Jacob Laster
Biological Researcher
Little Rock,AR
Summary
Analytical Biological Technician focused on precise scientific tests and experiments with a military background. Extremely organized, methodical and efficient in performing daily tasks. Has been accountable teaching and verifying knowledge of up to 5 students. Enthusiastic about biological and biomedical research, with an interest in either cell culture or genetic analysis.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
5
5
years of post-secondary education
Work History
Financial Relationship Banker
Encore Bank
Little Rock, AR
05.2022 - Current
- Worked with clients to address and respond to client and partnership management issues.
- Processed customer requests for statements, ordering additional checks and updating customer personal information in database.
- Continually boosted branch production and revenue by 5-10% by consistently meeting all monthly and quarterly sales goals.
- Developed summaries to assess each client's participation level and determine targets for follow-up plans.
- Proved successful working within tight deadlines and fast-paced atmosphere.
- Carried out day-to-day duties accurately and efficiently.
Biological Research Associate
UAMS
Little Rock, AR
03.2021 - 04.2022
- Organized, Inventoried, and Re-ordered all equipment and materials used in biological research labs.
- Maintained, weaned, genotyped and monitored experimental and breeding mouse colonies containing up to 375 mice.
- Participated in harvests of experimental murine colonies with proficiency in removing all soft tissues as well as bone, including individual vertebrae and sections of skull
- Extracted both RNA and Protein from tissues and performed relevant analytical techniques based on the goal of the targeted experiment
- Organized, cleaned and stocked cell culture room with all media as well as preparing any specialized media
- Teaching and preparing undergraduate, pre-medical, and medical students on cell culture techniques including sterility techniques and proper thawing and plating techniques
- Assisting in writing research papers, reports and summaries regarding bone remodeling, including all forms of autophagy
Microbiological Research Assistant
UALR
Little Rock, AR
11.2018 - 12.2020
- Gathered, arranged and corrected research data to create representative graphs and charts highlighting results for presentations.
- Planned, modified and executed research techniques, including culture of yeast strains as well as preparation of various media and culturing instruments.
- Maintenance of cell culture equipment, Autoclave, Bunsen burners and ancillary instruments.
- Tracking and maintaining correct stock of miscellaneous equipment such as: Pipette tips, Culture plates, Media and reagents
Light Infantry Team Leader
US Army
Fort Benning, GA
06.2013 - 07.2016
- Responsible for the physical and mental readiness, weapons proficiency, medical skills proficiency and the leader development of four soldiers within my team.
- Led fire team during infantry dismounted battle drills and situational training exercises.
- Responded to emergencies with speed, efficiency and knowledgeable assistance.
- Trained over multinational partners, contractors and foreign nationals to develop warfighting and defense capabilities.
- Briefed leaders on readiness, equipment status and enemy locations to enable sound decision making.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Biology
University of Arkansas At Little Rock
Little Rock, AR 04.2015 - 04.2020
Skills
Animal colony maintenance
Writing reports and journals
Cell culture techniques
PCR and Gel electrophoresis
Western Blot and Protein Analysis
RNA Isolation and cDNA preperation
QPCR and quantification
Animal tissue harvesting
Lab management and stock maintenance
Proficient in uCT analysis and quantification
Experience in teaching different levels of students
Publications
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/358823534_Loss_of_chaperone-mediated_autophagy_is_associated_with_low_vertebral_cancellous_bone_mass
Olympic Weightlifting
Started weightlifting in 2016 at the recommendation of my oncologist to get some physical activity during my chemotherapy. Have progressed to nearly the top ranks of weightlifting nationally.
Timeline
Financial Relationship Banker
Encore Bank
05.2022 - Current
Biological Research Associate
UAMS
03.2021 - 04.2022
Microbiological Research Assistant
UALR
11.2018 - 12.2020
Bachelor of Science - Biology
University of Arkansas At Little Rock
04.2015 - 04.2020
Light Infantry Team Leader
US Army
06.2013 - 07.2016