Duties:Assist in elasmobranch gillnet surveys in five different locations in the Gulf of Mexico on the coastal waters near Panama City, FloridaTag and release caught elasmobranchsCut and clean shark vertebrae in the lab as preparation for sectioningParticipate in the shark population aging studies using banding patterns on sectioned vertebraeHad to discontinue the internship due to Hurricane Michael damage in mid-October

Duties:Set up, perform, and evaluate experiments related to axolotl biologyAssist with animal husbandry, amputations, and microscopy/imagingMaintain reagents in the lab and a clean lab benchAutoclave glassware for experimental useAssist with the other experiments and projects in the labSpecifics:I have worked 243 hours this summer on research projects to identify the molecular basis of three different diseases in the axolotl population.I have gained a substantial amount of experience with numerous techniques, including: DNA and RNA isolation, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), electrophoresis, DNA sequencing, cDNA synthesis, cloning, sequence analysis, tissue preparation, single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analysis, and more.I have developed effective communication skills and can work well as part of a team or individually as needed. I have recently co-authored a journal article featuring some of my work that is currently being submitted for review

• Worked over 300 hours on four different research projects involving axolotl biology• Formally presented my research from a completed project at the annual Showcase of Undergraduate Scholars at the University of Kentucky• Performed research individually and as part of a team• Developed effective communication skills

• Conducted 534 hours of research working on several projects using lamprey and axolotls as model organisms• Learned how to troubleshoot with a PACT embryo clearing protocol designed to allow for microscopy and imaging of fluorescently-tagged chromatin• Performed CRISPR/CAS9 knockout injections to evaluate the role(s) of the EED (Embryonic Ectoderm Development) gene during lamprey PGR (Programmed Genome Rearrangement)• Helped map the sex-determining locus in the axolotl genome • Formally presented my research to colleagues

• Tutored multiple student athletes in various subjects such as biology, chemistry, and math

• Worked with people, dealt with consumer transactions, and sold the Scorecard rewards card.

• Conducted 490 hours of research working with the True Check™ in vitro digestion system • Wrote a scientific report and gave a formal presentation of my research to coworkers• Gained experience with statistical analysis as well as using spectrophotometers and centrifuges• Maintained lab bench and prepared my own reagents• Worked individually and as part of a team

• Worked with people, dealt with consumer transactions, and sold the Target REDcard