Hannah Benvenuto

Motivated and research-driven scientist with two years of hands-on experience in microbial physiology, metabolism, and molecular biology. Skilled in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication. Seeking a research-oriented opportunity that fosters interdisciplinary collaboration, scientific curiosity, and innovation in biotechnology, healthcare, environmental science, or industrial applications.

Undergraduate Research Associate

Dr. Birgit Alber, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 09/23 - 05/25

• Investigated potential bypass mechanisms to pyruvate carboxylase (PycA) in central carbon metabolism utilizing the model microorganism Cereibacter sphaeroides.
• Designed a pycA in-frame deletion mutant and isolated suppressor mutants capable of compensating for the loss of this enzyme during growth with substrates expected to need PycA for carbon assimilation and biomass production. Allowing for the identification of common mutations while maintaining a clean genetic background, ensuring precise analysis and enabling further genetic manipulation.

Metabolic Adaptations in Cereibacter sphaeroides: Bypassing Pyruvate Carboxylase for Carbon Assimilation

American Society for Microbiology, Ohio Branch, Otterbein University, April 2025 and

From Pipettes to Progress: The Ohio State University Science Banquet, April 2025.

• Presented summarized findings of undergraduate research and senior thesis which investigated how C. sphaeroides adapts its central carbon metabolism in the absence of pyruvate carboxylase. The work highlighted potential bypasses and genetic mechanisms within central carbon metabolism contributing to our understanding of microbial metabolic flexibility.

Overview of Bacteriophage JonJames' Genome

Center for Life Sciences Poster Session, The Ohio State University, March 2023.

• Presented and annotated a bacteriophage isolated at Ohio State University that infects Gordonia terrae. Utilized bioinformatic tools including DNA Master, PhagesDB, GeneMarkS, HHPred, Aragorn, and Phamerator to explore genomic similarities with other phages. Identifying a programmed translational frameshift at tail assembly chaperone genes and multiple conserved tRNA genes.

Water Striders Interactions Based on Food Availability

Biology: Form, Function, Diversity, and Ecology Laboratory, The Ohio State University, November, 2022.

Preparatory team and assistant Teaching Assistant     

SEA-PHAGES Laboratory, The Ohio State University, 8/2023 - 5/2025

• Assisted students in laboratory sections by reinforcing the importance of aseptic technique and aiding in the identification of bacteriophage plaques.
• As a member of the preparatory team, I was responsible for preparing essential supplies for upcoming laboratory sessions, including phage buffer, top agar, agar culture plates, and sterile tubes and tips.

Mentor for Organic Chemistry 2510, 01/2023 - 05/2025. 

• Advised students on coursework, labs, and academic planning.

Chimes Junior Class Honorary, 03/23 - 08/24. 

• Honors society with a strong emphasis on volunteering and community service. Volunteered with Mid-Ohio Food Bank & CRIS, organized community fundraisers.

The Body Project Facilitator, 08/22 - 05/23. 

• Delivered interactive body neutrality workshops with OSU Wellness Center.

• National Buckeye Scholarship, The Ohio State University, 4/2021 - 5/2025
• The Ohio State University Dean's List, The Ohio State University, 1/2022 - 5/2025