Alberta Bossi

-Assisted in delivering undergraduate genetics coursework by supporting lecture sessions and reinforcing key concepts.
-Held office hours to provide one-on-one and group tutoring, clarifying complex topics such as Mendelian inheritance, molecular genetics, and gene regulation.
-Facilitated exam preparation through review sessions and guided problem-solving.
-Graded assignments, quizzes, and exams with attention to accuracy and fairness.
-Collaborated with faculty to improve instructional materials and ensure alignment with course objectives.
-Mentored students in developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills in genetics.

My current research focuses on bacterial gene regulation, specifically the Type VIIb Secretion System (T7bSS) in Staphylococcus aureus USA300, a clinically significant strain associated with antibiotic resistance. The T7bSS plays an important role in helping S. aureus adapt to stress, compete with other microbes, and potentially evade host defenses making it a target of interest in the fight against resistant pathogens. My research explores how this complex secretion machinery is regulated.

• Collaborated with team members to conduct and implement research studies.
• Data Collection
• Sample Handling
• Agarose Gel electrophoresis
• Western Blot
• General lab organization (organizing stored samples/labeling)
• Protein analysis and quantification
• Cloning Techniques: Proficient in molecular cloning techniques including restriction enzyme digestion, ligation, transformation, PCR amplification.
• Sterile Technique: Skilled in maintaining sterile environments during molecular cloning procedures.
• Plasmid Isolation
• Presentation
• Microbial Culture
• Nanodrop Operation
• Taking gel readings

Support undergraduate students in their practical coursework by facilitating hands-on experiments and promoting a deep understanding of genetic principles.
My responsibilities include:
-Instruction and Support: Guide students through laboratory protocols, providing instruction on techniques such as DNA extraction, PCR, and gel electrophoresis.
-Monitoring Experiments: Supervised student activities, ensuring adherence to safety regulations and proper methodologies while troubleshooting any issues that arose during experiments.
-Grading and Assessment: Evaluate students lab reports, practical skills, and exams offering constructive feedback to help improve their understanding of genetics concepts.

• Provided lessons in general education courses and build skills within strengths. Provided chemistry (general and organic), biology, and physics / preparation tutoring, helping students to achieve target grades. Employed diagnostic assessment tools to better understand student needs and capabilities. Produced written and updated teaching resources for different learning styles. Tracked student progress through regular assessments, provided feedback, and improved weak skill gaps. Set clear targets and delivered feedback to students and colleagues. Maximised student retention by providing innovative and stimulating learning experiences with precise results. Promoted academic success and enhanced learning experiences for students of varying capabilities.