photochemistry, and photoelectrochemistry, culminating in the construction and testing of dye-sensitized solar cells.
Instructor: Mendez
This course took place during the pandemic, at the time I recorded demo videos for students to see experiments. See below:
High School Honors Chemistry - 2015-2016 Academic Year
Etiwanda High School
During my senior year of high school, I co-taught an honors chemistry course, where I prepared and conducted interactive demonstrations of chemical reactions. I delivered several lectures on various chemistry topics and recorded a few demonstrations, making them available online for students to view. See below: