Cassandra Benson
B.S. in Biotechnology
Foster City,CA
Summary
Undergraduate biotechnology researcher combining wet-lab execution with computational genomic analysis. Investigated transposable elements using Linux-based data handling, scripting, and large genomic dataset analysis. Delivered lab support through PCR, plasmid purification, cell culturing, and transfection.
Overview
1
1
Language
1
1
Certification
1
1
year of professional experience
Work History
Undergraduate Researcher
Dr. Peter Arensburger Lab – Cal Poly Pomona
08.2025 - Current
- Utilized bioinformatics pipelines and command-line scripting to efficiently manage and analyze large genomic datasets, contributing to research outcomes.
- Investigated transposable elements in the genome of common house spider (Parasteatoda tepidariorum) using Linux to advance understanding of genetic mechanisms.
- Preparing to present research findings at Research Symposium Spring 2026 to share insights with the academic community.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Biotechnology
California Polytechnic University
Pomona05-2027
High School Diploma -
San Mateo Union High
San Mateo05-2023
Skills
- PCR and plasmid purification
- Restriction enzyme mapping
- Transformation efficiency
- Protein assays
- Bioinformatics analysis
- Molecular biology techniques
- Data visualization
- Gel electrophoresis
- Linux and Galaxy
- Genomic data analysis
- Research methodology
- Reporting and documentation
- Java programming
Projects
Semester Microbiology Project – Bacterial Identification (Cal Poly Pomona, 2024-2025)
Identified an unknown bacterial species using morphology, staining, and biochemical assays.
Languages
English
Native/ Bilingual
Certification
- Student Success Mentor Training - Mentor Collective
Affiliations
- Participation in Art Exhibits - Zoetic Tapestry Project
- Mentoring First-Year Students - California Polytechnic University, Pomona
Timeline
Undergraduate Researcher
Dr. Peter Arensburger Lab – Cal Poly Pomona
08.2025 - Current
Bachelor of Science - Biotechnology
California Polytechnic University
High School Diploma -
San Mateo Union High