Karina A. Email & Phone Number

United States

United States

Chicago, Illinois, United States

School Of Forest Resources Molecular Genetics & Biotechnology Laboratory

Advisor: Dr. Oliver Gailing Project Objective: Developing superior tree genotypes for medium to long-term dedicated wood feedstockAssisted graduate students in PCR and gel electrophoresisMethodically collected & measured balsam poplar leaf samplesCreated leaf additions to an ongoing sample inventoryGathered data on stomatal density in poplar leaves as part of the phenotypic assessment of specimens developed for enhanced bioenergy production

Chicago, Illinois, United States

Project Description: Worked on the Just Transition campaign focusing on the extractive economy of the Little Village neighborhood on Chicago's West Side. A Just Transition framework focuses on shifting to a regenerative economy, where ecological and social well being are prioritized. I researched designated truck routes in the neighborhood and took surveys on truck presence to understand street congestion. I gained knowledge on the local intermodal facilities and industries negatively… Show more Project Description: Worked on the Just Transition campaign focusing on the extractive economy of the Little Village neighborhood on Chicago's West Side. A Just Transition framework focuses on shifting to a regenerative economy, where ecological and social well being are prioritized. I researched designated truck routes in the neighborhood and took surveys on truck presence to understand street congestion. I gained knowledge on the local intermodal facilities and industries negatively impacting the neighborhood. Show less

Greater Chicago Area

Research assistant through the Department of Conservation & Research at John G. Shedd AquariumProject Description: Assessment on ecologically poor woodlands and wetlands to measure the impact of habitat restoration on amphibian populations-Mark-recapture survey on local salamander populations using a photo-recognition software to track salamanders (Wild-ID)-Breeding pond study on tadpole populations in ephemeral ponds-Conducted vegetation surveys to establish current… Show more Research assistant through the Department of Conservation & Research at John G. Shedd AquariumProject Description: Assessment on ecologically poor woodlands and wetlands to measure the impact of habitat restoration on amphibian populations-Mark-recapture survey on local salamander populations using a photo-recognition software to track salamanders (Wild-ID)-Breeding pond study on tadpole populations in ephemeral ponds-Conducted vegetation surveys to establish current concentrations-Seed collecting of local vegetation to build a stock for future restoration Show less

Greater Chicago Area

Assisted with the “Teenagers Exploring and Explaining Nature and Science” (TEENS) program through After School MattersDescription: Implemented an inquiry-based curriculum emphasizing environmental science and ecological concepts. Lab and field techniques included microscopy, mobile data collection, digital mapping, data visualizations, and analysis. There was a focus on citizen science research during the program, which helped shaped the final group projects where I provided insight… Show more Assisted with the “Teenagers Exploring and Explaining Nature and Science” (TEENS) program through After School MattersDescription: Implemented an inquiry-based curriculum emphasizing environmental science and ecological concepts. Lab and field techniques included microscopy, mobile data collection, digital mapping, data visualizations, and analysis. There was a focus on citizen science research during the program, which helped shaped the final group projects where I provided insight from personal research experience. Show less

Greater Chicago Area

Conducted an independent campaign project focusing on Brownfield Redevelopment and Composting Description: Learned about environmental justice and its capacity in Chicago neighborhoods. The campaign specifically focused on a former superfund site in the neighborhood and its successful redevelopment. Program outreach by creating meaningful relationships with local vendors who would benefit from LVEJO's future redevelopment projects. Created a survey to gain insight on Chicago… Show more Conducted an independent campaign project focusing on Brownfield Redevelopment and Composting Description: Learned about environmental justice and its capacity in Chicago neighborhoods. The campaign specifically focused on a former superfund site in the neighborhood and its successful redevelopment. Program outreach by creating meaningful relationships with local vendors who would benefit from LVEJO's future redevelopment projects. Created a survey to gain insight on Chicago vendor-police relationships. Final project was an educational resource for children based on the campaign Show less

Greater Chicago Area

Completed the Teen Work Study Program (Shedd Ambassador) Description: Professionally represented the institution on the floor and behind the scenes. Ensured a positive guest experience through educational interactions. Daily interpretation of marine wildlife with guests using biomaterials at various exhibits. Monitored well being of live specimens for public interaction (e.g. stergeon, sea stars, sea urchins).

Greater Chicago Area

Completed an independent research project through the Urban Wildlife Institute at Lincoln Park Zoo. Project Desciption: Species richness and evenness survey of indicator species to provide insight on the health of urban ecosystems -Surveys on local dragonfly and butterfly species at two man-made ponds near the zoo. Survey included -Population surveys (learned to ID local species) -Behavioral surveys with ethograms -Additional animal… Show more Completed an independent research project through the Urban Wildlife Institute at Lincoln Park Zoo. Project Desciption: Species richness and evenness survey of indicator species to provide insight on the health of urban ecosystems -Surveys on local dragonfly and butterfly species at two man-made ponds near the zoo. Survey included -Population surveys (learned to ID local species) -Behavioral surveys with ethograms -Additional animal monitoring for local wildlife (Black-Crowned Night Herons, freshwater turtles)-Aided in data entry-Assisted in a G.U.D. (Giving Up Density) project for local rabbit populations Show less

Brookfield, Illinois

-Gained knowledge on wildlife conservation and research in AZA orgranizations-Daily interpretation using bio-materials-Fulfilled program's annual 120 volunteer hours

Bachelor Of Science - Bs, Biology

Activities and Societies: Molecular Genetics and Biotechnology Lab (Lab Tech) Order of Omega National Greek Honor Society Alpha Sigma Tau.

Education record

Activities and Societies: Key Club International, The Young Company Theater, Stand Up to Hunger Service Club, Yearbook