Ines Cadena

Background

About Ines Cadena

I'm a highly motivated scientist with a strong track record of independently designing and leading complex, translational projects to advance potential therapeutics for gynecological cancers and drug screening assays for STIs. I bring over six years of experience spanning academia (PhD, Postdoc, Research Associate), large pharma (Genentech internship), and early-stage startups (37 Degrees, Inc.), demonstrating adaptability and success in diverse environments. In my current position in Dr. Aleksandra Sikora’s lab at Oregon State University, I apply tissue-engineering approaches to develop preventive therapeutics for sexually transmitted infections, with a focus on Neisseria gonorrhoeae. My work centers on engineering human-relevant 3D models to reduce in vivo experimentation and integrate innovative tools to advance current standards of care. In parallel, I’m developing applications for collagen extracted from Pacific Northwest fish skin waste for regenerative medicine and tissue engineering. My research aims to bridge academic discovery and industry innovation by translating engineered tissue platforms and sustainable biomaterials into impactful solutions for human health.My technical expertise includes cell-based assay development, high-throughput drug screening, statistical optimization, biomaterials, and high-content image analysis.