Experienced Biomedical Researcher and Animal Science Professional seeking a challenging laboratory assignment as a Research Assistant/Associate, focusing on Neurobiology Research

  Bachelor of Science, Biological Sciences, with emphasis in Microbiology and Animal Behavior from Illinois State University

  Highly experienced in working with/studying infectious diseases, and in research design, data analysis/recording and testing of animal cultures; knowledgeable in use of PCR equipment, pipetting, microscopy, spectrometry and DNA/RNA extraction

  Exceptional proficiencies in assuring lab safety, performing bioassays, adhering to SOPs, mammalian culture processing, critical thinking and use of all relevant computer software/programs and systems including MS Windows

  Experienced in steering work performance of multi-person team tasked with conducting field research; continually ensure strict adherence to all appropriate methodologies in support of assuring development and maintenance of highest levels of research standards

  Strong contributor and participant in multiple research internship assignments; was responsible for properly dissecting various specimen, noting and uploading appropriate observations into scientific journals, and preparing for display within University setting

Research Assistant Intern, Vector Disease Control, LLC, Chicago, IL 2014 - Present

         Hold comprehensive responsibilities for directing work performance of five-person intern team in delivering/setting 16 Gravid Mosquito Traps throughout Chicagoland region to develop stable mosquito collections.

         Collected and identified multiple species and gender, including using microscopy to study anatomy and physiology of over 500 mosquitoes.

         Utilize pipettes and pulverizing techniques to prepare samples for centrifuge, including preparing female specimen for RNA extraction, and use PCR equipment to test specimen for West Nile Virus; upload data into Zoonotic Disease Tracker database and continually maintain laboratory safety levels.

Research Apprentice, Avian Research Seminar, Bloomington, IL 2012

         In this assignment, collected ten intact bird samples; was responsible for de-feathering/skinning/dissecting by hand and with laboratory instruments.

         Skillfully analyzed contents of skull and internal organs to identify diet/gender/age; uploaded data into scientific journal and performed taxonomy techniques to prepare specimen for display in University archive.

Research Intern, Shedd Aquarium, Chicago, IL 2000

         During six-week training covering oceanography and water chemistry, participated in activities aboard research vessel in Bahamas; was tasked with exploring marine habitats including reefs, shipwrecks, mangrove swamps and bioluminescent blooms.

         Successfully collected over 100 marine animal specimen for identification/analysis; gained experience in dissecting brains/nervous systems of marine invertebrates, i.e. squid, sea jelly, seastars.

Server/Customer Service Specialist, Tavern on Rush, Chicago, IL 2015 - Present

         Expertly provide highest levels of customer service to ensure complete dining experience satisfaction in a fast-paced, high stress environment; responsibilities of managing six-table section include committing to memory all menu offerings, knowledgeability in optimal pairing of wine and food selections, interacting with colleagues to ensure seamless guest service, and prioritizing/executing multiple tasks simultaneously.

         When necessary, communicate any guest problems/issues to management to ensure prompt mitigation/remediation and guest satisfaction.

Illinois State University, Bloomington, IL

Bachelor of Science, Biological Sciences, Emphasis in Microbiology and Animal Behavior, 2012, 3.33 GPA

College of DuPage, Glen Ellyn, IL

General Studies, Biology Emphasis, 2007-2009

Biomedical Terminology, Anatomy, Physiology, Cell Biology, Statistics