Dahlia Kopycienski

· Collaborated with a team of researchers to identify factors affecting mosquito vector competence for Rift Valley Fever Virus, in a USDA-funded project

· Led molecular data collection for a project screening Colorado wild bat samples to detect and sequence coronavirus variants

· Obtained approval for work with select agents and toxins under the Federal Select Agent Program (FSAP) and certified to work in a Biosafety Level 3 (BSL-3) laboratory.

· Managed multiple synthetic biology research projects while serving as a Cell Biology Graduate Teaching Assistant.

· Developed the careers of multiple undergraduate students through close mentorship in a laboratory environment.

· Contributed to securing NSF Collaborative Research Grant #2334680, awarded over $700,000, by developing proof-of-concept and procuring preliminary data.

Demonstrated scientific literacy research through monthly presentations of research in lab-wide meetings

• Developed lectures, assignments, and learning aids to boost students' practical understanding of advanced molecular techniques
• Ensured an inclusive, hands-on lab experience where all students had equal opportunities to learn
• Encouraged a collaborative learning environment and open student engagement
• Graded assignments and lab reports with a focus on fairness and consistency
• Integrated career development opportunities into lecture content, highlighting research and industry pathways

• Led independent wet lab research and field operations in 2021 and 2022, contributing to project success
• Assisted in USDA-funded maize genetics research by training new employees and managing field schedules and progress reports for 2022
• Co-led field crews, improving team performance through clear communication, collaboration, and problem-solving under time constraints

• Lead a team of employees to effectively tutor and assist undergraduate students in higher education animal Biology/ Zoology

• Upheld CSU’s teaching effectiveness framework, promoting active learning methods

• Coordinated employee check-ins, monitored progress tracking, and implemented conflict resolution

Motivated an energetic and collaborative team environment

• Assisted in teaching a class of over two-hundred students, including creation of lecture slides and in-class activities.

• Taught supplemental learning groups to enhance student understanding of higher education Zoology

• Organized lesson plans and built creative learning activities that emphasized making connections to the impact of the course material.

Tutored students one-on-one, building lasting mentor-mentee relationships