Jéssica Halfen
Blacksburg,VA
Summary
Highly motivated professional with a passion for research and product development in the dairy cows' nutrition industry. Proficient in compiling and analyzing data to derive meaningful insights. Experienced in leading new projects and collaborating with technical teams to provide support on complex farm-related matters. A dedicated and resourceful individual with a proven track record of delivering results in dynamic work environments.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Postdoctoral Associated
Virginia Tech University
04.2022 - Current
- Designed, tested, and validated new cutting-edge biotechnology assays (Neutrophil isolation for 10 x single cell genomics)
- Designed protocols and experiments with a new approach in cell culture under microfluidic
- Worked closely with machine learning scientists to develop smart farm technologies (sensor to estimate daily intake in dairy cows – still in test)
- Worked with DNA/RNA extraction (tissue, rumen fluid, milk, immune cells, cell culture) and RT-qPCR techniques
- Worked with immune cell isolation, phagocytosis assay, and flow cytometry
- Worked with western blot and ELISA assays
- Responsible for teaching graduate and undergraduate students how to perform assays at the laboratory
- Advisor in Capstone projects for undergrads
- Teaching classes in Mammary Immunology course
- Worked in trials at the dairy farm with cows and calves (feeding, blood collection, rumen fluid collection, liver biopsy, milking)
- Designed research projects and alternative approaches and discussed results with professor.
- Responsible for running statistical analysis for animal and cell culture trial
- Wrote scientific and magazine articles
- Participated as an oral presenter in conferences (ADSA 2023)
- Maintained a well-organized laboratory environment through inventory management and equipment maintenance procedures.
- Mentored junior researchers and graduate students, fostering their professional growth and development.
- Performed scientific research on multiple projects.
- Liaised with supervisor to review grants and manuscripts to develop potential publications.
- Peer-reviewed publications (English): 1; Submitted manuscripts: 1; Manuscripts in development: 5
Technical and Commercial Assistant
Cargill Animal Nutrition
05.2021 - 04.2022
- Provided technical guidance and support to dairy farmers and consultants (in adult and young dairy animals)
- Increased farmers satisfaction by providing timely and accurate product information, addressing inquiries, and resolving issues.
- Communication with external suppliers on new products and technologies to make application recommendations
- Supported sales representatives by preparing accurate quotes, proposals, and presentations tailored to prospective clients'' needs.
- Conducted training sessions on the application of company technologies
- Participated in business meetings to design strategies for new customers.
- Built relationships with clients to establish new contracts.
- Second place on the state best seller of high technology additives
Education
PhD. in Animal Science, Graduate Program in Animal Science -
Federal University of Pelotas
Pelotas, Brazil02.2021
Master in Animal Science, Graduate Program in Animal Science -
Federal University of Pelotas
Pelotas, Brazil02.2017
Bachelor in Animal Science -
Federal University of Pelotas
Pelotas, Brazil08.2015
Skills
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration
- Research experience
- Laboratory Management
- Report Preparation (Technical and Scientific)
- Group and individual instruction
- Findings Presentations
- Problem Identification
- Project Coordination
- Critical Thinking
General Knowledge
Excel, Office, PowerPoint, SigmaPlot, GraphPad, SAS, R, Dairy Max, AMTS
Certification
October/2021 - Online course Advisor CowSignals®
CowSignals specialist: Joep Driessen
Languages
Portuguese
Native or Bilingual
English
Full Professional
Spanish
Limited Working
Timeline
Postdoctoral Associated
Virginia Tech University
04.2022 - Current
Technical and Commercial Assistant
Cargill Animal Nutrition
05.2021 - 04.2022
PhD. in Animal Science, Graduate Program in Animal Science -
Federal University of Pelotas
Master in Animal Science, Graduate Program in Animal Science -
Federal University of Pelotas
Bachelor in Animal Science -
Federal University of Pelotas
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