Lorena Felipe - Scientific Consultant & Research Scientist,

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Work Background

University of TsukubaResearcher

Jun. 2024Tsukuba, Ibaraki, JapanResearcher at Profa. Isoda Lab at ARENA (Alliance for Research on the Mediterranean and North Africa) located at the University of Tsukuba.

Five Minutes Inc. Tsukuba JapanSub-Leader Manager (SR)

Jul. 2021 - May. 2024Tsukuba, Ibaraki, JapanAs a sub-leader (SR, in Japanese-Katakana) manager at Five Minutes Inc. (派遣 | Haken), I oversaw day-to-day operations and provided technical support to all part-time workers. In close collaboration with the General Manager, I ensured the smooth running of the fast-paced work environment at ZozoTown, the largest online retailer in Japan. My role entailed several key responsibilities, including: - Communicating with higher-ups in the Japanese hierarchy to resolve issues, - Supervising a team of 50-100 part-time employees from diverse cultural backgrounds (50+ countries, primarily from 5 major regions of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East), and promptly addressing any issues that might arise during the work shift to prevent delays or mistakes. - Additionally, I was adept at communicating effectively and flexibly with all my coworkers, taking into account the unique cultural backgrounds of each individual. Since joining Five Minutes Inc. in July 2021, this role has been a challenging yet rewarding experience, instrumental in refining my interpersonal and people skills to the next level.

One Terrace Co., Ltd.One Terrace: Foreign Assistant

Apr. 2020 - Apr. 2024Tokyo, JapanOver five consecutive annual editions, from 2020 to 2024, I had the privilege of serving as a Foreign Assistant at One Terrace's Oji Group Global Mindset Training program. This program, spearheaded by Training Instructor Daisuke Akutsu, was designed to offer comprehensive global mindset training to newly recruited Japanese employees of Oji Holdings. As part of my role, I actively participated in various group activities, including discussions and demonstrations with the employees, which primarily focused on the impact of diverse cultural backgrounds on communication, negotiation, work style, and problem-solving approaches. Notably, this program was intended to equip new employees with the requisite skills to navigate diverse negotiation contexts, depending on the cultural norms that prevail in their respective work locations across the globe, given that Oji Holdings has a presence in several countries worldwide.

ISA ISA: English Instructor

Feb. 2023 - Feb. 2024JapanSince February 2023, I have had the privilege of serving as an ISA-Group Leader in Japan, where my primary responsibility was guide multiple groups of Japanese high school students in their English language learning journey focused on the Self-Discovery Challenge. This program encourages students to gain deeper insights into their personalities while improving their language skills. To accomplish this, I guide them on various topics, including bias, system-thinking visualizations, and communication of their weaknesses and strengths. Throughout my tenure with ISA, I have spent 150+ hours teaching in 8+ prefectures across Japan (Ibaraki, Gunma, Niigata, Osaka, Fujisawa, Shizuoka, greater Tokyo area, etc). I have also enjoyed collaborating with English teachers from 5+ English-speaking countries (the United States, Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Scotland, etc.). This experience has significantly enhanced my communication skills and enabled me to interact with individuals from diverse educational and cultural backgrounds, as well as my time-management abilities and adaptability to work in ambiguous environments.

LbE JapanLbE: English Instructor

Aug. 2023 - Dec. 2023JapanSince August 2023, I have been working as an English Instructor for Japanese youth, totaling 120+ hours teaching across 10+ different schools located across Japan (Chiba, Nagano, Yokosuka, greater Tokyo Area), giving me an uncomparable international exposure and an impaired chance to get along with individuals from various backgrounds. In addition, this experience has honed my time-management and communication skills in a fast-paced environment, proving my ability to dynamically adapt to different situations and circumstances.

National Agriculture and Food Research OrganizationNFRI: Internship

Oct. 2022 - Mar. 2023Tsukuba, Ibaraki, JapanTest the antimicrobial activity of alpha-terpineol-based oil-in-water nanoemulsions stabilized by Tween-20 or Quillaja saponin using E. coli and B. subtilis as model microorganisms.

University of TsukubaDoctoral Researcher (MEXT)

Apr. 2018 - Mar. 2023Tsukuba, Ibaraki, JapanAs a doctoral candidate at Nakajima Lab's Food Resource Engineering Lab, from inception to completion, I designed and implemented the entire research plan for my doctoral thesis, which spanned five years. As a result, I hold the whole intellectual property resulting from my doctoral research. Apart from this, despite multiple obstacles, I refined my research methodologies to align with my goals, achieving academic success. I achieved significant milestones throughout this period, including receiving approval for a short-term project I had proposed through the Habatake Scholarship. This project allowed me to participate in the Graduate Student Exchange Program at the University of Tsukuba and spend a brief period at the University of Campinas. Additionally, I was approved to attend three competitive international summer courses on my initiative (2-times in Switzerland, 1-time in Germany). As a result of my efforts in my doctoral studies, I published 4 original research papers in well-known journals (Nature Portfolio Journal (npj), Food Research International, ACS, Food Bioscience) and co-authored other original articles with junior students in the lab. Throughout my academic journey, I have been an active participant in developing research plans and achieving remarkable outcomes through perseverance, resilience, courage, and a vast amount of dedication and effort.

University of TsukubaSão Paulo Office, Bureau of Global Initiatives

Jun. 2022 - Oct. 2022Tsukuba, Ibaraki, JapanAs a staff member at the São Paulo Office, my work was designed to provide Brazilian students with a comprehensive understanding of Japanese culture while promoting the University of Tsukuba as a destination for higher education. Thus, I created Portuguese posts using 'Canva' for the "Study in Japan" social media channels (Instagram, Facebook). As a result, over 5 months, among other secondary tasks, I developed a wide range of media content highlighting the significance of various national holidays closely linked to different aspects of Japanese culture, such as: - Star Festival (Tanabata); - Ocean Day (Umi no Hi); - Mountain Day (Yama no Hi); - Obon; - Respect for the Aged Day (Keiro no Hi); - Autumn Equinox Day (Shubun no Hi); - Health and Sports Day (Taiiku no Hi); - Culture Day (Bunka no Hi).

University of TsukubaTsukuba Global Science Week (TGSW)

Sep. 2018 - Sep. 2022Tsukuba, Ibaraki, JapanAs a support staff at Tsukuba Global Science Week (TGSW), I have worked in three distinct annual editions of TGSW: 2018, 2021, and 2022. During the 2018 edition, I was placed at the Saza Coffee booth, where I prepared and served complimentary coffee to all the participants. In 2021, I was entrusted with the management of the Twitter account of the event, where I was responsible for crafting and posting all the relevant English content before, during, and after TGSW. Finally, in 2022, I was a welcoming staff at the event entrance, responsible for providing comprehensive and accurate information about the venue, the various sessions, and check-in procedures to the participants.

University of TsukubaMice Research Support Work

Oct. 2021 - Dec. 2021Tsukuba, Ibaraki, JapanAs a research support staff member at the Institute of Human Sciences, I weekly maintained the mice apparatus used for in vivo experiments. My tasks involved cleaning all the cages, replacing the mice's food and water, and keeping the sterile room well organized. I performed these duties for 12 weeks, ensuring all the equipment was in optimal condition and ready for use during the experiments.

University of TsukubaModel for Art School Class

Apr. 2021 - Jun. 2021Tsukuba, Ibaraki, JapanI served as a live model for an advanced class at the Art School for 12 weeks. In this capacity, I was stationed at the center of a spacious room, where approximately thirty students endeavored to replicate my visage by creating clay sculptures. Each session spanned ninety minutes, and upon their conclusion, thirty unique interpretations of my countenance had reached their final stages of development, ready for display in the University's exhibition hall.

University of TsukubaEnglish Conversation-Partner at Global Commons

Oct. 2020 - Dec. 2020Tsukuba, Ibaraki, JapanDuring a 12-week online program, I played a crucial role as an English conversation partner for a staff member at Tsukuba University. My primary objective was to enhance their English proficiency through engaging conversations, each lasting 1-hour. I tailored the discussions to their interests, fostering a comfortable and conducive learning environment.

University of TsukubaResearch Student (MEXT)

Oct. 2017 - Mar. 2018Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan

CDTNScience and Technology Management (FAPEMIG)

May. 2017 - Sep. 2017Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, BrazilIn the capacity of a Science and Technology Management Scientist, my foremost obligation was to identify the elements impeding the transfer of technology from the laboratory to the industrial scale and to streamline the registration process for intellectual property at the CDTN research institution. To achieve these objectives, I conducted extensive meetings and interviews with all researchers at the institution. The outcome of my research was published, highlighting the primary causes that impeded the transfer of technology. Researchers' preference for informal partnerships with human resources development, such as Master's and Ph.D. students, rather than formal alliances with private companies were the primary causes identified. The researchers cited reduced bureaucracy and time consumption as their primary motivation for informal partnerships, whereas formal partnerships typically required more time to establish. However, in the end, the outcome of my research revealed that formal partnerships were more effective in transferring technology to the industrial scale.

Biostartup Lab 3.0 and FIEMG Lab Novos NegociosResearch Fellow: Startup Accelerator Program (IEL)

Mar. 2017 - May. 2017Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, BrazilOur company proposed an innovative approach called 'Systemic Ambiental,' which involves using mealworm larvae to break down polystyrene in an integrated system. The main objective was to capture carbon dioxide from the insect's respiratory process and channel it towards promoting microalgae growth to produce valuable compounds. Two accelerator programs, 'FIEMG Lab Novos Negocios' and 'Biostartup Lab,' conducted nationwide screening exercises for eligible participants. Fortunately, our innovative start-up concept, 'Systemic Ambiental,' was successfully selected by both programs. Our acceptance into these programs was remarkable and provided us with valuable insights. We developed a robust financial model and effectively navigated the challenges inherent in scaling up an emerging technology to an industrial scale.

Universidade Federal de São João del-Rei - UFSJResearch Advisor at Systemic Ambiental

Mar. 2016 - May. 2017Ouro Branco, Minas Gerais, BrazilI was a Research Advisor on the project “Biodegradation study of Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) by mealworm larvae (Tenebrio molitor).” The aforementioned research project turned into a startup concept, Systemic Ambiental, which was further selected by nationwide competition by two different Startup Accelerator Programs called Biostartup Lab 3.0 and FIEMG Lab, which was held in Belo Horizonte/Brazil from March to May 2017.

Universidade Federal de São João del-Rei - UFSJTeacher 'Topics in Biotechnology'

Aug. 2016 - Dec. 2016Ouro Branco, Minas Gerais, BrazilAs a volunteer Professor in the discipline "Topics in Biotechnology," I taught topics related to solid and submerged fermentation, biotechnology-based aroma production, natural food additives obtained through bioprocessing, etc., once a week for the third-graders of the Bioprocess Engineering course. The university officially recognized my volunteer activity under the registered document 23122.012607/2016-27 (process number).

Universidade Federal de São João del-Rei - UFSJResearch Scholar (FAPEMIG)

Aug. 2013 - Aug. 2015Ouro Branco, Minas Gerais, BrazilI have gained extensive knowledge and experience in applied microbiology throughout my academic journey. My Master's program provided ample opportunities to develop laboratory skills and hands-on experience in this field. As a result, I have developed an immense passion for microbiology, particularly in screening and isolating microorganisms from the natural environment. Furthermore, during my Master's degree, I managed my research project independently since my advisor was on a post-doctoral period abroad. This experience helped me develop a resilient mindset, and I learned how to overcome failures and remain focused on my research objectives. At a relatively young age, I successfully isolated 100+ microorganisms. Some of them are showcased on my LinkedIn profile's background photo. Some of these microorganisms have exhibited promising potential as converters of terpene compounds, antimicrobial activity against pathogens, or producers of natural pigments.

PET - Biotecnologias para a SustentabilidadeResearch Scholar (FNDE)

Aug. 2011 - Feb. 2014Ouro Branco, Minas Gerais, BrazilMy participation in the Tutorial Education Program (11.180/2005) in Biotechnologies for Sustainability (BioSus), providing me with invaluable lifelong learning experiences, mainly working within a large, multidisciplinary group. This experience enhanced my skills in handling conflicting solutions, collaborating effectively in a team, and balancing diverse opinions expressed by group members. PET BioSus marked the first time I actively participated in science outreach and education activities, going beyond my role as a research scholar. This aspect of the program is especially remarkable since PET members must engage in these three activities (i.e., research, teaching, outreach), which typically go beyond the scope of standard university programs. In addition to my deep involvement in biochar research, I also contributed to a science outreach initiative called "Minha Escola mais Sustentavel," where we conducted workshops in various local high schools to raise awareness among high-school students about sustainable development goals. Overall, being a part of PET BioSus has been an enriching experience, equipping me with essential skills, fostering a passion for science outreach, and enabling me to impact the academic community and local schools positively. Moreover, within the education initiatives, I was part of a group that supported other university students struggling with specific subjects like thermodynamics, analytical chemistry, or unit operations. This initiative allowed me to share my knowledge and expertise with other students and fostered a sense of collaboration and teamwork within the academic community.

Universidade Federal de São João del-Rei - UFSJStudent Body Representative of Bioprocess Engineering Course

Nov. 2011 - Nov. 2012Ouro Branco, Minas Gerais, BrazilAs a student body representative of the Bioprocess Engineering Course, I needed to attend several meetings, ensuring that the welfare of the student community was secured when the professors made different decisions regarding the student community.

ATP Jr. : Consultoria em BioprocessosATP Jr.: Founder & President

Aug. 2011 - Nov. 2012Ouro Branco, Minas Gerais, BrazilI had the initiative to create and be the founder of the Junior Enterprise of Bioprocess Engineering (ATP-Jr.). Later, in a very intensive journey as the President of ATP-Jr. my achievements included: (i) Team Leadership overseeing the whole team of the company as well as envisioning the strategic plans seeking for a fast success and growing of ATP Jr.; (ii) Proposed and implemented 3-outreach projects for Community-University Relations; (iii) ATP Jr. was accredited by the National Assembly of Student-Led Companies in record time, reflecting the high-standard work I could do during my intensive journey as a President of ATP Jr. since its creation. (iv) Organization of the II Bioprocess Engineer Course Academic Conference (II SEBIO). Initiating the Junior Enterprise movement at the university generated interest in other engineering courses. This led to the establishment of several additional Junior Enterprises on campus, including those related to Chemistry Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Civil Engineering, and Telecommunications Engineering. As a result, many students became significantly involved in the Junior Enterprise movement. Over a decade has passed since ATP Jr.'s inception, and my initiative's influence is still visible today. The Junior Enterprise system has benefited generations of students who have completed projects through it. A lifelong legacy that just started with a first step filled with significant courage.

Universidade Federal de São João del-Rei - UFSJResearch Scholar (CNPq)

Aug. 2010 - Jul. 2011Ouro Branco, Minas Gerais, BrazilDuring my initial foray into applied microbiology, I acquired invaluable practical experience that laid the foundation for my subsequent research. This experience involved hands-on work in a sterile laboratory. I identified microbial contamination in pure cultures, persisted through setbacks, prepared specific cultivation media for target microorganisms, and mastered manipulating equipment such as autoclaves and laminar flow hoods. In addition to acquiring these skills, I learned how to stain microorganisms for microscopic observation and preservation under refrigeration conditions. I gained all of this knowledge through a year-long research project. I successfully isolated 100+ microorganisms from their natural habitats during this project, thus establishing an extensive culture collection. My peers at the University recognized my ability as a researcher. As a result, I received Outstanding Work recognition for the best project developed by an undergraduate student in 2011. This recognition allowed me to secure a direct seat in a National Conference (64th Annual Meeting of the Brazilian Society for the Progress of Science -SBPC) where eligible participants were screened based on the nationwide Outstanding Work recognition awarded by different universities to their undergraduate students.

Universidade Federal de São João del-Rei - UFSJTeaching Assistant (TA)

Mar. 2010 - Jul. 2010Ouro Branco, Minas Gerais, BrazilAs a Teaching Assistant, I was responsible for organizing and preparing the Microbiology Laboratory for its upcoming inauguration. To this end, I undertook the meticulous organization of the laboratory's glassware, actively participated in the installation process of critical equipment, including a laminar flow hood, autoclave, and 5-L bioreactor, and played a significant role in the careful and logical arrangement of all the reagents in the Lab. Through this hands-on experience, I gained invaluable practical knowledge on how to initiate and plan the setup of a laboratory from scratch. It gave me vital insights into the intricate processes and considerations required to establish a fully functional and well-organized laboratory facility.

Universidade Federal de São João del-Rei - UFSJResearch Scholar (FAPEMIG)

Mar. 2009 - Feb. 2010Ouro Branco, Minas Gerais, BrazilDuring my initial year of pursuing my undergraduate degree, I was allowed to acquire practical research experience, which proved to be highly enlightening at such an early stage of my academic journey. Throughout this experience, I garnered an extensive range of valuable skills and knowledge. I acquired the know-how to prepare a calibration curve for quantitating a target compound using a UV-VIS spectrophotometer. Furthermore, I initiated my foray into scientific-based writing, which also served as my maiden voyage into the English language, and I became adept at sourcing references from reputable databases. This transformative experience profoundly impacted me, shaping my inclination towards an academic career and consolidating my ardor for pursuing a lifelong expedition as a dedicated researcher.

Universidade Federal de São João del-Rei - UFSJTeaching Assistant (TA)

May. 2008 - Mar. 2009Ouro Branco, Minas Gerais, BrazilAs a Teaching Assistant, one of my first tasks was to organize laboratory glassware in the newly constructed Chemistry Laboratory at my home university, UFSJ/CAP. This immersive experience offered me extensive insight into various types of glassware commonly used by researchers in their bench work. Additionally, I made a noteworthy contribution to the university by organizing the first set of books on the shelves of the Central Library. This undertaking was instrumental in ensuring the accessibility of the library's resources to both the student body and faculty members.