Research Education & Career Development

The mission of Texas Biomed’s Education Faculty is to create an educationally rich learning environment at Texas Biomed for all staff (scientific and support), undergraduate and graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and the San Antonio Community.  Their goal is to have a rich learning culture for students and interns, that encourages ongoing development of skills and knowledge.

What is Education and Career Development?

Meet The Faculty

Crystal Bolden-Rush, Ph.D.

Dr. Crystal Bolden-Rush received her Bachelor of Science in Clinical Laboratory Science from The University of Texas at El Paso. During these studies, Dr. Rush participated in a summer research experience. Dr. Rush credits this research experience for helping her to hone in on her interest in reliable and reproducible science. Dr. Rush followed this interest and continued her education, completing her Ph.D. in Molecular Medicine and Translational Science at Wake Forest University. She began her career by carrying her knowledge of nitric oxide function and kinetics into biomolecular engineering, where she synthesized extracellular, hemoglobin-based oxygen carriers. She has mentored and taught students of varied socioeconomic means and academic levels in formal, didactic and informal, active participation settings. Dr. Rush is passionate about intentionally teaching and cultivating the skills needed to conduct research. She serves as a holistic reviewer and facilitator/instructor for multiple post-baccalaureate programs.

If you’re a trainee interested in discussing your career path, current or future, email Dr. Rush: 

Rosemary Riggs, Ph.D.

Dr. Rose Riggs, is the Education Outreach Programs Manager for the Texas Biomed Education Program. In this role Dr. Riggs serves as the guide for the development of education theory and practice aligned programming and is the main liaison between participating school districts and Texas Biomed. Dr. Riggs has many years experience developing and conducting  in-services and trainings for teachers. She works one-on-one with teachers on curriculum development, lesson planning, and adaptations of the materials. Dr. Riggs has a PhD in Adult, Professional, and Community Education from Texas State University. She has expertise in the analysis and interpretation of evaluation educational programs.  Her 10 years of classroom teaching experience partnered with her robust academic program evaluation and development training makes her uniquely suited to lead initiatives at Texas Biomed that will serve our K-12 and greater community.

Beatriz “Bea” Guajardo, M.Ed.

Beatriz “Bea” Guajardo is Texas Biomed’s Education Outreach Specialist. She has an M.Ed. in science education with over 19 years teaching experience. Ms. Guajardo has taught science from kindergarten through middle school. She has spent the last three years of her career serving as the advisor/coordinator for the Early College High School Program at Brook Academies. Ms. Guajardo oversees in-person tours for area high school students as well as virtual tours which are available for students outside the San Antonio area. She also facilitates programs which bring Texas Biomed scientists to area schools for career days, science nights, and science fairs. Ms. Guajardo’s expertise as an educator ensures Texas Biomed’s STEM-focused curricular activities are relevant to students and connect classroom content to future science careers. As a member of the Education Team, Ms. Guajardo collaborates with Drs. Bolden-Rush and Riggs to support education outreach programs designed to inspire the next generation of science researchers.