Nicole Matos-Vega, B.Sc

Experience

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  Pulso Estudiantil

  Jan 2020 - Aug 2020

  As an interviewer for Pulso Estudiantil, I am passionate about engaging with students, uncovering their unique stories, and amplifying their voices. I approach each interview with genuine curiosity, seeking to understand their experiences and perspectives. My goal is to foster an open and inclusive dialogue that represents the diverse range of voices within the student community. Through careful research and preparation, I ensure that each interview is well-informed and tailored to our readership. I actively listen and ask probing questions, encouraging interviewees to delve deeper into their experiences and motivations. By sharing engaging and insightful interviews, I aim to empower and motivate students who read Pulso Estudiantil, showcasing their talents and accomplishments. I believe in the power of storytelling and the ability to create meaningful connections, and I strive to provide a platform for students to share their stories authentically. As an interviewer, I am dedicated to celebrating student achievements and inspiring others within the vibrant student community. Show less As a writer with four published articles in Pulso Estudiantil, my passion for storytelling and dedication to the student community drive my work. Through meticulous research and attention to detail, I aim to captivate readers and offer fresh perspectives on relevant topics. Each article is crafted to combine informative content with creativity, evoking emotions and provoking thought. I strive to go beyond mere reporting, infusing my unique voice and experiences to make my work relatable and impactful. Seeing my articles published in Pulso Estudiantil brings me joy, knowing that my words have the power to inspire, inform, and empower students. I believe in the transformative power of the written word and feel privileged to contribute to a platform that values student voices. Moving forward, I am eager to continue developing as a writer, exploring new subjects, and connecting with readers on a profound level. Being part of the transformative process through my work with Pulso Estudiantil is an honor that fuels my drive to share compelling stories. Show less

  • Research Interviewer

    Jun 2020 - Aug 2020

  • Writer

    Jun 2020 - Aug 2020

  • Corresponsal

    Jan 2020 - Aug 2020
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  Students for the Exploration and Development of Space-University of Puerto Rico Mayaguez (SEDS-UPRM)

  Sept 2020 - Dec 2021

  Designed and led a bioprospecting project on in vivo bio-printed vascular tissue to study the effectiveness of Tardigrade damage suppressor protein (DSup) in mitigating genetic material damage from ionizing radiation.• Conducted extensive research and utilized advanced laboratory techniques and equipment to develop innovative methods for incorporating Tardigrade DSup into the tissue and analyzing its behavior under different conditions.• Communicated findings and recommendations to stakeholders and collaborators, provided mentorship to team members, and contributed to the advancement of knowledge in the field of radiation mitigation and bioprospecting.Interviewed, trained and led a team of cross functional scientists and engineers for a bioprospecting project leading to a 45% time reduction. Show less

  • Researcher for Astrobiology University Project

    Apr 2020 - Dec 2021

  • Project Team Lead for Bioprospecting

    Sept 2020 - May 2021
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  University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez

  Aug 2021 - Dec 2021

  Undergraduate Student Researcher for Fungal Identification

  - Andersen Microbiological Sampler was used to precisely sample air particles from 10+ predetermined sites, ensuring the quality of measurements and the accuracy of the results.- Conducted cutting-edge research in collaboration with a partner to evaluate medium preparation, fungal culturing, growth, and particle identification using advanced laboratory techniques; decreased time spent on research by 50% by optimizing the experimental design and workflow.- Employed a rigorous approach to ensure accurate and reliable data, resulting in game-changing insights that can advance the identification of pathogens. - Maintained a sterile environment through the use of aseptic techniques and good laboratory practice (GLP) Show less

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  Students for the Exploration and Development of Space (SEDS)

  Jul 2022 - Jun 2023

  Division Lead

  In my previous role, I actively contributed to the management of human consumables production from In-Situ Resource Utilization for MAPPER. I was also a player for the propellant and human consumables production. In DECIPHER and PROMISE I played a vital role in coordinating various aspects, including human physiology, psychology, Closed Loop Environmental Control and Life Support System, microbial QA, and ergonomic needs for successful missions.Throughout my tenure, I collaborated on more than 5 diverse projects that encompassed space biology, physiology, and mission architecture concepts, catering to both crewed and uncrewed missions. These collaborations resulted in significant achievements, including the publication of research in the AIAA journal and a presentation at ASCEND 2023.To enhance mission operations, I proactively identified key human performance issues and crafted crew activity scenarios, with a strong focus on ergonomics and psychology. I conducted thorough risk analysis and implemented mitigation strategies to ensure optimal mission outcomes.Furthermore, I took charge of interviewing, training, and leading a team of cross-functional scientists and engineers for a bioprospecting project. Through effective leadership, we achieved a remarkable reduction in project time.In my role as the Human Integrated Design Lead in PROMISE for NASA's RASC-AL competition, I actively contributed to tasks such as radiation mitigation, implementation of biological scientific research on the surface of Mars, and implemented crop production strategies to support sustainable food production.Overall, my experience in collaborating on diverse projects, addressing human performance issues, and leading cross-functional teams demonstrates my ability to contribute effectively to complex missions and projects in the field of space exploration, even in roles where I was out of my comfort zone. Show less

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  NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration

  Aug 2022 - May 2023

  Project Intern for DEIA practices

  I employed a rigorous research methodology to investigate the factors perpetuating underrepresentation of Hispanics in STEM fields. Through the utilization of mixed-methods and statistical techniques, I uncovered vital insights into the root causes of this systemic issue, providing a deeper understanding for future interventions. My analysis of key drivers and recommendations for targeted outreach and engagement efforts contributed to a increase in initiative focus over the following years. I also gained experience presenting to the Science Mission Directorate (SMD) team, where I highlighted key barriers, findings, and recommendations that could result in a 5-year increase in Hispanic representation in STEM departments. Show less

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  National Science Foundation (NSF)

  Aug 2024 - now

  Research Fellowship

  I have been lucky enough to received the NSF Extreme Biofilms Graduate Student Traineeship from Montana State University. This is a 2-year fellowship to study and learn more about a system that is specific per cohort. As the last cohort, our field site is Soap Lake, Washington. Soap Lake is a highly salty and alkali lake that formed from the great floods from Lake Missoula back in the ice age. It is estimated that this meromictic (layers that do not mix) lake has a bottom layer is not only anaerobic but the water has been accumulated there for more than 100 years. Show less

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  Montana State University-Bozeman

  Aug 2024 - now

  PHD Student

  Doctoral student in the Hatzenpichler lab. Currently my research encompasses field work in Yellowstone National Park to culture novel methanogens (archaea that release methane as an energy conservation mechanism).