Rachel Pinto

Purdue University

B.S. Neurobiology & Physiology

Minor: Bioinformatics
Certificate: Applications in Data Science

• Intend to pursue M.S. in Bioinformatics beginning Fall 2026.
• West Lafayette, IN

AI Strategy Intern

Indiana Biosciences Research Institute

• Conducted competitive landscape research on AI platforms supporting preclinical drug discovery.
• Identified unmet research needs and evaluated opportunities for AI-driven insights across early-stage R&D.
• Delivered a strategic roadmap to leadership outlining external partnership opportunities and AI solution classifications.
• Presented findings directly to the CEO and executive leadership as part of a final strategy proposal.

Bioinformatics Researcher

The Data Mine (Elanco & Purdue)

• Analyzing feline immunoglobulin V genes using sequence alignment tools to identify conserved and variable regions across multiple breeds.
• Classifying antibody regions (CDRs vs. framework) and assessing variability in amino acid sequences across heavy and light chains.
• Gaining hands-on experience with BLAST and computational methods for antibody sequence analysis.

Teaching Intern

Purdue University Labs

• Supported instruction in BIOL232: Cell Structure & Function and BIOL242: Genetics & Molecular Biology (70+ students).
• Guiding experiments in microscopy, protein analysis, PCR, gel electrophoresis, DNA extraction, and bacterial transformation.
• Reinforced concepts in cell biology, signaling, inheritance, and gene regulation.
• Evaluated lab reports and provided feedback to strengthen comprehension.

Data Science Researcher

The Data Mine (AstraZeneca & Purdue)

• Collaborated with AstraZeneca employees to design and implement digital tools using Tulip and Power BI.
• Analyzed and visualized data to support app functionality and improve decision-making processes.
• Applied Agile and Lean frameworks to develop and deploy applications in a pharmaceutical setting.

Song Transposition

Carolina Chickadees Research

• Analyzed regional differences in bird vocalization patterns using Praat software and Excel.
• Created visualizations of acoustic data to identify patterns in chirping behavior.
• Wrote research paper focusing on the ecological and behavioral implications of song transposition.

Effect of Mutations in CML

Purdue University

• Worked in a team of four to examine the impact of H396P and T315I mutations in Abl Kinase for Gleevec resistance.
• Utilized experimental and computational methods (PyMOL) to understand the mechanisms behind drug resistance.