J'Kaia Reynolds
Hopewell Junction ,NY
Summary
Research professional with a strong track record of supporting academic projects through meticulous data collection and analysis, demonstrating a proven ability to work collaboratively in team settings to achieve research goals while adapting to evolving project requirements. Possesses expertise in utilizing statistical software and maintaining accurate documentation, alongside being an energetic volunteer offering outstanding public speaking and interpersonal skills, with past experience working with children and teenagers, and known for being punctual and dedicated to service.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Research Assistant
Shannon Nowotarski, PhD
10.2024 - Current
- Conducted literature reviews to support project development and enhance research quality.
- Collaborated with faculty on data collection and analysis for ongoing research projects.
- Managed laboratory equipment maintenance, ensuring operational efficiency and safety compliance.
- Enhanced research quality by conducting thorough literature reviews and synthesizing findings.
- Planned, modified and executed research techniques, procedures and tests.
Fellow
Nathan Greenauer, PhD
08.2024 - Current
- Organized community outreach events to foster engagement and participation.
- Collaborated with local organizations to identify service opportunities for volunteers.
- Coordinated volunteer schedules to ensure adequate support at all events.
- Developed targeted initiatives addressing specific social issues like homelessness or addiction, providing tailored support to affected individuals.
- Facilitated regular meetings among team members for effective communication and coordination of ongoing activities.
- Increased awareness of available programs by designing and distributing informational materials and conducting presentations.
Teacher's Assistant
Penn State Berks
01.2024 - Current
- Kept classrooms clean, neat, and properly sanitized for student health and classroom efficiency.
- Handed out classroom materials, like pencils, paper, and crayons.
- Oversaw students in classroom and common areas to monitor, enforce rules, and support lead teacher.
- Reviewed lesson material with students individually or in groups.
- Supported classroom activities, tutoring, and reviewing work.
Intern
Otto Phanstiel, PhD
06.2025 - 08.2025
- Conducted research to inform team strategies and improve project outcomes.
- Collaborated with team members for successful completion of research projects on time and within budget.
- Engaged in problem-solving discussions to address challenges and implement solutions.
- Conducted literature reviews to inform research methodologies and project development.
- Analyzed data sets using statistical software to support ongoing research initiatives.
- Assisted in preparing presentations for research findings, showcasing insights effectively.
Volunteer
John Jay High School
09.2021 - 06.2023
- Assisted with special events and programs.
- Used strong interpersonal communication skills to convey information to others.
- Supported engaging, fun, and smooth-running events by helping with organization and planning.
- Organized and led monthly meetings for Students Against Destructive Decisions club.
- Monitored club activities and identified areas for improvement.
- Facilitated discussions regarding mental wellness and safety of teens in our community
Tutor
John Jay High school
10.2021 - 04.2023
- Collaborated with students to complete homework assignments, identify lagging skills, and correct weaknesses.
- Provided homework assistance using specific curriculum and materials.
- Motivated students towards learning and studying to build self-confidence and reduce fear of failure.
- Supported students with helpful study habits and exam strategies.
- Taught students remotely using online video chat platform and other delivery channels.
- Enhanced students'' understanding of subject matter by incorporating real-world examples into lessons.
- Provided constructive feedback on assignments, helping students improve their writing and problem-solving skills.
Intern
SUNY New Paltz
05.2022 - 06.2022
- Maintained safe laboratory environment by adhering to safety protocols and guidelines at all times.
- Acquired proficiency in various molecular biology techniques such as PCR, DNA extraction, gel electrophoresis, cell culture maintenance, among others.
- Completed comprehensive laboratory training sessions covering topics such as biosafety practices or proper waste disposal procedures; enhancing overall competency levels.
- Actively engaged in troubleshooting process when issues arose during experiments; identifying root causes and implementing solutions efficiently.
- Meticulously documented experimental procedures, data, and observations in laboratory notebooks; ensuring traceability and accuracy for future reference.
- Handled specimens and conducted tests according to established protocols, keeping efficient records on all experiments.
Intern
Cary Institute Of Ecosystem Studies
08.2021 - 08.2021
- Analyzed problems and worked with teams to develop solutions.
- Participated in workshops and presentations related to projects to gain knowledge.
- Contributed to successful completion of a research project by efficiently managing data collection and task analysis
Education
Bachelor of Science - Biochemistry
Penn State Berks
Reading, PA05.2027
High School Diploma -
John Jay Senior High School
Hopewell Junction, NY06.2023
Skills
- Data Entry
- Fundraising Events
- Community Engagement
- Event Planning
- Community Outreach
- Positive Attitude
- Teamwork and Collaboration
- Filing and Recordkeeping
- Relationship Building
- Community Service
- Public Speaking
- Time management
- Problem-solving
Accomplishments
- Received the Senator Sue Serino Youth Leadership Award for outstanding community service and leadership.
- Received consistent positive remarks for quality of work.
- Conducted meetings and events as President of the the Black Student Union, and Students Against Destructive Decisions Club
- Developed organizational and record keeping skills while acting as the Secretary for the Debate Club
- Conducted research and presented evidence to school board regarding classroom discourse which led to changes in school policy
Timeline
Intern
Otto Phanstiel, PhD
06.2025 - 08.2025
Research Assistant
Shannon Nowotarski, PhD
10.2024 - Current
Fellow
Nathan Greenauer, PhD
08.2024 - Current
Teacher's Assistant
Penn State Berks
01.2024 - Current
Intern
SUNY New Paltz
05.2022 - 06.2022
Tutor
John Jay High school
10.2021 - 04.2023
Volunteer
John Jay High School
09.2021 - 06.2023
Intern
Cary Institute Of Ecosystem Studies
08.2021 - 08.2021
High School Diploma -
John Jay Senior High School
Bachelor of Science - Biochemistry
Penn State Berks
Cohen-Hammel Fellowship
Selected as a Cohen-Hammel Fellow at Penn State Berks, a competitive program supporting high-achieving students committed to academic excellence, leadership, and community engagement. Awarded a $30,000 merit-based scholarship over three years; work closely with a faculty mentor and supervisor, engage in community service and leadership initiatives, and receive additional funding for research, conferences, and academic materials.