Advisory Board

Cosette earned her B.A. in Biology from Luther College and is currently a PhD student in Molecular Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB). Her research focuses on infectious diseases, vaccinology, and protein chemistry. Under the mentorship of Dr. Lynda Coughlan, Cosette’s thesis investigates neuraminidase as a target antigen for universal influenza vaccines. Prior to UMB, she worked as an ORISE research fellow at the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, where she developed mRNA and nanoparticle vaccines for malaria, leading to two first-author publications.

As the Past-President of AWIS Baltimore, Cosette plays an advisory role, supporting the President and the Executive Board with her experience and insights to ensure the chapter’s smooth operation. She has held multiple leadership roles, including Director of Programs, President-Elect, and President.

Cosette is deeply committed to enhancing scientific literacy and inspiring young women, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, to pursue STEM.

Outside of work, you can find her volunteering at the Maryland Science Center, playing beach volleyball or pickleball, or spending time at the dog park with her golden retriever.

Connect with Cosette:
LinkedIn: Cosette Schneider
Email: info@awisbaltimore.org

Alexandra holds a Ph.D. in Molecular Microbiology and Immunology from the University of Maryland-Baltimore, along with an M.S. in Microbiology and Immunology from Tulane University and a B.A. in International and Global Studies from Sewanee: University of the South. Her passion lies in understanding infectious diseases, particularly how pathogens affect us and how the immune system responds. Alexandra is currently a postdoctoral research fellow at the FDA’s Center for Biologics Research and Review, where she focuses on T cell immunity against SARS-CoV-2 infections and vaccines.

Alexandra’s experience includes publishing two first-author research papers and presenting at prestigious conferences like the Merck Emerging Talent Symposium and the Gordon Research Conference. As a past president of AWIS Baltimore (2021-2023), she led initiatives that increased fundraising, expanded membership, and organized in-person events focused on career support and leadership skills. Under her leadership, AWIS Baltimore was honored with the 2022 Shooting Star Award in Entrepreneurship by the AWIS National Organization.

As Secretary, Alexandra curates the chapter’s monthly newsletter and manages external correspondence, continuing her mission of building a supportive community for women in STEM.

When she’s not diving deep into research, you can find Alexandra exploring the city or dancing salsa and bachata!

Connect with Alexandra:

LinkedIn: Alexandra Soare

Twitter: @AlexandraYSoare