Koa Williams

Worked with University of Michigan Students. Helping them achieve desired grades in Biochemistry, Biology, and Organic Chemistry. I Planned lessons for allotted time to strengthen weak subjects and build skills. Met with students for hour long, appointment based sessions, to help them better understand material and extend on their daily lectures. Created study guides to help create a self-sufficient mindset

I gained valuable experience at the University of Michigan, where I worked in Chapman Laboratory, analyzing urine samples from patients with catheter-associated urinary tract infections (UTIs). My role involved analyzing bacterial 16S rRNA samples, read via Nanopore technology, to identify bacterial cultures present in the UTIs as well as detecting antibacterial-resistant genes. This research aimed to provide more targeted, specific antibacterial treatments for patients. Through this project, I honed my skills in molecular biology techniques and gained a deeper understanding of the importance of precision medicine in improving patient care.

During my tenure at Kellogg Eye Center, I engaged in meaningful research exploring the impact of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) on blood-retinal barrier leakage in individuals with diabetes. Additionally, I contributed to a newer study centered around the gene FLVCR2, with the aim of establishing a correlation between FLVCR2 levels and blood vessel patterns within the retina. My responsibilities encompassed a diverse range of tasks, including the extraction of mice retinas, microscopy, protein assay analysis, and cell culturing.