Lucy Watson
Saint Louis,MO
Summary
Dedicated botanist pursuing a B.A. in Biology at Eckerd College, graduating Spring 2027. Developed expertise in plant morphology, taxonomy, and phylogenetics through research projects at Missouri Botanical Garden and Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. Committed to advancing knowledge in plant diversity and evolutionary relationships, while seeking opportunities to further research skills in plant taxonomy and ecology.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
Work History
Research Intern
Selby Marie Botanical Gardens
02.2026 - Current
- Molecular lab research working under the mentorship of Dr. John Clark
- Executed DNA extractions and sequencing (ITS and ETS) to support species identification and classification
- Performed PCR amplification to replicate DNA segments for analysis to identify shared markers across species in the genus Nautilocalyx
- Conducted phylogenetic tree analysis of family Gesneriaceae to investigate evolutionary relationships and species diversity
- Edited chromatograms and curated data to enhance accuracy and reliability of genetic analysis
REU Program
Missouri Botanical Gardens
06.2026 - 08.2026
- Led research for upcoming publication expected in fall 2026, with anticipated recognition as first author.
- Conducted morphological analysis of newly discovered NA species in genus Glandularia to identify key characteristics and contribute to taxonomic understanding.
- Performed R-studio analysis of characters using FAMD and PCA to reveal underlying patterns in species data.
- Maximum Likelihood phylogenetic inference estimated using RaxMLGui
Research Intern
Missouri Botanical Gardens
01.2023 - 04.2023
- Conservation Genetics Lab research working under post-doctoral fellow: Brigette Williams
- Performed R-script coding and analysis of morphologic data to enhance research accuracy
- Conducted floral dissections and analysis in microscopy lab to support research findings
- Assisted greenhouse conservation project measuring drought conditions of Leavenworthia species to inform conservation strategies
Volunteer
Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri
Saint Louis, MO
09.2010 - Current
- Identified community needs and implemented service projects, addressing local issues and enhancing community engagement
- Guided younger scouts in teamwork and leadership activities, fostering personal growth and collaboration skills
- Participated as voting member in annual Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri meeting, contributing to key decision-making processes
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Biology
Eckerd College
Saint Petersburg, Florida05-2027
High School Diploma -
Collegiate School of Medicine And Bioscience
Saint Louis05-2023
Skills
- Molecular biology techniques
- PCR research
- Phylogenetic analysis
- R script proficiency
- Statistical analysis methods
- Microsoft Excel
- Scientific writing
Timeline
REU Program
Missouri Botanical Gardens
06.2026 - 08.2026
Research Intern
Selby Marie Botanical Gardens
02.2026 - Current
Research Intern
Missouri Botanical Gardens
01.2023 - 04.2023
Volunteer
Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri
09.2010 - Current
Bachelor of Arts - Biology
Eckerd College
High School Diploma -
Collegiate School of Medicine And Bioscience