Melanie Mitchell Email & Phone Number

Tangent, Or

Organize seed samples for experiment set-ups, perform experiments for seed quality improvement, record experiment procedures, and input experimental data.Prepare seed samples, operate UPLC system, report data on time and maintain UPLC system on a regular basis.

Albany, Oregon

Planted seed samples on various substrates using a 3 lb. vacuum planter system, lift 15 lb. trays, verify seed samples, and reduce samples using a divider, lifting minor weight in a pouring motion. Read and document seed samples with exceptional accuracy. Verified purity of seed before continuing seed count using an automated seed counter. Washed templates, beakers, and soil boxes used in germination testing with occasional use and exposure to household grade bleach.

Corvallis, Oregon Area

Processed animal samples for genetic analysis at species, subspecies, and population level dynamics.Established and maintained detailed and accurate records in laboratory notebook.Followed laboratory and research protocols in collecting, measuring, and reporting scientific data.Maintained computer files of detailed and accurate research findings.Alerted supervisors to procedural, technical, and logistical problems.Communicated and collaborated with technical and scientific staff as part of a multi-disciplinary team.Collected tissue samples from avian samples in stages of development ranging from embryonic to adult.Extracted genomic DNA from avian blood and tissue samples using a modified phenol/chloroform protocol and using the Qiagen Blood and Tissue Kit.Extracted genomic DNA from avian museum samples using the Qiagen Blood and Tissue Kit.Extracted genomic DNA from single hairs and multiple hairs from small mammals.Extracted genomic DNA from whole arthropods and arthropod tissue using the Qiagen Blood and Tissue Kit.Quantified DNA using Qubit platform.Performed polymerase chain reaction (PCR) of mitochondrial DNA loci.Performed PCR of microsatellite loci with Fluorescein labeled dCTP and with fluorescently labeled primers.Sexed avian samples via PCR.Performed gel electrophoresis of genomic DNA and PCR amplicons.Prepared Illumina libraries of avian and arthropod DNA for microsatellite development using the TruSeq DNA Sample Prep v.2 Low Throughput Protocol.Screened microsatellite loci for birds and arthropods.Analyzed microsatellite loci with GeneMapper software.Evaluated and aligned mitochondrial DNA sequences with BioEdit and Seqman software.Managed several projects in various stages of completion.Instructed and managed undergraduate assistants and visiting post-doctoral student.

Evaluated the genetic relationship and the host ranges of the downy mildews of hop (Pseudoperonospora humuli) and cucurbit (P. cubensis).Established and maintained detailed and accurate records in laboratory notebook.Maintained computer files of detailed and accurate research findings.Maintained isolates of the obligate parasites P. humuli and P. cubensis via weekly transfers.Performed and evaluated cross-inoculation studies.Alerted supervisors to procedural, technical, and logistical problems.Prepared complex scientific reports, manuscripts, and scientific presentations.Communicated and collaborated with technical and scientific staff as part of a multi-disciplinary team.Performed DNA extractions from various types of organismal tissue.Performed polymerase chain reaction (PCR).Programmed, operated, and maintained thermal cyclers used for PCR.Contributed to the ongoing development of quality assurance and quality control guidelines and standards for the analysis of PCR reactions to ensure accuracy and consistency in genetic studies.Used sequence analysis software to interpret sequencing chromatograms.Used sequence analysis software to analyze DNA sequences against in-house and GenBank databases.Performed general molecular biological techniques including bacterial plasmid isolation, DNA quantification, and basic DNA cloning.Operated various types of research equipment such as incubators, microscopes, sterile hoods, chemical hoods, autoclaves, and spectrophotometers.Assembled, evaluated, and prepared field and laboratory data for tabulation and analysis.Followed laboratory and research protocols in collecting, measuring, and reporting scientific data.Prepared sequencing data for sequence alignment and statistical analysis.Prepared DNA samples for sequencing.Performed phylogenetic analyses using multiple programs.Complied with quarantine regulations.Cryopreserved bacterial and oomycete cultures.Instructed and managed undergraduate assistants.

Prepared introductory lectures.Instructed classes of 40 to 50 students.Composed weekly quizzes.Proctored exams.Graded in-assignments and quizzes.Maintained student grades in Microsoft Excel.Created weekly study guides.Updated website with student resources and grades.Met with students for one-on-one instruction.

Master Of Science (M.S.), Botany/Plant Biology

Bachelor Of Science (B.S.), Biology