Deborah Kovalczuk
Morton Grove
Summary
First-year PhD student in Chemistry with research focused on megamolecule-based therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer’s disease and crossing of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Experienced in both academic and industry lab settings with strengths in analytical chemistry, protein purification, and method development. Bilingual in English and Portuguese.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
Work History
Graduate Student Researcher
Mrksich Lab
08.2024 - Current
- Beginning research on modular megamolecules for Alzheimer’s therapy and blood-brain barrier (BBB) delivery.
- Collaborating with the Klein Lab on a dual-mentor project focused on scFv NUsc17 targeting AβOs.
- Developing protein expression and purification workflows using SDS-PAGE, ESI-MS, affinity chromatography, and BLI.
Associate Scientist I
AbbVie
11.2022 - Current
- Conducted analytical testing of intermediate drug substances using HPLC, GC, KF, and ICP-MS/OES under GxP-compliant conditions.
- Supported development and validation of new analytical methods for small molecule and biologic candidates.
- Troubleshot instrumentation issues and ensured accurate documentation in laboratory notebooks and digital systems.
- Collaborated across teams to deliver reproducible results for formulation stability, impurity profiling, and product release.
Science Teacher
Kenosha Christian Life School
08.2021 - 11.2022
- Designed and implemented high school chemistry and physics curricula with a focus on conceptual understanding and hands-on learning.
- Led classroom and laboratory instruction, incorporating safety protocols and real-world applications to increase student engagement.
- Assessed student learning through projects, quizzes, and practical exams, maintaining a student-centered, inclusive environment.
Lab Assistant
Trinity International University
08.2019 - 05.2021
- Supported instructional labs for General Chemistry, Biology, Microbiology, Anatomy, and Physics by preparing reagents, materials, and equipment.
- Ensured compliance with lab safety standards and managed inventory and chemical waste disposal.
- Provided logistical and technical support during laboratory sessions.
Education
Ph.D. - Chemistry
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL01-2029
Bachelor of Science - Professional Chemistry
Trinity International University
Deerfield, IL05.2021
Skills
GxP Compliance
Quantitative Analysis Technique
Spectroscopy Techniques: UV Visible, FTIR
Chromatography Techniques: HPLC, GC, ICP-MS/OES
Protein Characterization: SDS-PAGE, ESI-MS, BLI
Statistical Analysis
Computer Skills: Microsoft Excel; Microsoft Word
Timeline
Graduate Student Researcher
Mrksich Lab
08.2024 - Current
Associate Scientist I
AbbVie
11.2022 - Current
Science Teacher
Kenosha Christian Life School
08.2021 - 11.2022
Lab Assistant
Trinity International University
08.2019 - 05.2021
Ph.D. - Chemistry
Northwestern University
Bachelor of Science - Professional Chemistry
Trinity International University
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