
Marilena Aquino de Muro
5.0
(9)
PhD admissions coach with expertise in biological and applied sciences
Studied at University of Cambridge
Worked at Virginia Tech
Not currently taking new clients
Marilena’s PhD Programs Qualifications
Coaches professionally
Welcome to my profile! With a PhD in Microbiology from Heriot-Watt University and extensive research experience at prestigious institutions like Virginia Tech and Columbia University Irving Medical Center, I bring a wealth of knowledge to my coaching. I have successfully guided five individuals through the complexities of PhD applications, helping them to craft compelling narratives and showcase their unique strengths. My background in developing research protocols and analytical skills ensures that I can provide insightful feedback and strategic advice tailored to your academic journey. Let's work together to make your PhD aspirations a reality—reach out to start your path to success!
Marilena can help with:
Application Strategy
Data Analysis
Data Collection
Defense Preparation
Dissertation Proposal
Editing
Essays
Financial Aid & Scholarships
Interviews
Letters of Recommendation
Research
Resume
School Selection
Secondary Review
Marilena also coaches for Master’s Programs and TOEFL. View all.
About Marilena
I have nearly 20 years of experience in project design, research, and training technical personnel in a molecular microbiology laboratory environment. I am dedicated to my projects and maintain a high level of precision in laboratory experimentation. Additionally, I possess excellent communication skills that allow me to effectively interact across different cultures. My academic and professional journey in science includes studies and work in various locations: Scotland and England in the UK, New York City, Beltsville, and Ithaca in the US, Aalborg and Copenhagen in Denmark, Paris in France, and Brisbane and Sydney in Australia. In addition to my research experience, I have substantial supervisory experience overseeing master's and PhD students in various laboratories and universities where I served as a postdoctoral research scientist and later as a senior research scientist. I hold a Master’s degree in Food Science and Microbiology, as well as a PhD in Biological Sciences with a focus on Microbiology. Additionally, I have a CELTA certificate from the Cambridge University Language Department, which qualifies me to teach English as a second language.
Why do I coach?
I have greatly benefited from the guidance of my supervisors and tutors at the universities I attended, who generously shared their experiences with me. I recognize the invaluable contribution a professional coach can offer to students and professionals alike. I have worked with numerous Brazilian students to prepare them for the TOEFL exams, helping them gain admission to universities in the United States and Canada. Additionally, I assist students in finding the best universities for their specific fields of interest and in preparing their applications, including project descriptions and resumes. As a science editor, I have helped many authors prepare their book chapters and scientific papers for submission. I am deeply committed to my students and closely monitor their progress from the initial stages through to the final submission and acceptance at their chosen universities.
Work Experience

Associate Senior Research Scientist
Virginia Tech
July 2023 - September 2024
Gene Knockouts and heterologous expression of bacterial secondary metabolites; developed protocols for biochemical screening of biologically active compounds.

Associate Research Scientist
Columbia University Medical Center
March 2021 - July 2023
Developed protocols for air sampling and isolation of mesophilic aerobic bacteria from the air microbiome.
Education

University of Cambridge
CELTA, Cambridge English Language Assessment
2018 - 2019
native-like English, Convincing argumentation and +4 skills

Heriot-Watt University
Doctor of Philosophy - PhD, Microbiology
1990 - 1993
Grade: Molecular Biology and Microbial Taxonomy Analytical Capability, native-like English and +9 skills

Universidade Estadual de Campinas
Masters, Food Science
1985 - 1988
Characterization of toxic strains of Bacillus cereus from food samples.

Universidade Estadual de Campinas
Bachelor , Food Engineering
1980 - 1984
Food Engineering: Food Science; Engineering; Technology, Nutrition in Food Processing.
9 Reviews
Overall Rating
5.0
Marilena has helped Leland clients get into Ambev
Marilena has helped clients achieve these scores on the TOEFL