She obtained PhD in Biochemistry from Washington State University working on the phenylpropanoid pathway in plants, and subsequently became interested in understanding the regulation of cytoprotective responses in mammals. She has co-authored more than 100 publications, some of which have been highlighted in commentaries and attracted nearly 8000 citations. Albena is the recipient of the 2011 Arthur C. Neish Young Investigator Award of the Phytochemical Society of North America. In her current research, which sits at the interface of Chemistry and Biology, Albena remains committed to working towards development of strategies for protection against chronic degenerative diseases.