Idah Mwongeli Mbithi
New London
Summary
Dedicated undergraduate research assistant with a passion for exploring and contributing to academic inquiries. Skilled in assisting with research projects, conducting literature reviews, and collecting data. Proficient in utilizing research methodologies and tools to support project objectives. .
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
Work History
Undergraduate Research Assistant - Microbial Ecology
Connecticut College
New London
06.2025 - 12.2025
- Conducted collaborative research on salt marsh microbial ecology
- Performed molecular biology techniques including DNA extraction, gel electrophoresis, and QPCR.
- Analyzed experimental data, identified methodological challenges, and adapted protocols to improve accuracy and reproducibility.
- Presented a scientific poster summarizing findings to faculty and peers.
- Conducted literature reviews to support ongoing research projects.
- Participated in weekly meetings to discuss project progress and findings.
- Traveled to field sites to collect and record data useful for study purposes.
- Prepared summaries of research findings and effectively presented them to supervisors.
Resident Assistant
Connecticut College
New London
06.2023 - 05.2025
- Served as a liaison between residents and Residential Life staff, addressing concerns and facilitating communication to support a cohesive residence hall community.
- Planned and led floor meetings, community-building events, and educational programs focused on student wellness, study skills, time management, and stress management.
- Enforced residence hall policies, conducted room inspections, and responded to incidents and emergency situations to promote resident safety and well-being.
- Mediated resident conflicts and supported students navigating personal, academic, and social challenges.
- Collaborated with Resident Directors and campus resources to connect residents with appropriate support services.
- Managed administrative responsibilities including maintenance requests, room change processes, incident reports, and resident documentation.
- Supported first-year students in their transition to college life by fostering inclusion, engagement, and a welcoming living environment.
Presenter
OPAM (Organization for the Psychological and Anthropological Methods) Conference & VSS (Vision Sciences Society)
01.2024 - 05.2025
- Presented original research on The Impact of User-Controlled Cues on Visual Search Performance and Quitting Behavior.
- Discussed findings with peers and experts, highlighting the relationship between user-controlled cues and task performance in visual search tasks.
- Participated in workshops and presentations on data analysis techniques, furthering expertise in experimental design and research methods.
- Networked with professionals in the field, gained valuable insights on ongoing and future projects.
Research assistant for Professor Brennan Payne and Jeff Moher
University of Utah
06.2024 - 06.2024
- Assisted with EEG capping and set-up for cognitive neuroscience experiments.
- Collected and organized data from participants, ensuring accuracy and consistency.
- Administered surveys to participants and assisted in maintaining research protocols.
- Collaborated with the research team to analyze data and prepare findings for presentation.
- Contributed to the literature review process to support ongoing research projects.
Student Advancement Officer
Connecticut College
New London
06.2023 - 05.2024
- Developed strategic fundraising initiatives to support college programs and scholarships.
- Manage donor relations to cultivate long-term partnerships with alumni and stakeholders, strengthening support for initiatives.
- Coordinated events that engaged college community, fostering participation in philanthropic efforts and enhancing fundraising outcomes.
- Utilized social media and outreach strategies to enhance visibility of fundraising efforts and engage broader community.
- Achieved recognition for exceptional fundraising efforts during summer 2023
- Enhance the school's reputation and financial sustainability through networking and fundraising strategies.
- Created compelling communication materials to effectively convey the college's mission.
Education
BA - Biology and Psychology
CONNECTICUT COLLEGE
New London, CT05-2026
Diploma -
STONELEIGH BURNHAM
Greenfield, MA01-2022
Skills
- Molecular biology techniques
- Sample preparation
- Data collection
- Scientific reporting
- Laboratory organization
- Data management
- Scientific communication
- Research proposal writing
- Literature review
- Research presentations
- Field research support
- Scientific writing
- Teamwork
- Prioritization
- Conflict resolution
- Leadership
Community Engagement Experience
- Local Tutor, Nairobi, Kibera, 06/16–05/21: Provided homework support and academic tutoring to neighborhood children, created and maintained a weekly availability schedule for tutoring sessions, and prepared practice questions and learning activities to support students’ academic growth.
- Volunteer, Shofco/Kibera, Nairobi, Kibera, 06/18–05/21: Supported daycare staff by assisting approximately 20 children ages 3–4 with learning activities and homework-style assignments, volunteered at a home for elderly individuals with disabilities, assisted staff with cleaning, cooking, and client support, built positive relationships with clients through conversation and companionship, and contributed to a supportive and inclusive environment for children, elderly clients, and individuals with disabilities.
Timeline
Undergraduate Research Assistant - Microbial Ecology
Connecticut College
06.2025 - 12.2025
Research assistant for Professor Brennan Payne and Jeff Moher
University of Utah
06.2024 - 06.2024
Presenter
OPAM (Organization for the Psychological and Anthropological Methods) Conference & VSS (Vision Sciences Society)
01.2024 - 05.2025
Resident Assistant
Connecticut College
06.2023 - 05.2025
Student Advancement Officer
Connecticut College
06.2023 - 05.2024
BA - Biology and Psychology
CONNECTICUT COLLEGE
Diploma -
STONELEIGH BURNHAM