My doctoral research in health systems engineering centers on the intersection of causal inference, statistical data analysis, and machine learning. Specifically, I aim to develop advanced frameworks for assessing the impact of interventions driven by continuously updated risk prediction algorithms on patient outcomes. By leveraging these frameworks, I seek to enhance our understanding of how interventions directly influence patient health within complex healthcare systems.

Lab website: https://zayascaban.labs.wisc.edu/

What is your education/career background?

I just completed my PhD requirements in the Department of Industrial & Systems Engineering at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, advised by Dr. Gabriel Zayas-Cabán. Prior to UW Madison, I obtained my bachelor’s and master’s degree in Industrial Engineering at the University of Puerto Rico-Mayagüez (UPRM), advised by Dr. Wandaliz Torres García. During my master’s degree, I worked with the NSF Engineering Research Center for Cell Manufacturing Technologies (CMaT) to assess the sensitivity of machine learning algorithms to challenges typically found in omic datasets, such as high dimensionality and highly correlated predictors, and mitigate these through the development of a data-driven modeling pipeline for relating CAR-T cell phenotype to multi-omics information. Aside from research, I previously worked as an Industrial Engineer at HP Inc. and Eli Lilly del Caribe. Moving forward, I have accepted a job offer from Bristol Myers Squibb as Manager of Cell Therapy Analytics.

How have you navigated a career in STEM as a woman/underrepresented minority?

As a Hispanic woman in STEM, my academic and professional experiences, especially those outside of my hometown of Puerto Rico have been accompanied by feelings of isolation, impostor syndrome, and self-doubt. As a minority in my field, I often felt underrepresented and misunderstood. However, I was fortunate enough to have great mentors who were supportive, unbiased, and that particularly understood the struggles I was facing. Having a strong support system and building community has also been crucial to navigating my PhD.

What advice do you have for women/underrepresented groups pursuing an education/career in STEM?

1. Surround yourself with mentors, peers, and allies who understand the unique challenges you may face and can provide guidance and encouragement.
2. Seek out and participate in programs tailored to minority groups, offering avenues for self-development, career advancement, and research experiences.
3. When pursuing a graduate degree, prioritize finding an advisor who aligns with your research interests and respects your working style and personal values.
4. Remember to prioritize your own well-being. Set boundaries, take breaks when needed, and engage in activities that recharge you mentally and physically.
5. Be kind to yourself during moments of struggle or setback.

What do you enjoy most about your career/current role?

The most fulfilling aspect of my career is the ability to directly influence patients’ lives using data-driven approaches. Through extensive research in healthcare, I’ve delved deeply into questions that resonate with me, gaining invaluable insights along the way.

What does diversity, inclusivity, and equity look like to you in your job sector? How do you incorporate DEI in your position?

Throughout my graduate career, I have been involved with the Graduate Engineering Research Scholars (GERS) at the University of Wisconsin – Madison, which offers a collaborative and supportive space with a network of peers from diverse backgrounds. Through GERS, I actively participate in the planning committees of programs such as the Summer Undergraduate Research Experiences (SURE) and the Opportunities in Engineering Conference (OPPS), which seek to introduce minority undergraduate students to graduate engineering programs and research.

 I have also participated in programs such as the GERS Outreach Committee, as well as the NSF Engineering Research Center for Cell Manufacturing Technologies (CMaT) outreach program, which target underserved high schools that have lower standardized testing scores with the purpose of generating excitement about STEM topics in the next generation. Moreover, I actively mentor individuals through programs like the Research Experience for Teachers (RET), collaborating with educators to develop instructional materials that inspire Hispanic students to pursue STEM careers. I also volunteer at career fairs and recruitment events, both locally and nationally, to introduce minority undergraduate students to the possibilities of graduate careers in STEM fields.

Overall, I am committed to promoting diversity, inclusivity, and equity within my graduate position by actively participating in initiatives that create opportunities and support for individuals from all backgrounds to thrive and contribute to the advancement of STEM fields.

What is your favorite way to unwind?

I enjoy daily walks with my dog Ñoqui.

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerieodeh/