Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
References
Timeline
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Kaitlyn Kessel

Boston,MA

Summary

Detail-oriented biology researcher with extensive experience in molecular biology, microscopy, and data analysis. Demonstrated ability to critically evaluate scientific data for accuracy and originality in research findings. Seeking to apply analytical skills, scientific expertise, and technical writing proficiency to support the review and assessment of biological innovations in a dynamic and collaborative environment.

Overview

4
4
years of professional experience

Work History

Server

Corrib Pub Restaurant
West Roxbury, MA
05.2021 - Current
  • Served guests in a fast-paced restaurant environment, managing multiple tasks simultaneously while ensuring accuracy and efficiency.
  • Built strong customer relationships by learning preferences, enhancing repeat business through personalized service and attention to detail.
  • Completed nightly accounting and sales reports with precision, demonstrating strong organizational and analytical skills in maintaining accurate financial records.

Research Assistant

Veterans Affairs Hospital
Jamaica Plain, MA
08.2023 - 08.2024
  • Performed high-resolution imaging using Zeiss LSM 980 with Airyscan to capture detailed biological data, including Axon Initial Segments (AIS) and various cellular structures within the mouse retina.
  • Ensured strict adherence to regulatory standards and protocols, maintaining compliance with federal guidelines in the execution of research activities.
  • Contributed to key research initiatives by accurately collecting and analyzing biological data, supporting the advancement of scientific knowledge while upholding rigorous ethical and procedural standards.

Research Assistant

Massachusetts General Brigham
Boston, MA
06.2023 - 08.2024
  • Ensured compliance with ethical research standards by managing and maintaining IACUC protocols, while overseeing the maintenance of research facilities.
  • Specialized in retina mounting and preparation, utilizing immunohistochemistry and histology techniques to ensure precise sample handling and high-quality data collection. Maintained tissue samples with care, including meticulous staining and sectioning to support detailed analysis.
  • Conducted detailed analysis of retina images captured with advanced high-resolution microscopy techniques (Zeiss LSM 980 with Airyscan).
  • Played a key role in collecting and analyzing complex biological data, contributing significantly to the advancement of research projects through hands-on experimentation and data interpretation.
  • Independently managed in-vivo pharmacology experiments, including animal model setup, compound administration, and clinical observation. Performed tissue collections, generating high-quality data for research projects.

Teaching Assistant

Simmons University
Boston, MA
09.2021 - 05.2023
  • Initiated and led efforts to standardize the chemistry lab curriculum, ensuring consistency and quality across multiple sections.
  • Prepared, synthesized, and purified reagents for undergraduate chemistry laboratories, documenting procedures and results for future reference.
  • Managed sections of 20 students, including developing and maintaining instructional materials, and providing clear, detailed feedback on lab reports and assignments.
  • Assisted in Inorganic Chemistry, Quantitative Analysis Chemistry, and Organic Chemistry 2, delivering instructional support and clarifying complex concepts through written explanations and one-on-one assistance.
  • Drafted comprehensive instructional materials and lab manuals, contributing to curriculum development and improvement.

Undergraduate Researcher

Simmons Foods
Boston, MA
01.2021 - 05.2023
  • Planned and executed independent research projects, focusing on the effects of PFOS on C. elegans, with a strong emphasis on clear, detailed documentation of experimental protocols and findings.
  • Authored a senior thesis titled “The Effect of PFOS on Glutamate Release in C. elegans,” developed from research funded by the SURPASS grant received prior to senior year. The thesis involved extensive writing and synthesis of research findings, demonstrating advanced technical writing skills.
  • Co-authored a publication on the dose developmental delay effects of PFOS on C. elegans, contributing significantly to the manuscript by continuing and expanding on a previous student’s project. Focused on drafting and revising sections of the paper to ensure clarity and adherence to academic standards.
  • Conducted hands-on research using advanced techniques such as ChR2 GFP expression analysis with the Zeiss Stemi 508 dissection microscope. Applied staining techniques, including immunohistochemistry and histology, to prepare and analyze tissue samples, ensuring precise and high-quality data collection.
  • Prepared and delivered presentations of research findings at academic conferences (ASCB), crafting detailed, well-organized reports and visual aids to effectively communicate complex scientific concepts.

COVID-19 Data Intern

Broadstreet
04.2020 - 05.2021
  • Translated complex numerical data and factual information into strategic insights to guide company decisions, ensuring that findings were clear and actionable.
  • Utilized Slack for effective team communication, coordinating on decision-making processes and ensuring alignment on project objectives.
  • Prepared and presented detailed weekly reports summarizing key findings, highlighting trends, and offering data-driven recommendations to inform strategic decisions.
  • Monitored and analyzed data from various regions across the United States, conducting statistical analyses on COVID-19 positive cases to identify patterns and trends.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Biology

Simmons University
Boston, MA
05-2023

Skills

  • Mouse Dissection and Tissue Collection: Specialized in mouse dissection, focusing on retina and brain slices Proficient in preparing high-quality samples for imaging, IHC staining, and analysis, ensuring precision and adherence to ethical standards
  • Immunohistochemistry (IHC) Staining: Experienced in performing IHC staining on biological tissues to detect specific proteins and structures, ensuring accurate labeling for research and data analysis
  • Scientific Data Evaluation: Strong background in analyzing and interpreting complex biological data using computer applications, including AI, to assess the impact of scientific discoveries
  • Microscopy and Imaging: Expertise in high-resolution imaging using Zeiss LSM 980 with Airyscan and Zeiss Stemi 508 dissection microscope Applied to evaluate biological structures and support scientific innovations
  • Molecular Biology Techniques: Experienced in molecular biology, including the analysis of ChR2 GFP expression, with a focus on uncovering biological mechanisms and contributing to experimental design
  • Technical Writing and Communication: Skilled in communicating scientific findings through clear, concise research papers and presentations Co-authored a peer-reviewed publication and authored a senior thesis
  • Project Management: Demonstrated ability to plan, manage, and execute research projects, overseeing timelines and resources to achieve scientific goals

References

References available upon request.

Timeline

Research Assistant

Veterans Affairs Hospital
08.2023 - 08.2024

Research Assistant

Massachusetts General Brigham
06.2023 - 08.2024

Teaching Assistant

Simmons University
09.2021 - 05.2023

Server

Corrib Pub Restaurant
05.2021 - Current

Undergraduate Researcher

Simmons Foods
01.2021 - 05.2023

COVID-19 Data Intern

Broadstreet
04.2020 - 05.2021

Bachelor of Science - Biology

Simmons University
Kaitlyn Kessel