Jessica (Minchae) Joo
Durham,NC
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
Summary
Pre-health Duke University first-year student with extensive laboratory and research experience spanning environmental toxicology, molecular biology, and data analytics. Driven by curiosity about how environmental exposures shape human health, with a particular pull toward neuroscience and toxicology.
Work History
Incoming Research Assistant, Ibemere Research Lab
Duke University
Durham, NC
09.2026 - Current
- Selected to contribute to a scoping review examining terminology, definitions, conceptualizations, and existing protocols for survivorship following cell and gene therapy.
- Will examine how survivorship and life after cell and gene therapy are defined in sickle cell disease and other chronic inflammatory conditions.
- Will assist with literature screening, evidence extraction, and synthesis using Covidence, an online systematic-review management platform.
Environmental Toxicology Researcher
North Carolina Central University
Durham, NC
06.2025 - 08.2025
- Led a research project investigating the effects of TFA/PFAS exposure on zebrafish embryo development and gene expression.
- Performed qPCR and HCR to evaluate changes in RRAD gene activity.
- Handled zebrafish embryos to collect developmental measurements, including chorion diameter and fluorescence intensity, contributing to understanding impacts of TFA/PFAS exposure.
- Processed and analyzed microscopy images using Fiji and Imaris to elucidate effects on gene expression related to TFA/PFAS exposure.
- Organized experimental data and first-authored a research poster presented to NCCU faculty, researchers, and peers, effectively communicating research findings on environmental toxicology.
Research Intern / Lead Researcher
North Carolina Department of Commerce
Raleigh, NC
06.2023 - 08.2023
- Researched East Coast offshore-wind initiatives and analyzed policy, funding, and implementation gaps in North Carolina.
- Presented research-based recommendations to government officials and advocated for renewable-energy investment.
- Selected as one of 17 students statewide for a competitive STEM leadership and research fellowship.
- Received stipend of $1,700
Research Intern, Animal Science & Environmental Sustainability
NC State University
Raleigh, NC
07.2025 - 05.2026
- Analyzed and synthesized peer-reviewed scientific literature to identify research trends and knowledge gaps.
- Conducted a literature review on the environmental, climate, and resource-efficiency impacts of animal agriculture.
- Contributed to the development of a research article for potential publication.
Student Researcher
NC State University
Raleigh, NC
11.2024 - 01.2025
- Conducted a semester-long research project investigating drone-delivery trends through data analytics and predictive modeling.
- Used Python, CODAP, and Tableau to analyze market data and develop regression models.
- Presented research findings and emerging artificial intelligence applications to NC State faculty.
Cashier
Gang Nam Town
H Mart, NC
09.2024 - 02.2025
- Managed cashiering and packing
- Provided Korean-English translation for customers
- Maintained organized checkout area and supported team workflow & customer satisfaction
- Maintained attention to detail while handling payments, packing purchases, and assisting multiple customers.
Cashier
Tous les Jours
H Mart, NC
01.2026 - 06.2026
- Provided courteous customer service while balancing multiple responsibilities in a high-volume environment.
- Followed food-service, cleanliness, and cash-handling procedures accurately and efficiently.
- Collaborated with coworkers to maintain efficient workflow and a clean, organized work area.
President
Neuroscience Club
Green Hope High School, Cary NC
08.2023 - 05.2026
- Led a 20+ member student organization focused on neuroscience education and community service.
- Organized guest-speaker events, STEM workshops, peer mentoring, and donation drives benefiting the Ronald McDonald House.
- Promoted student engagement with neuroscience and biomedical research.
Education
Undergraduate Student - Biology
Duke University
Durham, NC05-2030
High School Diploma -
Green Hope High School
Cary, NC06-2026
Skills
- Laboratory: qPCR, HCR, pipetting, microscopy, fluorescence imaging, zebrafish handling, protocol adherence, data collection
- Research & Data: Literature review, scientific literature synthesis, quantitative image analysis, experimental data analysis
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Time management
- Systematic review
- Software: Fiji, Imaris, CODAP, Tableau, Microsoft Office
- Certifications: First Aid; Stop the Bleed
Personal Information
Work-Study Eligible
Timeline
Incoming Research Assistant, Ibemere Research Lab
Duke University
09.2026 - Current
Cashier
Tous les Jours
01.2026 - 06.2026
Research Intern, Animal Science & Environmental Sustainability
NC State University
07.2025 - 05.2026
Environmental Toxicology Researcher
North Carolina Central University
06.2025 - 08.2025
Student Researcher
NC State University
11.2024 - 01.2025
Cashier
Gang Nam Town
09.2024 - 02.2025
President
Neuroscience Club
08.2023 - 05.2026
Research Intern / Lead Researcher
North Carolina Department of Commerce
06.2023 - 08.2023
Undergraduate Student - Biology
Duke University
High School Diploma -
Green Hope High School