Highlights:Conducted a one-year temporal study on SAR planktonic protists, integrating DNA metabarcoding and bioinformatics tools (QIIME2, Galaxy, R Studio). Investigated the interaction of MMP-1 and PAR1 in breast cancer cells, utilizing confocal microscopy, Western blotting, and image analysis (ImageJ, R Studio). Received two Biology Graduate Fellowships, leading independent research on microbial diversity in a hypoxic estuary and seasonal shifts in SAR protists. Presented research at the MAMEA 2024 Annual Conference and co-authored a manuscript on protist seasonality for submission to an international peer-reviewed journal.

Skills:Research & Data Analysis, Laboratory Techniques, Report Writing, Microbial Culturing, R Programming, Galaxy Platform, Alpha & Beta Diversity Analysis, Environmental DNA (eDNA), Phylogenetic Analysis, Leadership

Goal:To contribute to the field of microbiology and environmental science by applying advanced research techniques in molecular biology, bioinformatics, and microbial ecology. Seeking opportunities in research, biotechnology, or environmental microbiology to analyze biodiversity, study microbial interactions, and develop innovative solutions for ecological and industrial applications.

Membership:UNICEF for Children (2019–2023) – Led fundraising and awareness campaigns. MAMEA (Mid-Atlantic Marine Education Association) – Presented at the 2024 annual conference. Hofstra Equestrian Team – Active team member, demonstrating commitment, leadership, and teamwork

Certification:OSHA Laboratory Safety Training: Initial Biosafety Training, Emergency and Incident Response to Biohazard Spills and Releases, Basic Introduction to Biosafety

Honor:Hofstra University Graduate Fellowship Award (2023, 2024) – Research on microbial biodiversity and SAR protists.

Microbiology Teaching Assistant 02/2023 - 11/2024
Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY United States
Industry: Department of Biology
Assisted faculty in conducting laboratory sessions, instructing students in microbiology and biology lab techniques, and grading assignments.
Set up equipment and materials for weekly laboratory sessions, ensuring all necessary reagents and supplies were prepared. Assisted students with understanding laboratory protocols, troubleshooting experiments, and clarifying scientific concepts. Conducted lab sessions for undergraduate students, teaching microbial culturing, PCR, microscopy, and DNA extraction techniques. Managed lab equipment, ensuring proper maintenance and preparation of materials.--
Microbiology Tutor 09/2022 - 05/22
Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY United States
Industry: Department of Biology
Provided academic support to students in microbiology, reinforcing key concepts and laboratory techniques.
Conducted one-on-one and group tutoring sessions, clarifying microbiology concepts and laboratory procedures. Helped students improve their understanding of microbial genetics, cell structure, and biochemical pathways. Assisted students with lab reports, research projects, and exam preparation. Adapted teaching methods to accommodate various learning styles, improving student performance and engagement--
Resident Assistant 08/2021 - 12/2024
Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY United States
Industry: Hofstra Residence Life
Mentored students in residential housing, organized programs, and fostered a safe, inclusive community.
Supervised first-year and international students, helping them transition to university life. Organized community events and academic/social programs to enhance student engagement. Mediated conflict resolution between roommates and peers. Assisted students in accessing campus resources, mental health support, and academic guidance. Enforced university policies and responded to emergencies as part of the residential life team.--

Hofstra University 08/2019 - 05/2023
Hempstead , NY, United States
Degree: Bachelor's Degree
Major:Biology
Minor:Art History
Completed coursework in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Genetics, Ecology, Evolution, Biochemistry, Bioinformatics, and Biostatistics, gaining expertise in DNA sequencing, PCR, microscopy, and statistical data analysis. Conducted research on microbial diversity in estuarine ecosystems, applying QIIME2, Galaxy, and R Studio. Served as a Teaching Assistant & Microbiology Tutor, mentoring students in lab techniques and experimental design. Awarded a Graduate Fellowship for Research on microbial communities.

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