Georgia Grace Augustine

• Monitoring clinical and wastewater samples from Northern Arizona for Enteroviruses
• Performing extractions, pan assays, gel electrophoresis, sequencing preparation and next generation sequencing
• Working in designated clean laboratories and RNA hoods
• Maintaining lab hygiene and cleanliness by following proper protocols.

• Testing unpasteurized milk from local Arizona farms, sold in grocery stores, for pathogenic bacteria species.
• Culturing BSL-2 organisms on selective media.
• Created an experimental design from literature reviews, and wrote grant proposals.
• Performed targeted PCR and Sanger sequencing.

• Monitoring and preparing microbiology teaching labs.
• Coordinated workflow and managed resources to ensure the timely completion of assigned tasks.
• Worked with prepared BSL-2 organisms and chemicals.
• Utilized various machinery, such as autoclaves, centrifuges, biosafety cabinets, and media tools (Omnispense and Mediaclave, etc.), While following equipment maintenance procedures

• Monitored Aedes aegypti mosquito populations in Maricopa County for the presence of Flavi and Alpha viruses.
• Worked to detect the presence of a novel, insect-specific Flavivirus discovered by the VECTR core.
• Performed assay testing, sequencing preparation and Interpreted results and compiled reports with the data.

• Tested human fecal compost samples for the presence and abundance of E
• Coli
• Collaborated with lead researcher and colleagues to design presence and absence test, as well as documenting results

• Laboratory Techniques: PCR, Sanger Sequencing, Micro pipetting, CRISPR/CAS-9, gel electrophoresis, Autoclaving, Aseptic Techniques, culturing bacteria, preparing media and reagents
• Assisted with class instruction to ensure students understanding of materials
• Performed daily laboratory maintenance activities such as cleaning, sterilizing, and organizing equipment.

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• Helped graduate students teach microbiology labs to undergraduate students
• Collaborated with lab manager and graduate teaching assistants to teach the microbiology students
• Properly disposed of biohazardous waste following lab safety protocol
• Acted as a liaison between students and faculty, facilitating communication and understanding.