Agnlia Eisaghalian

Passionate about Family Medicine with a focus on women’s health, continuity of care, and community service. I value being the first point of contact for patients providing clear, compassionate guidance, addressing a broad range of concerns, and triaging appropriately. Committed to building lasting, trusted relationships across all stages of life.

California Hospital Dignity Health, Ross University of Medicine 

Dr. Gudata Hinika                                        

January 2025- May 2025 

Case Reports 

• Eisaghalian A, Luna J, Hassid N, Grasso S, Hinika G. Case report: Concurrent Adult Hirschsprung disease and Achalasia. Poster presented at: RossMed Day, California Hospital Medical Center; May 1, 2025; Los Angeles, CA
• Eisaghalian A, Kaur S, Hassid N, Grasso S, Hinika G. Pleomorphic neoplasm. Poster presented at: RossMed Day, California Hospital Medical Center; May 1, 2025; Los Angeles, CA
• Hassid N, Meraz R, Eisaghalian A, Hinika G. Beyond the pediatric paradigm: a rare case of sporadic Burkitt lymphoma in an adult. Poster presented at: RossMed Day, California Hospital Medical Center; May 1, 2025; Los Angeles, CA
• Miller B, Eisaghalian A, Hassid N, Wu E. Polycystic liver disease masquerading as a pelvic mass: a diagnostic and surgical pitfall. Poster presented at: RossMed Day, California Hospital Medical Center; May 1, 2025; Los Angeles, CA
• Hassid N, Miller B, Eisaghalian A, Wu E. Krukenberg tumor in the setting of advanced breast cancer: a case report. Poster presented at: RossMed Day, California Hospital Medical Center; May 1, 2025; Los Angeles, CA
• Luna J, Eisaghalian A, Junaid F, Grasso S, Jones R. Survival after severe transabdominal gunshot wound: a case of multi-stage surgical resuscitation and recovery. Poster presented at: RossMed Day, California Hospital Medical Center; May 1, 2025; Los Angeles, CA
• Luna J, Eisaghalian A, Monthe Fossi J, Jones R. Traumatic pseudoaneurysm following a stab wound to the RUQ. Poster presented at: RossMed Day, California Hospital Medical Center

Harbor UCLA Medical Center LABioMed

Dr. Mina Desai                                                                                                

August 2016- August 2019 

Researcher, Adipose Imaging Specialist

Project 1: Fetal Programming of Adiposity in Low Birth Weight Offspring

• Investigated how intrauterine growth restriction predisposes offspring to adult obesity through altered adipocyte development, emphasizing the long-term impact of fetal environment on metabolic outcomes
• Conducted histological analysis of adipose tissue from LBW mouse models exposed to different ambient temperatures (22°C vs. 30°C); used ImageJ to quantify adipocyte hypertrophy and hyperplasia
• Analyzed over 300 tissue samples, demonstrating that thermogenesis impacts adiposity and cellular hypertrophy in both low birth weight (LBW) and control mice fed a regular diet, suggesting that obesity related changes may be underrecognized in recent murine studies
• Contributed to understanding of how maternal-fetal factors influence postnatal adipogenesis and lifelong obesity risk

Project 2: Impact of Maternal Obesity on Offspring Hypothalamic Development

• Studied the effects of maternal obesity on fetal brain development, particularly the programming of appetite-regulating neurons in the hypothalamic arcuate nucleus (ARC)
• Performed brain tissue sectioning and immunostaining; quantified POMC and NPY neuronal populations to assess appetite/satiety regulation in offspring
• Statistical analysis using repeated-measures ANOVA and unpaired t-tests revealed a significant reduction in ARC neuronal density and a decreased POMC/NPY ratio in offspring of obese dams
• Results highlighted the critical role of maternal metabolic status on fetal neurodevelopment, with implications for obesity prevention and prenatal counseling in OB/GYN practice

Leaders Engaging Against Disparities in Los Angeles (LEAD LA)

Dr. Cynthia Gonzalez 

August 2015 -August 2018

Co-founder & Research Chair

• Founded an annual health resource fair in Watts, integrating community service and research to address health disparities in an underserved population.
• Developed the fair’s research framework, designing a bilingual survey (400+ responses) to assess unmet health needs and perceptions of care.
• Expanded the fair over three years to reach 500+ residents and collaborate with 30+ local organizations providing screenings, vaccinations, and education.
• Coordinated IRB approval, cross-departmental logistics, and community grant funding to ensure ethical standards and operational success.
• Analyzed data using SAS; findings demonstrated a 65% increase in resource utilization and guided future outreach strategies.
• Presented results at the Xavier University Health Disparities Conference, contributing to public health discourse on combining service with research.

Eisaghalian A, Kaur S, Hassid N, Grasso S, Hinika G. High-Grade Pleomorphic Neoplasm of the Abdominal Wall: Diagnostic Challenges and the Role of Molecular Profiling. Oral Presentation at: RossMed Day, California Hospital Medical Center; May 1, 2025; Los Angeles

Agnlia Eisaghalian MS; C Gonzalez PhD; J Arias; Y Arroyo; O Huerta MS; A Munoz; E Cahn; C Sandoval; P Saldivar MS; H Tumoyan MS; DA

Urbano; LK Wright MS; D Kermah PhD; K Partlow PhD Promoting Health Equity Through Health and Resourcs Fair in South Los Angeles., Xavier University of Louisiana College, Health Disparities Conference, Louisiana, New Orleans, April 8-­­­10, 2019.

Agnlia Eisaghalian MS, Cheyenne Dickerson MS, Patrick Allahverdian, Monica Ferrini PhD, Michael G. Ross MD, MPH, Mina Desai

PhD.Programmed Adipocytes Contribute to Obesity in Low Birth Weight Offspring: Interaction with Ambient Temperature and Fat Depots.

American Federation of Medical Research, California, Carmel, January 25-27, 2018. 

Agnlia Eisaghalian MS, Cheyenne Dickerson MS, Patrick Allahverdian, Monica Ferrini PhD, Michael G. Ross MD, MPH, Mina Desai

PhD.Programmed Adipocytes Contribute to Obesity in Low Birth Weight Offspring: Interaction with Ambient Temperature and Fat Depots.Developmental origins of Health Disease (DOHaD) Conference, Michigan, Detroit, September 24-27, 2017.

Eisaghalian A, Luna J, Hassid N, Grasso S, Hinika G. Case report: Concurrent Adult Hirschsprung disease and achalasia. Poster presented at: RossMed Day, California Hospital Medical Center; May 1, 2025; Los Angeles, CA

Eisaghalian A, Kaur S, Hassid N, Grasso S, Hinika G. High-Grade Pleomorphic Neoplasm of the Abdominal Wall: Diagnostic Challenges and the Role of Molecular Profiling Oral Presentation at: RossMed Day, California Hospital Medical Center; May 1, 2025; Los Angeles, CA

Hassid N, Meraz R, Eisaghalian A, Hinika G. Beyond the pediatric paradigm: a rare case of sporadic Burkitt lymphoma in an adult. Poster presented at: RossMed Day, California Hospital Medical Center; May 1, 2025; Los Angeles, CA

Miller B, Eisaghalian A, Hassid N, Wu E. Polycystic liver disease masquerading as a pelvic mass: a diagnostic and surgical pitfall. Poster presented at: RossMed Day, California Hospital Medical Center; May 1, 2025; Los Angeles, CA

Hassid N, Miller B, Eisaghalian A, Wu E. Krukenberg tumor in the setting of advanced breast cancer: a case report. Poster presented at: RossMed Day, California Hospital Medical Center; May 1, 2025; Los Angeles, CA 

Luna J, Eisaghalian A, Junaid F, Grasso S, Jones R. Survival after severe transabdominal gunshot wound: a case of multi-stage surgical resuscitation and recovery. Poster presented at: RossMed Day, California Hospital Medical Center; May 1, 2025; Los Angeles, CA

Luna J, Eisaghalian A, Monthe Fossi J, Jones R. Traumatic pseudoaneurysm following a stab wound to the RUQ. Poster presented at: RossMed Day, California Hospital Medical Center; May 1, 2025; Los Angeles, CA

Agnlia Eisaghalian MS; C Gonzalez PhD; J Arias; Y Arroyo; O Huerta MS; A Munoz; E Cahn; C Sandoval; P Saldivar MS; H Tumoyan MS; DA

Urbano; LK Wright MS; D Kermah PhD; K Partlow PhD Promoting Health Equity Through Health and Resourcs Fair in South Los Angeles.,

Xavier University of Louisiana College, Health Disparities Conference, Louisiana, New Orleans, April 8-­­­10, 2019.

P Saldivar; C Gonzalez; J Arias; Y Arroyo; E Cahn; Agnlia Eisaghalian; O Huerta; A Munoz; C Sandoval; H Tumoyan; DA Urbano; LK Wright; D

Kermah; K Partlow. Leaders Engaging Against Disparities, Los Angeles (LEAD-LA). Xavier University of Louisiana College, Health Disparities

Conference, Louisiana, New Orleans, April 8-10, 2019

Linda Wright MS, Agnlia Eisaghalian MS, Olivia Huerta MS, Autumn Johnson MS, Cynthia Gonzalez PhD. Health Fairs and Resources in Under-Resourced Neighborhoods. Xavier University of Louisiana College, Health Disparities Conference, Louisiana, New Orleans, April 19-20, 2018

Agnlia Eisaghalian MS, Cheyenne Dickerson MS, Patrick Allahverdian, Monica Ferrini PhD, Michael G. Ross MD, MPH, Mina Desai

PhD.Programmed Adipocytes Contribute to Obesity in Low Birth Weight Offspring: Interaction with Ambient Temperature and Fat Depots.

American Federation of Medical Research, California, Carmel, January 25-27, 2018. Developmental origins of Health Disease (DOHaD)

Conference, Michigan, Detroit, September 24-27, 2017.

Cheyenne Dickerson MS, Agnila Eisaghalian MS, Monica Ferrini PhD, Mina Desai PhD, Michael G. Ross MD, MPH. In Utero Exposure to

Maternal Obesity Programs Offspring Hyperphagia and Obesity. American Federation of Medical Research, California, Carmel, January 25-27, 2018. Developmental origins of Health Disease (DOHaD) Conference, Michigan, Detroit, September 24-27, 2017.

Adjunct Faculty – Cell Biology

Department of Biological Sciences, Charles Drew University

September 2019-January 2020

• Instructed upper-level Cell Biology course for undergraduate pre-medical and science majors as sole course lead.
• Developed and delivered original lectures, presentations, and assessments aligned with academic learning outcomes.
• Created course syllabus and exams (quizzes, midterm, and final), integrating evidence-based teaching practices.
• Managed all grading and academic advising, providing individualized mentorship to support student success.
• Promoted critical thinking and application of cell biology to real-world biomedical and clinical contexts.
• Gained valuable experience in academic leadership, curriculum design, and fostering learner development—skills directly transferable to medical education.

Teaching Assistant-Calculus 

Department of Mathematics, Glendale Community College

Summer of 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017

• Provided one-on-one and group support to undergraduate students in Calculus I and II, with a focus on interpreting and solving word problems.
• Translated mathematical terminology and problem sets from English into Armenian and Farsi to support multilingual students in understanding core concepts.
• Identified that many students had adequate mathematical skills but lacked confidence or clarity in language-based problem-solving; offered tailored guidance to help them demonstrate their true ability.
• Created a supportive learning environment that emphasized conceptual understanding and independent thinking.
• Collaborated with faculty to develop review materials and enhance inclusivity in math instruction.

Swim Instructor
YMCA, Private

Summers of 2014-2018, Summers of 2022-2024

• Taught swimming and water safety to children and adults, including neurodiverse learners, in both group and individual settings.
• Collaborated closely with parents to align goals and expectations, providing monthly progress updates to ensure transparency and prevent performance-related surprises.
• Adapted instructional strategies for children with autism by incorporating visual aids, face-focused tubes, and peer-assisted learning to enhance engagement and trust.
• Fostered a positive, inclusive learning environment tailored to each student's abilities and communication style.
• Strengthened skills in behavior management, family communication, and student-centered teaching.

Volunteer – Senior Companion Program (COVID-19 Response)
Michigan | 2021, 2022

• Participated in virtual volunteer outreach during the COVID-19 pandemic, providing regular video calls to socially isolated residents of a local nursing home.
• Offered companionship, conversation, and emotional support to promote mental well-being and reduce loneliness among older adults.
• Gained deeper understanding of the importance of empathy and human connection in improving quality of life, especially in vulnerable and aging populations.

Global Health Volunteer – Healing Hearts Across Borders
Tijuana, Mexico | Monthly and Weekend Clinics | Year 2016–2019

• Volunteered over three years with a binational medical team providing care to underserved populations in Tijuana, including recurring clinics at a men’s shelter.
• Participated in monthly week-long and intensive weekend clinics focused on managing chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension.
• Conducted patient interviews, translated between Spanish, English, and medical teams, and collaborated with physicians on treatment planning and medication prescribing using donated U.S. supplies.
• Maintained continuity of care by reviewing patient charts at each visit, enabling consistent monitoring and individualized follow-up despite the international setting.
• Provided direct care for foot wounds, particularly in diabetic patients, including cleaning, dressing, and educating patients on prevention to reduce risk of infection and complications.
• Developed strong skills in cross-cultural communication, clinical problem-solving in resource-limited environments, and team-based care.

Founder & Camp Counselor – Camp Kesem at UC Irvine

Irvine, CA | Years 2014, 2015

• Established the UC Irvine chapter of Camp Kesem, a national nonprofit supporting children through and beyond a parent's cancer diagnosis.
• Recruited and trained a team of student volunteers to organize and execute a free, week-long summer camp for children aged 6–18, providing a supportive community and fun-filled activities.
• Led fundraising initiatives and community outreach to ensure the camp's sustainability and growth.
• Served as a camp counselor, facilitating activities and providing emotional support to campers, fostering resilience and peer connections

Volunteer – Arthritis Foundation
Irvine, CA | Year 2015

• Supported fundraising and awareness efforts following a family member’s diagnosis with ankylosing spondylitis, including organizing and participating in the annual Walk to Cure Arthritis.
• Assisted with event logistics, community outreach, and patient education initiatives aimed at promoting advocacy and support for individuals living with chronic rheumatologic conditions.

Best Poster Presentation- Ross University, Dignity Health California Hospital | 2025

Awarded 1st place out of 50 posters for excellence in research presentation and communication, Ross Med Day

3rd Place Oral Research Presentation- Ross University, Dignity Health California Hospital | 2025

Earned recognition for excellence in research communication among 8 finalists, Ross Med Day

Outstanding Thesis Defense Award – Charles Drew University, Los Angeles | 2018

Recognized for delivering the most distinguished thesis defense in the graduating cohort.

Dean’s List – Charles Drew University, Los Angeles | 2016-2017
Recognized for academic excellence

Excellence in Teaching Award – YMCA | Summers of 2014, 2016
Awarded for outstanding performance as a swim instructor 

Published Work: 

Desai M, Torsoni AS, Torsoni MA, Eisaghalian A, Ferrini MG, Ross MG. Thermoneutrality effects on developmental programming of obesity. Journal of Developmental Origins of Health and Disease. 2023;14(2):223-230. doi:10.1017/S2040174422000502