Jen Schmidt
Walnutport,PA
Summary
My greatest passions are discovering new science and sharing it with the world. I have four years of experience writing and editing content on topics like neurodegenerative diseases, oncology, lung disease, rare disease, and diabetes.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Post-doctoral researcher
Ahner Lab
08.2020 - Current
- Company Overview: Cornell University
- Project management- develop, review, and track publications; set publication plans and ensure timelines and budgets are met
- Identify challenges and implement solutions in a federally funded genetic engineering project
- Organize complex materials to present to internal stakeholders and external collaborators
- Write, edit, and submit manuscripts, abstracts, posters, oral presentations, protocols, study reports, literature summaries, and training materials
- Rapidly learn new product technologies, processes, and software as needed to reach project goals
- Conducted masters and doctoral research, August 2014- May 2020
- Managed journal submissions— coordinated between team members, external partners, and reviewers
- Interviewed subject matter experts to develop procedures and software for analyzing translation regulation of high-value pharmaceutical and industrial protein production in engineered host organisms
- Peer-edited team research reports for clarity, accuracy, and consistency
- Led a cross-functional team resulting in a high-impact publication - Schmidt et al
- 2019
- Helped write marketing materials for this project as part of a university branding campaign
- Cornell University
- Mentored junior researchers, enhancing their skills and supporting their career development.
- Overcame technical challenges by troubleshooting equipment issues or refining experimental procedures as necessary.
- Contributed to high-impact publications by collaborating with fellow researchers and providing critical input.
- Conducted thorough literature reviews to inform experimental design and maintain awareness of current trends in the field.
- Liaised with supervisor to review grants and manuscripts to develop potential publications.
- Drafted manuscripts and presented findings at major conferences.
- Maintained accurate records of research findings and provided statistical analysis of data results.
- Applied advanced statistical techniques to analyze complex datasets, revealing novel insights into the subject matter.
- Leveraged interpersonal and communication skills to mentor PhD, graduate and undergraduate students.
- Designed research projects and alternative approaches and discussed results with professor.
- Collaborated with 6 multidisciplinary team members to accomplish research goals.
- Published research results in peer-reviewed journals and presented at seminars and meetings.
- Streamlined data management practices for easier access and improved collaboration among team members.
- Conducted independent biochemistry, bioengineering, and genetics research to attain short and long-term objectives.
- Contributed to and actively participated in research conception, design and execution to address defined problems.
- Secured grant funding for collaborative projects through persuasive proposal writing and networking efforts.
- Enhanced research outcomes by designing and implementing innovative experiments in the lab.
- Developed novel methodologies for data analysis, significantly improving research efficiency.
- Optimized laboratory processes to ensure accurate results and efficient use of resources.
- Developed custom software tools for specialized data analysis needs, boosting overall productivity of the research group.
- Implemented cutting-edge technologies in the lab, staying at the forefront of scientific advancements in the field.
- Authored professional scientific papers for publishing in peer-reviewed journals.
- Kept abreast of current industry, scientific and regulatory developments and issues.
- Operated and performed preventative maintenance on laboratory equipment and instruments.
- Collaborated with researchers and scientists to design and execute experiments.
- Trained and supervised junior technicians in laboratory protocols.
- Troubleshot and resolved equipment and process issues.
- Cooperated with other technicians to develop and test new protocols.
- Prepared samples for analysis by performing complex sample preparation tasks.
- Analyzed results using analytical software and created reports.
- Participated in research projects by designing and executing experiments.
- Provided support and guidance to junior lab staff.
- Adhered to laboratory safety procedures to maintain compliance with quality control standards.
- Prepared reagents and solutions following standard laboratory formulas and procedures.
- Interpreted laboratory results to provide technical advice to scientists.
- Recorded and analyzed data to produce reports of results.
- Monitored and documented safety standards to verify compliance.
Freelance Scientific Editor
Freelance Scientific Editor
02.2021 - 04.2021
- Edit manuscripts, abstracts, and reviews for clarity, flow, grammar, and style
- Format written content for adherence to publication guidelines and submission-ready standards
- Topics include: clinical trial reports, neurogenetic degenerative diseases, oncology, virology, and diabetes
- Managed multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality editorial work.
- Enhanced publication quality by diligently proofreading and editing articles for grammar, spelling, and consistency.
- Prepared, rewrote, and edited pieces to improve readability and impact.
Freelance Scientific Writer
Freelance Scientific Writer
11.2018 - 04.2021
- Write and edit concise summaries of complex scientific content for non-technical audiences
- Develop publication quality figures using various software including GraphPad and Adobe Photoshop
- Topics include: clinical research, oncology, genomics, evolution, gene therapy, and genetic engineering
- Improved manuscript clarity by addressing reviewer comments in a comprehensive manner during revision processes.
Graduate Teaching Assistant
Cornell University
08.2015 - 12.2018
- Synthesized training courses & workshops on web-based platforms, team manager, presenter
- Checked assignments, proctored tests and provided grades according to university standards.
- Developed strong rapport with students through open communication channels, fostering an inclusive learning environment.
- Enhanced student comprehension by incorporating visual aids and real-world examples into lectures.
- Provided timely and constructive feedback on assignments, enabling students to refine their work and achieve higher grades.
- Supported instructors in grading exams and papers, maintaining accurate records of student performance throughout the semester.
- Served as a liaison between faculty members and students, addressing concerns and facilitating resolution of issues promptly.
- Documented attendance and completed assignments to maintain full class and student records.
- Mentored students through office hours and one-on-one communication.
- Collaborated with fellow teaching assistants to provide additional support for struggling students, leading to improved academic outcomes.
- Managed a classroom of diverse learners, implementing differentiated instruction strategies to meet individual student needs.
- Worked with teachers in evaluating student progress, needs and gains.
- Assisted in the development of course materials, ensuring content was relevant and engaging for students.
- Mentored new graduate teaching assistants, providing guidance on best practices and classroom management strategies.
- Participated in curriculum development meetings with faculty members, offering insights from a teaching assistant perspective to improve course design.
- Organized review sessions before exams, aiding students in identifying key areas of focus for optimal test preparation.
- Conducted office hours for supplemental tutoring sessions, helping students understand complex concepts more clearly.
- Boosted class participation rates with incorporation of multimedia presentations into lectures.
- Enhanced departmental communications, organizing regular meetings and discussions between faculty and students.
- Enhanced student engagement by developing interactive teaching methods.
- Streamlined grading process, ensuring timely feedback on assignments and exams.
- Assisted in preparation and delivery of major departmental conferences, enhancing academic collaboration.
- Cultivated critical thinking and analytical skills in students through engaging discussion sessions.
- Improved learning outcomes with well-prepared and structured lesson plans.
- Encouraged academic excellence, mentoring students on effective study strategies and time management.
- Provided comprehensive support to lead professor, streamlining research efforts and improving data collection efficiency.
- Promoted digital literacy among students, incorporating technology-based tools in teaching and assignments.
- Fostered positive learning environment, addressing student concerns and promoting inclusive classroom atmosphere.
- Coordinated with faculty to identify and integrate new textbooks and resources, improving course relevancy.
- Assisted in academic advising, helping students plan their education paths and career goals.
- Contributed to development of online learning modules, facilitating remote education.
- Managed and updated course materials on learning management systems, ensuring accessibility for all students.
Cornell Engineering Ambassador
Cornell University
01.2012 - 12.2015
- Tour Guide, Public Engagement
Educational tour guide
Epcot Science Department
12.2012 - 07.2013
- Company Overview: Walt Disney World
- Public relations, collaborative group problem-solving
- Walt Disney World
- Successfully balanced educational objectives with entertainment value when designing tour experiences, ensuring that students remained engaged and attentive throughout.
- Communicated naturally and clearly with ages and demographics and consistently engaged guests in tours.
- Offered safe and inspirational tour environment that gave kids confidence to explore, experiment and learn independently.
- Demonstrated outdoor leadership prowess, diverse teaching and presentation skills and precise planning and organization.
- Brought energy and enthusiasm to tours and interacted with guests warmly and personally.
- Managed large groups of students effectively during tours, maintaining order while promoting a fun and engaging atmosphere.
- Evaluated the effectiveness of current tour offerings by soliciting feedback from educators and making adjustments as needed to improve content accuracy and delivery.
- Utilized storytelling techniques to bring history to life for students, sparking curiosity and encouraging further exploration of topics covered during tours.
- Continuously updated knowledge of current events relevant to subject matter covered in tours, adding depth and context where appropriate.
- Maintained a safe environment by adhering closely to established safety guidelines both on-site at attractions as well as during transportation between locations.
Education
PhD - Biotechnology (focus: biochemistry)
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY05.2020
MS - Bioengineering
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY01.2017
BS - Science of Earth Systems Engineering (focus: biogeochemistry)
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY05.2014
Skills
- Medical/technical writing
- Project management
- Multidisciplinary collaboration
- Science communications
- Attention to detail
- Professional leadership
- Literature research
- Deadline management
- Written and verbal communication
- Editing
- Formatting
- Publication planning
- Highly independent
- Microsoft Office
- Adobe Acrobat
- Methodical
- Organized
- Creative problem-solving
- Scientific writing
- Research methodologies
- Computational skills
- Advanced data analysis
- Experimental design
- Teaching experience
- Research
- Experimental work plans
- Interdisciplinary collaboration
- Innovation and creativity
- Research support
- Classroom instruction
- Quantitative research
- Research methodology
- Research protocols
- Project coordination
- Hypothesis testing
- Research procedures
- Records management
- Subject matter expertise
- Documentation requirements
- Quantitative analysis
- Reporting requirements
- Research design
- Qualitative analysis
- Lab experiment coordination
- Lab and field testing
- Interpretation of findings
- Research documentation
- Research questions
- Research proposals
- Undergraduate research
- Literature review
- Multidisciplinary team collaboration
- Lab result interpretation
- Team management
- Interpersonal and written communication
- Report preparation
- Test planning
- Quality control
- Materials sampling
- Inventory oversight
- Specimen processing
- Specimen preparation
- Chart development
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Problem-solving
- Time management
- Problem-solving abilities
- Multitasking Abilities
- Critical thinking
- Excellent communication
- Reliability
- Organizational skills
- Active listening
- Team collaboration
- Effective communication
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Decision-making
- Detail-oriented
- Relationship building
- Sample preparation
- Team building
- Safety protocols
- Task prioritization
- Self motivation
- Interpersonal skills
- Analytical thinking
- Goal setting
- Professionalism
- Interpersonal communication
- Time management abilities
- Continuous improvement
- Adaptability
- Written communication
- Quality assurance
- Troubleshooting
- Data analysis
Accomplishments
- Supervised a undergraduate researcher.
Technical Experience
- Freelance Scientific Editor, 02/21, Present, Edit manuscripts, abstracts, and reviews for clarity, flow, grammar, and style, Format written content for adherence to publication guidelines and submission-ready standards
- Freelance Scientific Writer, 11/18, Present, Write and edit concise summaries of complex scientific content for non-technical audiences, Develop publication quality figures using various software including GraphPad and Adobe Photoshop
- Post-doctoral researcher, Ahner Lab, Cornell University, 08/20, Present, Project management- develop, review, and track publications; set publication plans and ensure timelines and budgets are met, Identify challenges and implement solutions in a federally funded genetic engineering project, Organize complex materials to present to internal stakeholders and external collaborators, Write, edit, and submit manuscripts, abstracts, posters, oral presentations, protocols, study reports, literature summaries, and training materials
- Graduate Researcher, Ahner Lab, Cornell University, 08/14, 05/20, Managed journal submissions— coordinated between team members, external partners, and reviewers, Interviewed subject matter experts to develop procedures and software for analyzing translation regulation of high-value pharmaceutical and industrial protein production in engineered host organisms, Peer-edited team research reports for clarity, accuracy, and consistency, Led a cross-functional team resulting in a high-impact publication - Schmidt et al. 2019
Technical Publications
- Field-grown tobacco plants maintain robust growth while accumulating large quantities of a bacterial cellulase in chloroplasts, Schmidt, J.A., et al., Nature Plants, 5, 715-721, 2019
- Mitigation of deleterious phenotypes in chloroplast-engineered plants accumulating high levels of foreign proteins, Schmidt, J., et al., Biotechnol Biofuels, 14, 42, 2021
- Designing synthetic downstream boxes to predictably alter foreign protein production in transplastomic tobacco, Schmidt, J. & Ahner, B., In preparation
- Tailoring synthetic regulators for enhanced accumulation of recombinant human interleukin-2, Schmidt J., Croen, M. Richter, L. Yazdani, M. & Ahner, B., In preparation
Scientific Communication
- A cutting-edge approach to an ancient problem: gene editing takes a bite out of malaria, Schmidt, J., Medium, 2018
- Engineering a healthier future: Biofortified cassava may reduce iron anemia in threatened populations, Schmidt, J., Medium, 2019
- Origination and diversification of Orchidaceae, Schmidt, J., Orchids (American Orchids Society), accepted
- Is breast cancer written in your gene?, Schmidt, J., Medium, 2021
Verbal Communication Experience
- Educational Tour Guide, Epcot Science Department, Walt Disney World, 12/12, 07/13, Public relations, collaborative group problem-solving
- Graduate Teaching Assistant, Cornell University, 08/15, 2018, Synthesized training courses & workshops on web-based platforms, Team manager, presenter
- Cornell Engineering Ambassador, Cornell University, 01/12, 12/15, Tour Guide, Public Engagement
Summary Of Skills
Medical/technical writing, Science communications, Literature research, Editing, formatting, Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat, Project management, Attention to detail, Deadline management, Publication planning, Methodical, organized, Multidisciplinary collaboration, Professional leadership, Written and verbal communication, Highly independent, Creative problem-solving
Timeline
Freelance Scientific Editor
Freelance Scientific Editor
02.2021 - 04.2021
Post-doctoral researcher
Ahner Lab
08.2020 - Current
Freelance Scientific Writer
Freelance Scientific Writer
11.2018 - 04.2021
Graduate Teaching Assistant
Cornell University
08.2015 - 12.2018
Educational tour guide
Epcot Science Department
12.2012 - 07.2013
Cornell Engineering Ambassador
Cornell University
01.2012 - 12.2015
MS - Bioengineering
Cornell University
BS - Science of Earth Systems Engineering (focus: biogeochemistry)
Cornell University
PhD - Biotechnology (focus: biochemistry)
Cornell University
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