In cohorts with Sacramento States Sustainable Interdisciplinary Research to Inspire Undergraduate Success (SIRIUS), I implemented classical and molecular approaches to enumerate and characterize fecal coliforms and their associated virulent factors. This involved the identification of gram-negative, facultative anaerobic, non-spore-forming rods capable of producing gas during lactose fermentation, utilizing beta-galactosidase to cleave lactose. Additionally, I conducted routine biochemical experiments using various methods such as the Colilert and Petri film system, MAC agar, Nitrate Reduction, BCP sugar fermentation, IMViC, Ornithine decarboxylase, Lysine Iron Agar, and Urease tests to classify inorganic and organic metabolic pathways of American River isolates. Phenotypic traits of microbial isolates were further analyzed on 10% TSA agar through techniques including Gram staining, KOH, Schaeffer-Fulton method, Semisolid Motility test, and Antibiotic susceptibility (MIC)

Designed 16s rRNA primer targets of American River microbes for PCR. Subsequently, I cloned the resulting PCR products into commercially viable vectors, specifically pCR™2.1, using E. coli transformants. To assess microbial diversity, I extracted and enzymatically digested the recombinant E. coli plasmids obtained from kanamycin media. I then conducted gel electrophoresis to separate and visualize the digested fragments, followed by utilizing the BLAST database for sequence comparison and identification.

Throughout my professional experience, I have consistently contributed to improving business performance and achieving financial goals. By creating and executing quarterly agendas, I successfully drove a 1.5% annual increase YOY in top-line sales, while effectively adhering to bottom-line budgeting requirements. As an overseer of day-to-day store operations, I managed sales, finance, and customer service functions, ensuring their efficient and profitable performance. Additionally, I prioritized fostering a positive and inclusive work environment that promoted employee engagement, while also providing training, performance management, and succession planning. Lastly, I enforced and strictly adhered to CDC guidelines, implementing comprehensive COVID-19 safety measures to prioritize the well-being of staff and customers alike