Get to Know Arnold

Tell us about yourself.: I’m someone who genuinely loves rolling up my sleeves in the lab or teaming up on new ideas that can drive discovery. As much as I enjoy the hands-on science—running PCRs, culturing cells, or troubleshooting a tricky assay—I get just as much energy from connecting with others who are passionate about research and making a difference. Conversation, collaboration, and curiosity are what keep me excited every day to help push our field forward.

Share your professional journey so far and what inspired you to choose your current career path?: My journey really took off during my time at Montgomery College, where a project using fruit flies to explore gene editing first gave me that “aha!” moment. It made me realize that research is all about uncovering the unknown, often with a tight-knit team at your side. Since then, I’ve been drawn to work that brings people together, such as my role at the Vos Molecular Genetics Lab and my current work at Royal Assisted Living—because each position has shown me the power of collaboration and shared purpose. My inspiration has always stemmed from witnessing science bring about real, positive change for patients and communities.

Tell us about a recent project or accomplishment you're proud of. How did it make an impact on your field or community?: One recent project I’m really proud of involved improving how we monitor and document patient responses in clinical research. Rather than working in isolation, I helped coordinate with medical staff, scientists, and administrators to better harmonize our data collection strategies. This team effort didn’t just boost our research outcomes; it helped patients receive more personalized care and gave us new insights into how to enhance treatments. It was a powerful reminder that meaningful progress is rarely a solo achievement.

What is a key lesson you've learned in your career, and how has it influenced your approach to work and your future goals?: Adaptability has been my anchor. Science is full of unexpected turns, and being able to adjust, learn from teammates, and occasionally laugh at mistakes has helped me stay resilient. Embracing feedback and new perspectives makes problem-solving more effective and strengthens every project I’m on. This lesson keeps me motivated to nurture inclusive, open-minded spaces wherever I work and to approach future goals with empathy and flexibility.

What advice would you offer young professionals who want to make a meaningful impact in their industry?: Jump in, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to ask for help—or offer it! Some of the best breakthroughs come from conversations with peers or from tackling challenges outside your comfort zone. Engage with your team, share what you learn, and always remember that combining different skills and viewpoints can lead to the most rewarding innovations. The journey is better, and the impact is greater, when you move forward together.