Amanda Carbajal

I am a first generation Latina postdoctoral research scientist at SUNY Downstate Health and Sciences University, working remotely from North Carolina, with research training from NASA, Genentech, and the University of California, San Francisco and other biotech internships. My current work focuses on developing electronic health record–based, evidence-driven behavioral interventions to strengthen antibiotic stewardship and reduce the global burden of antibiotic resistance.

Previously, I was an adjunct professor of Biology at the University of San Francisco, San Francisco State University and Santa Clara University in the San Francisco Bay Area. During my PhD at the University of California, Santa Cruz, I uncovered genetic mechanisms that drive antibiotic resistance in uropathogenic E. coli responsible for urinary tract infections. I then completed a postdoctoral appointment at the Duke University School of Medicine, where I investigated how gut microbial signatures influence feeding behaviors through the gut–brain axis. My undergraduate degree is in Biology: Zoology emphasis, my Master of Science is in Biology: Physiology and Human Behavior emphasis, and my PhD is in Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology with a Microbiology and Environmental Toxicology emphasis. My skill set spans molecular and microbiological bench techniques, qualitative research methods, and an expanding foundation in computational biology. Broadly, my research aims to address complex threats to human health through integrative, transdisciplinary frameworks, particularly One Health approaches that consider the interconnected roles of humans, animals, and the environment in shaping health outcomes. 

I have mentored students as an undergraduate, MS student, PhD student, adjunct professor and postdoc. Mentoring is ingrained as a core value as both a person and scientific professional. My mentoring philosophy is that anyone can accomplish any goal they set, if they are committed, passionate and work hard. I do not believe in “stupid” questions. Hard work, empathy and accountability are core components of successful mentoring outcomes. Each mentee is unique, and I cater to each of my mentees according to their strengths, preferences and goals. 

Mentees: Gamyzhae Williams, Jennifer Arca