Austin Petfalski
Ames,IA
Summary
Personable and detail-oriented individual with strong foundation in academic research and data analysis. Possesses solid understanding of research methodologies and statistical analysis, along with proficiency in data collection and scientific writing. Capable of contributing to meaningful projects and communicating impactful results.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
Work History
Supplemental Instruction Leader
Iowa State University Academic Success Center
09.2024 - Current
- Promoted critical thinking skills by challenging students to analyze complex concepts and draw connections between various ideas.
- Collaborated with faculty members to identify areas where students needed additional support for improved academic performance.
- Participated actively in staff meetings to share best practices, discuss challenges, and explore potential solutions for instructional concerns.
- Demonstrated strong knowledge of school policies and program requirements.
Research Assistant
Iowa State University
01.2023 - Current
- Developed independent research module in collaboration with graduate students and principal investigator
- Organized research materials, maintaining a well-ordered workspace conducive to productivity.
- Participated actively in regular meetings with fellow researchers to discuss project updates, challenges faced, and lessons learned during ongoing activities.
- Designed and implemented Gibson Assembly cloning of fluorescent-tagged kinase
- Purified and characterized plasmid and PCR DNA constructs
- Mapped phosphorylation sites through phosphorylation assays couple with intact mass spectrometry
- Performed DNA binding affinity experiments through fluorescence polarization
- Presented research progress in the form of a poster at multiple symposiums
- Presented an oral presentation as a student speaker
- Synthesized complex information into clear summaries to make findings accessible to diverse audiences.
Biochemistry Summer Research Program - Assistant
Iowa State University
05.2024 - 07.2024
- Aided students in developing science communication skills
- Presented science communication strategies
- Assisted with planning and coordinating professional development lunches, social activities, and research showcase.
Biochemistry Summer Research Program - Research Fe
Iowa State University
05.2023 - 09.2023
- Refined ability to convey scientific concepts clearly.
- Developed a unique 'three-minute thesis" project
- Presented research results at research showcase, fostering professional relationships and collaborations.
- Maintained accurate records of experimental procedures and observations.
CNA
Heritage Senior Living - Muskego
07.2021 - 02.2023
- Answered call lights and supported patient comfort and safety by adjusting bed rails and equipment
- Promoted good oral and personal hygiene by aiding patients with shaving, bathing, and teeth brushing
- Checked patient vitals such as temperature, blood pressure and blood sugar levels
- Assisted with feeding and monitored intake to help patients achieve nutritional objectives
- Used restaurant-inspired strategies to establish rapport.
- Provided two sides of care: friendly, compassionate care that strengthened patients mentally, and straightforward, professional care that strengthened them physically
Education
Master of Arts - Biochemistry
05-2026
- Relevant Coursework: BBMB 5050 Amino Acids and Proteins, and BBMB 5060 Energetics and Metabolism
Bachelor of Science - Biochemistry
05.2026
- Research project under faculty mentor
- Relevant coursework: BBMB 2010 Chemical Principles in Biological Systems, CHEM 3310L Laboratory in Organic Chemistry I, CHEM 3320L Laboratory in Organic Chemistry II, BBMB 3120 Experimental Research Skills in Biochemistry, BBMB 3110 Writing Scientific Reports in Biochemistry
- 3.71 GPA
- Dean's List, 4 consecutive semesters (fall 2022 - spring 2023)
- Ana and Ed McCracken Scholarship Recipient
- Extracurricular Activities: media co-chair, publicity Chair, and design team lead for 2023 and 2024 Stupka Undergraduate Research Symposium Planning Committee
High School Diploma -
06.2022
- Awarded Scholar Athlete
- Completed AP course in psychology
- Graduate with High Distinction
- Elected Captain of Muskego High School Drum Line
- Completed relevant, college-level coursework in biology, chemistry and their respective labs
Skills
- One-on-one communication
- Attention to detail
- Research methods
- Writing Assessments
- Research Presentation
- Multitasking and organization
- Experimental Planning
- Microsoft office
- Qualitative Analysis
- Active learning
Accomplishments
- Delivered poster presentation on Mapping ATF4 Phosphorylation Sites by CKII at 2023 Norman Borlaug Poster Conference
- Delivered poster presentation on Mapping ATF4 Phosphorylation Sites by RET at 2024 GRASP NMR Conference
- Presented research on Transcriptional Regulation of ATF4 by Multisite Phosphorylation at 2024 Stupka Undergraduate Research Symposium.
- Dean's High Impact Award for Research, Iowa State University - Summer 2024
- Ana and Ed McCracken Research Scholarship, Iowa State University - Spring 2023 to Spring 2024
- Dean's list, 4 consecutive semesters (fall 2022 to spring 2023)
Languages
Spanish
Professional Working
Extracurricular activities
- Media Co-chair - 2023 Stupka Symposium Planning Committee
- Publicity Chair - 2024 Stupka Symposium Planning Committee
- 2023 and 2024 Stupka Symposium Promotional Video Director
- 2024 Stupka Symposium Design Team Leader
Timeline
Supplemental Instruction Leader - Iowa State University Academic Success Center
09.2024 - Current
Biochemistry Summer Research Program - Assistant - Iowa State University
05.2024 - 07.2024
Biochemistry Summer Research Program - Research Fe - Iowa State University
05.2023 - 09.2023
Research Assistant - Iowa State University
01.2023 - Current
CNA - Heritage Senior Living - Muskego
07.2021 - 02.2023
Muskego High School - High School Diploma,
Iowa State University - Master of Arts, Biochemistry
Iowa State University - Bachelor of Science, Biochemistry
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