Staff Spotlight: Raquel Rodriguez

Raquel joined CHLA 18 months ago as a Research Specialist in the lab of Ching-Ling (Ellen) Lien, PhD. During that time, she’s learned how to genotype zebrafish, use a confocal microscope and “knock out” genes using CRISPR-Cas9 technology.

“This job has been a wonderful opportunity to expand my skills in research,” says Raquel, who also takes care of zebrafish husbandry and ensures the lab is well-stocked with supplies. “It’s an excellent place to learn, and I feel very comfortable asking questions. There’s a sense of community here, and I really enjoy that.”

She developed her passion for research in college—studying virology at California State University, San Bernardino, and working for four years in a university lab focused on influenza A. She is currently applying to graduate school. “My goal is to get my PhD in virology and help my community by becoming a professor and teaching others about the world of viruses,” she says.

Although Raquel was drawn to science from a young age, she is also an artist. She has created a comic and loves to draw, sketch and tell stories. “I considered double-majoring in art and science,” she shares. “But ultimately, I realized I didn’t want art to be a career. Drawing is what I do to relax and de-stress. It’s my getaway.”