How did you first become involved with ACTG? What drew you to the network?
I first became involved with ACTG in 2000, when I was hired by Dr. Douglas Richman as a lab assistant [at the University of California San Diego]. At the time, I was excited by the opportunity to be part of a team working in HIV research. I did not know then that this would become such an important part of my life and career.
Over the past 26 years, I have grown within the lab and developed into my current role as lab manager, working under different PIs and now with Dr. Sara Gianella. During that time, I have had the privilege of witnessing many of the successes that have come out of this lab, which has always been at the forefront of HIV research — first under Dr. Richman, then Dr. Davey Smith, and now Dr. Gianella.
One of the most meaningful parts of being in the lab for so long is seeing people, programs, and scientific efforts grow. I have watched the lab evolve through different chapters and leaders, and I have also seen colleagues grow within it, including Davey and Sara, whom I first knew early in their research careers and now work with in their roles as PIs. That kind of continuity makes the lab feel like a true community, not just a workplace.
What drew me to ACTG, and what has kept me connected to it, is the mission. ACTG brings together people who are committed to improving HIV treatment and care, and I feel proud to support that work.
What are you focused on in your work with ACTG?
In my role as lab manager, which includes supporting the San Diego ACTG Virology Specialty Lab, I help make sure the lab runs safely, smoothly, and reliably. This includes maintaining equipment, supporting protocols, overseeing day-to-day lab operations, and making sure that samples are handled, stored, and tracked carefully.
A major focus of my work is making sure the biorepository is safe, secure, and well maintained so that researchers can access these valuable samples and use them in their work. Every sample matters, and I take that responsibility seriously. The same infrastructure also supports the Last Gift program, another study that I am very proud to be part of.
By preserving and providing access to these samples, I feel that I am supporting the researchers working toward better treatments and, ultimately, cures for HIV and other infectious diseases. My work may be behind the scenes, but I know it is an important part of the larger research mission.
What do you find most meaningful about your work with ACTG and why?
What I find most rewarding is knowing that I am part of something meaningful that can make a difference in people’s lives. Although I am not a researcher myself, I know that the work we do supports those who are conducting this important research.
Our lab is also very community-oriented, and through this work I have had the opportunity to meet some of the participants who make this research possible. That connection makes the work feel even more personal and meaningful. It reminds me that every sample represents a person who has chosen to contribute to science and to help others.
In whatever way I can help, I feel that I am making a difference and contributing to a better future, not only for my children and grandchildren, but for people everywhere. Knowing that the work we do today has the potential to improve the lives of future generations is especially meaningful to me.
What is the culture like in your lab and how do you cultivate it?
Our lab culture is built on mutual respect, integrity, a safety-first mindset, collaboration, and support. Having been part of this lab for so many years, I have seen how important it is to create an environment where people feel supported, where the work is done carefully, and where everyone understands that they are contributing to something larger than themselves.
I try to cultivate that culture by being there for my colleagues when they come to me with a problem. My role is not necessarily on the scientific side, but I enjoy troubleshooting the technical aspects of how the lab functions and helping find practical solutions.
I also believe in good lab citizenship, from being thoughtful about shared resources to taking care of the equipment we all rely on. A well-functioning lab depends on everyone doing their part, communicating clearly, and respecting the work of others.
I especially enjoy mentoring students when high school students or undergraduates join us for the summer or volunteer with us during a gap year. I try to help them understand what it means to be part of a team, to support one another, and to take pride in the work they do. I hope they leave with some of the same joy and sense of purpose that I feel from being part of our lab.
When you’re not working, what do you enjoy doing, or what helps keep you grounded?
When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time with my children and grandchildren. They are a very important part of my life and help keep me grounded. I also enjoy gardening, walking, and reading. These activities give me a chance to slow down, recharge, and appreciate the simple things in life.