Our Team

Dr. Vijayalakshmi Natarajan has been a biology professor at Harry S Truman College since 2009. She serves as the site director of the ABE program, partnership coordinator, and organizer of science summer camps and weekend research projects. Her team of talented instructional assistants ensures that engaging, hands-on training is provided at multiple levels for junior high, senior high, and college students. The Science Research Experiences program offers students opportunities to gain laboratory experience and earn community service hours.

Lakshmi holds a Master’s degree in biotechnology and a Doctor of Medicine degree, which emphasizes understanding human biology, diagnosing and treating diseases, and promoting overall health.

Teesta Jain works with ABE-Harry S Truman College as the Site Coordinator. She is responsible for preparing all reagents and equipment, maintaining lab equipment, writing lab protocols, and conducting workshops for ABE teachers at Harry S Truman College.

Before joining ABE, Teesta gained valuable experience through her roles at the City Colleges of Chicago, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, the University of Chicago, and IIT Stuart School of Business. In these roles, she managed grants, contributed to teaching and hands-on lab activities, and participated in curriculum development.

Teesta holds a PhD in Biochemistry and possesses a robust skill set that includes expertise in cancer research, drug delivery, pharmacokinetics, DNA studies, molecular cloning, higher education, and more.

In her free time, she enjoys reading, conducting research, cooking, hiking, and spending time with family and friends.