• Assist in the development of aptamers for biomedical targets by utilizing artificially expanded and evolvable oligonucleotides• Vet and implement synthetic nucleotides for the purpose of novel DNA technologies

• Worked with a small team of horticulturists to embellish and maintain a 28-acre public garden

• Operated and vetted (PathogenDX) endpoint PCR-microarray assays for the detection/ quantitation of fungal and bacterial microbes in hemp based samples• Trained and positioned as an auxiliary analyst for terpene extraction and quantitation using GCMS methods

• Operated in the Plant Biotechnology lab, while collaborating with the Blueberry Breeding program• Performed analytical chemistry methods (GCMS, LCMS) to characterize blueberry metabolites (sugars and volatile compounds) • Consolidated, fortified, and helped analyze six years of blueberry sensory and biochemistry data• Planned and initiated projects to elucidate the genetic control of flesh color (anthocyanins) in deerberry (Vaccinium stamineum) using QTL and RNA-seq type experiments• Assisted with routine breeding and horticulture maintenance tasks for the blueberry breeding program• Trained on auxiliary projects, such as running GWAS analysis on flavor associated compounds in tomato, and developing LCMS methods for phenolic quantitation in petunia • Fulfilled all required coursework and passed qualifying exams

• Maintained fungal and bacterial cultures – plant pathogens and biological control agents• Prepared cultures for in-vitro and in-vivo (greenhouse) assays and assisted in testing the efficacy of new treatments • Rated and quantified pathogen infection and disease state of plants in experimental tests• Isolated plant pathogens from plant tissue

• Initiated and developed plant tissue culture methods for Stevia rebaudiana; point person for plant propagation, protoplast isolation, regeneration, and evaluation• Helped advance Chromocell’s core-technology from mammalian cells to plant cells with a small team of scientists• Received basic training in flow cytometry and microscopy

• Worked in a team environment to carry out laboratory maintenance, mammalian cell culture passages, assay-plating, and cryostorage

• Studied under Dr. Kerkhof for the summer module of the NSF Biotechnology Scholars program• Used stable isotope probing, PCR tools, and TRFLP to help determine active bacteria and archaea species in marine and terrestrial samples

• Prepared solutions and medias, set up laboratory for upper level biotechnology courses• Validated performance by carrying out laboratory experiments; performed PCR, RT-qPCR, gel electrophoresis, DNA, RNA, and miniprep plasmid extractions, and microbial cell culture