Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Languages
Interests
Software
Quote
Work Preference
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Work Availability
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E. Kristen Best

E. Kristen Best

Katy,TX

Summary

With almost seven years in research and an additional five years teaching, I have a deep understanding of scientific principles and theory, laboratory techniques, and best practices for teaching science curricula. My laboratory experience spans designing experiments and improving protocols using molecular biology and biochemistry techniques, laboratory safety, scientific writing, presentation of work and collaboration with other professionals. In teaching, this translates to fostering inquiry-based learning and flexible student learning groups which has been proven to significantly enhance student engagement and comprehension.

As a researcher, I strove to improve my understanding of best scientific practices, such as commonly used laboratory techniques and writing, while also exploring pertinent new areas of research and new technological advances in the field. I have a strong background in research and am competent in most common molecular biology techniques, such as PCR, Western blot, immunoassays, cell culture assays, RNA/DNA analysis, FACS sorting and fluorescent probes, histology, as well as more innovative techniques such as whole organ 3D immunofluorescence imaging and 3D cell culture studies using matrixes/ex vivo studies. Experience includes work with microbial agents, vectors, eukaryotic/animal cells, cell lines, and human tissue/cells. Achievements include multiple research awards/grants in college and presentation of work at conferences and meetings with peers/seniors. I taught other research students, like summer interns and incoming graduate research assistants, and enjoyed collaborating with different medical professionals (doctors, research professionals, epidemiologists, computer data analysts) to address research hypotheses and research goals intended in grants.

As a science teacher, I strove to invite students into the space of "thinking like a scientist" and leading science instruction with a hands-on 3D learning approach. Lectures empathized questions, demonstrations, and problem-solving skills where students synthesized learning, developed conclusions about what they observed, and the class formed a deeper understanding of the topic. Laboratory experiments, laboratory reports, and inquiry-based learning with flexible grouping were instructional strategies that I heavily empathized. I have five years of experience teaching Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Astronomy, and Aquatic Science. I plan and deliver science curriculum in a department and individual setting that includes demonstrations, lectures, discussion and student experiments to develop language, logic and problem-solving skills in classroom. A variety of research-based instructional practices and current resources to support instructional goals and student needs were used and it was an intentional goal of mine to be reading and caught up on any pertinent research in the field. Most recently, I thoroughly enjoyed being able to collaborate on curriculum design and implementation for the district for Chemistry. Helping make science come alive and advocating science education for all is a strong passion of mine. In the future, I hope to be able to offer my skillset and knowledge in a manner that allows me to continue to serve that fundamental ideal and belief that education is important and science literacy is crucial, whether advocating as a laboratory based scientific professional or an educational professional. As Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson said, "If you are scientifically literate, the world looks very different to you... and that understanding empowers you."

Overview

11
11
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Science Teacher (Chemistry, Astronomy, and More)

CFISD
08.2021 - 06.2025
  • Analyzed and advocated for curriculum implementation as an active member of curriculum development team for the district for Chemistry (2022-2024)
  • Engaged in leadership by volunteering to participate in the Mustang Leadership Academy, Da Vinci Day, CPOC Committee, and more.
  • Planned, prepared, and taught lesson plans, giving students individual support.
  • Delivered interactive lessons (based on 3D learning and investigation based learning) to help students comprehend complex concepts.
  • Participated in team meetings for the campus science department and professional development workshops to stay updated on current research findings and best practices in science education.
  • Incorporated project-based learning into the curriculum, challenging students to apply scientific principles in real-world situations while developing teamwork skills.
  • Led after-school tutoring sessions for struggling learners; provided personalized support that contributed to marked improvements in overall understanding of course material.
  • Encouraged student participation in laboratory experiments to enhance scientific knowledge.
  • Developed and implemented assessment tools to track student progress, identifying areas of improvement and adjusting instruction accordingly.

Science Teacher (Chemistry, Biology, and Physics)

HISD
08.2019 - 07.2021
  • Designed innovative science curricula to engage 150+ students and promote critical thinking.
  • Implemented inquiry-based learning techniques in the classroom, promoting curiosity and active engagement among students.
  • Provided constructive feedback on assignments, helping students improve their critical thinking and problem-solving skills in science.
  • Encouraged student participation in laboratory experiments to enhance scientific knowledge.
  • Demonstrated positive and effective classroom management skills.
  • Communicated with students and parents regarding academic progress, assignments, and behavior.
  • Improved student comprehension by employing diverse teaching strategies and adapting lesson plans to meet individual needs.

Graduate Research Assistant

MD Anderson/ UT Health
07.2013 - 04.2017
  • Research Project: The role of mesenchymal cells in lung cancer initiation, development, progression, and malignancy.
  • Participated in regular meetings with project supervisors, providing progress updates and discussing potential challenges or areas for improvement.
  • Planned, modified and executed research techniques, procedures and tests.
  • Assisted in manuscript preparation, contributing to the publication of influential articles in peer-reviewed journals.
  • Enhanced research quality by conducting thorough literature reviews and synthesizing findings.
  • Managed multiple research projects simultaneously, ensuring timely completion and adherence to high-quality standards.
  • Contributed to the development of research proposals, securing funding for critical projects.
  • Followed strict safety protocols, protecting staff and assets while carrying out technical procedures and research protocols.
  • Skills: Immunolabeling and Immunoassays (Fluorescence and Histology), In vivo assays like gene regulation in tumor development, mortality, and normal tissue development, In vitro assays like 2D and 3D cell assays, Cell Flow Cytometry and Cell Sorting (FACS), PCR, Western/Northern/Southern Blot, 3D organ assays imaging, and more.

Undergraduate Research Assistant

Oklahoma State University (Scholarship/Grant-fund)
09.2010 - 06.2013
  • Research Project: The effect of calcium on pathogenesis of Pseudomonas aeruginosa
  • Recorded data and maintained source documentation following good documentation practices.
  • Maintained detailed records of all experiments conducted, ensuring easy accessibility and proper documentation procedures were followed.
  • Developed skills in various research methodologies, ensuring high-quality work across diverse projects.
  • Contributed to the completion of multiple research projects, managing time effectively to meet deadlines.
  • Participated in regular lab meetings, contributing valuable insights and suggestions for ongoing projects.
  • Compiled data into reports and disseminated to supervisor for review.
  • Supported faculty researchers, assisting with experiment design and implementation.
  • Planned, modified and executed research techniques, procedures and tests.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Microbiology & Molecular Genetics, Spanish

Oklahoma State University
Stillwater, OK
05-2013

Skills

  • Research and analytical thinking
  • Inquiry-based learning
  • Collaboration and group project coordination
  • Scientific technical writing
  • Experimental design and testing hypotheses
  • Presentation skills
  • Strong work ethic
  • Curriculum and lesson plan design
  • Online and in-person instruction
  • Small group learning and discussion facilitation
  • Molecular Biochemistry theory and techniques
  • Scientific methodology

Certification

  • [Science Teacher Certification, State of Texas]
  • CPR/AED Certification
  • ServSafe Food Handler's Certification


Languages

English
Native or Bilingual
Spanish
Professional Working
Italian
Elementary

Interests

  • Gardening
  • Backpacking
  • Hiking
  • Camping
  • Volunteering
  • Outdoor Recreation
  • Yoga
  • Regularly practice mindfulness and meditation for overall wellness
  • Mindfulness Practices
  • Dancing
  • High-Intensity Interval Training
  • Exploring famous landmarks, historical sites, and cultural attractions in a new destination
  • Youth Development Programs
  • Getting involved in local advocacy groups to promote positive change in the community
  • Offering time and support to shelters for the homeless, women, and animals
  • Environmental Stewardship
  • Environmental Conservation Projects
  • Participating in fundraising events to support local charities, schools, or community projects

Software

Microsoft office

DNA and protein analysis software

Quote

Try not to become a man of success. Rather become a man of value.
Albert Einstein

Work Preference

Work Type

Full TimePart Time

Work Location

On-SiteRemoteHybrid

Important To Me

Company CultureWork-life balance

Affiliations

  • American Chemical Society
  • American Association of Chemistry Teachers
  • American Society of Microbiology

Work Availability

monday
tuesday
wednesday
thursday
friday
saturday
sunday
morning
afternoon
evening
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Timeline

Science Teacher (Chemistry, Astronomy, and More)

CFISD
08.2021 - 06.2025

Science Teacher (Chemistry, Biology, and Physics)

HISD
08.2019 - 07.2021

Graduate Research Assistant

MD Anderson/ UT Health
07.2013 - 04.2017

Undergraduate Research Assistant

Oklahoma State University (Scholarship/Grant-fund)
09.2010 - 06.2013

Bachelor of Science - Microbiology & Molecular Genetics, Spanish

Oklahoma State University
E. Kristen Best