With a background in molecular and cell biology, I have learned about science from hands-on experiments to data analysis. It has been a privilege to apply that to the public good with my current work in forensic biology.During basic research at university studying how a protein affects cell growth (with potential application to cancer), I learned standard molecular biology techniques to analyze DNA, RNA, and proteins. The results from my work were written as chapters in a dissertation book, and the research was presented for my defense.I was later able to use that background and experience in a research fellowship at the FBI Laboratory. That fellowship introduced me to the world of forensic science with projects to explore messenger RNA as a way to identify body fluids such as blood and semen, microarrays as a method for identifying SNPs, and enzymatic procedures for extracting mitochondrial DNA from hair shafts.The fellowship led to my subsequent role as a forensic DNA analyst with the Washington State Patrol Crime Laboratory. There I performed casework from crime evidence examination to analysis of DNA profiles and authoring of case reports. The application of that work for the public benefit was evident when I have testified in court to help educate a jury about scientific matters.Following that role, I joined Sorenson Forensics as a biotechnical solutions scientist. That opportunity allowed me to visit other laboratories across the United States to help clients incorporate new DNA analysis kits and instruments for casework and also allowed them to focus more on processing evidence to solve criminal cases.I was later provided the opportunity to serve for a time as DNA Technical Leader at Sorenson Forensics. The position allowed me to ensure that science is performed correctly to analyze evidence so that the results are admissible in court. With oversight of training, proficiency testing, and bringing new analytical methods online, I had the role of helping others apply science to the public good.Lab Bench Experience:• Analysis of DNA, RNA, and proteins.• Studied cells in tissue culture.• Worked with mouse models.• Examined crime scene evidence.Scientific Analytical Experience:• Reviewed articles for peer-reviewed journals with editorial comments, corrections, and suggestions.• Searched for reports in scientific literature with resource such as PubMed.Scientific Communication:• Oral and poster presentations at various national and regional meetings.• Writing of crime lab reports with results and conclusions.
Listed skills include Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Dna Analysis, Cell Culture, and 14 others.