Kayla Martinez
Woodstock,IL
Summary
Detail-oriented and motivated Biochemistry undergraduate with hands-on experience in plant biology research and greenhouse management. Skilled in experimental design, data collection, and analysis using advanced laboratory instrumentation and software. Bilingual in Spanish and English, with strong collaborative and communication abilities. Passionate about supporting plant breeding programs through meticulous care, scientific rigor, and innovative problem-solving to contribute to sustainable horticultural advancements.
Overview
1
1
year of professional experience
Work History
Student Researcher
NSF-REU Mycorrhiza Lab, North Central College
Naperville, IL
05.2025 - 07.2025
- Managed greenhouse experiments, ensuring optimal plant health and growth conditions daily
- Collected, analyzed, and interpreted experimental data to support multiple plant biology projects
- Communicated research progress and findings effectively to lab team for collaborative decision-making
Student Researcher
Mycorrhiza Lab, North Central College
Naperville, IL
01.2024 - 05.2024
- Constructed and maintained plant systems for controlled experiments
- Participated in research discussions to evaluate past results and guide future experimental design
- Collaborated with lab members to optimize protocols and troubleshoot experimental challenges
Education
Bachelor of Science - Biochemistry
North Central College
Naperville, IL05-2026
Skills
- Plant Science & Breeding: Greenhouse management, sterile technique, microscopy, plant system construction
- Laboratory Instrumentation: UV-VIS Spectrophotometer, PCR, centrifuge, NMR, gas chromatography, rotary evaporation
- Data Analysis & Software: Molecular modeling (Spartan, Orca, Avogadro), Top Spin, Statistix
- Languages: Spanish (bilingual)
- Computer: Microsoft Word, Excel, OBS, Instagram
RELEVANT COURSEWORK
- Organic Chemistry I & II
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemistry
- Genes and Genomics
- Plant Biology
CAMPUS & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
- Cardinal First Program, North Central College | Naperville, IL
- Participant
- Engaged in workshops on academic success and leadership development
- Connected with first-generation college mentors and diverse peers
Timeline
Student Researcher
NSF-REU Mycorrhiza Lab, North Central College
05.2025 - 07.2025
Student Researcher
Mycorrhiza Lab, North Central College
01.2024 - 05.2024
Bachelor of Science - Biochemistry
North Central College