Matthew Rienzo Email and Phone Number

Environmental MonitoringMicrobial IdentificationBioburden TestingMicrobial Content TestingMicrobial Limits TestingSterility Testing

Performed DNA extractions on microorganisms from freshwater lakesPerformed Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) on extracted DNAPerformed and aided in RNA ExtractionsBacterial CulturingFlow cytometry Microscopic Analysis of bacteria, cyanobacteria, and phytoplanktonSterilization/AutoclavingPerformed field research in Essex County, New Jersey for Master's Thesis project. Collected from freshwater ecosystems, performed DNA extractions and PCR on collected lake water to identify bacteria, cyanobacteria, and other phytoplankton. Performed microscopic analysis on each sample to further identify species. Developed a profile of each ecosystem to predict the frequency/occurrence of harmful algal blooms in the ecosystems. MicrobiologyCell Number QuantificationConfocal MicroscopyFluorescence MicroscopyQuantitative PCRPerformed heavy metal analysis on Synechococcus IU 625 cyanobacteria using Nickel as a stressor. Performed qPCR to identify the gene responsible for heavy metal sequestration. Performed microscopy to identify any morphological alterations due to heavy metal analysis. BioinformaticsDNA sequencing and sequence analysisPrimer design and validationBLAST GraphPad SoftwareStructural analysisImmunologyWestern Blot AnalysisELISADot Blot Analysis

Performing teaching duties in a laboratory setting for 18 to 20 students in several biological sciences courses including Anatomy & Physiology and ImmunologyPerform laboratory preparations (Preparing experiments for students, ensuring sufficient lab materials available)Hold office hours for one on one tutoring and mentoring of students

Reconstitution of various compounds and drugs Input 300 to 400 prescriptions into computer system dailyLearn and review drug interactions within the human body Interaction with area hospitals and doctors' offices