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Our Team
We have filled all our positions until next year!
Our research sits at the interface of cell, molecular and developmental biology of the placenta. We use cell lines, animal models, and microscopes all the time! There are a number of possible projects to choose from but your ideas for related projects are welcome and encouraged!
Whenever open positions are available, we will post the official mechanism on the official web pages and sources. However, informal inquiries and expressions of interest in working with us are always welcome. Please, stay in touch and write an email to us or Dr. Guardia.
The Team
Carlos (Charly) Guardia
Principal Investigator
Argentinean doing my science in the US. I'm a chemist who fell in love with biology. During my training, I went from the computer to the test tube, and from the cell to a whole organism. Can't live without my husband, our cat Linda Jean, all types of cheese, and Wheel of Fortune while having dinner. In my spare time, I play field hockey and some Sonatas of Beethoven on the piano.
Asmita
Postdoctoral Fellow
I did my Ph.D. training in the Department of Cell Biology of infectious diseases at CSIR-Institute of Microbial Technology, Chandigarh, India. I am a research enthusiast and always curious to learn new things. In my spare time, I enjoy going on walks, playing table tennis, and doing video calls with my family.
Derek Y. Yao
Summer Intern/Special Volunteer
I am a rising third year undergraduate at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill studying Biostatistics and Music with a minor in Mathematics. I have always had a great interest in science and research ever since I was little. My hobbies are watching shows and nature documentaries, playing the trombone, spending time with family, and chatting online with friends.
Ruchir Bobde
Postdoctoral Fellow
Looking at the world’s smallest possible details was one of the most fascinating things I have ever come across, and that’s what I always try to do in research!!! I did my Ph.D. in structural biology from the Institute of Life Sciences, Bhubaneswar, India. Research is my passion and my current interest is to look for some cool proteins in reproductive biology. I have a beautiful wife and I love her a lot. In my free time, I enjoy watching movies, playing cricket, and spending time with my family and friends.
Linda Jean
Lab Mascot
Linda Jean is the best cat in the world. Originally from NC, but adopted in Washington, DC. Loves to snuggle, but at her own time (duh!). She doesn't have any teeth, but that doesn't stop her from loving her dry food.
Elizabeth (Lisa) Padilla-Banks
Lab Manager
I grew up in Puerto Rico where my family is originally from. I have a stepson and two daughters with my husband, a 15-year-old cat, and a small dog. When I’m not working, I enjoy looking for opportunities to be outdoors where I do amateur photography, motorcycle riding, gardening, relaxing on the beach, or paddle boarding on the lake.
Maira L. Perez
Postbac Fellow
I recently graduated with my bachelor's degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Although born and raised in North Carolina, my roots run deep in the southern state of Guerrero, Mexico where my family is from. In my free time I enjoy reading, watching movies and shows, rediscovering my love for the outdoors, and spending quality time with my friends and family.
Erixberto Olivencia Álvarez
Postbac Fellow
I am a Puerto Rican scientist who’s in love with studying life and also happens to be an Agronomist. I completed my bachelor's in Animal Science at the University of Puerto Rico where I discovered the mesmerizing world of Reproductive Biology. I enjoy the beach, literature, gardening, long hikes in nature and playing video games with my two little brothers.
Sadia Ahmadi
Postbac Fellow
My commitment to a world of reproductive justice guides my work as a scientist and researcher. I bridged my passions for social activism and scientific inquiry at the University of Virginia, where I received a bachelor’s degree in Women, Gender & Sexuality Studies and Cognitive Science. Beyond the lab, I love crafting wired jewelry, tutoring students, and writing poetry!
YOU!
Postdoctoral Fellow
Become part of the team! Can't wait to have you with us :)
