MADELINE MORAN
Raleigh,North Carolina
Summary
Experienced research professional with a strong background in laboratory operations and R&D, ready to build upon analytical and research skills in graduate education. Prepared to begin as a PhD student and make meaningful contributions with commitment and drive.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
Work History
Research Volunteer
UVA Department of Perceptual Studies
Charlottesville, VA
03.2026 - Current
- Collected and synthesized literature on neuroscience, neurobiology, genetics, epigenetics, psychology, and spirituality to identify genetic backgrounds for psi experience; utilized search engines like NotebookLM, Consensus, and Google Scholar to ensure publication validity and relevance.
- Synthesized findings into a clear format for a review paper, formulated conclusions, and established connections and hypotheses to support investigation of genetic basis of psi.
- Collaborated with DOPS to ensure quality and relevance of the research paper.
Research Assistant
Forest Biotech Group NCSU
02.2026 - Current
- Assisted with laboratory tasks, designed experiments, collected data, performed literature reviews, and mentored students in plant tissue culture and wet chemistry techniques to enhance research capabilities.
- Designed, proposed, led, and executed scientific plan for a project titled' Transgene free selection in E. grandis and GloNi utilizing RNP particle bombardment.' The goal of this project is to develop a method for screening genetically transformed plant callus tissue from unedited material, speeding up timelines for producing edited material. A large gap in transgene free editing using RNP complexes (different from CRISPR gene editing, as no foreign DNA is introduced) is the ability to screen edited material.
- Trained new staff on laboratory protocols, enhancing overall team efficiency and compliance.
- Created a Gantt chart outlining project tasks and milestones, adapted goals and timelines based on research findings, and communicated updates to peers and supervisors to ensure alignment.
- Presented research progress monthly to the lab team and every three months to project stakeholders. Modified approaches in response to real time feedback and learning as experiments progressed. Monitored relevant literature and updated project plan as needed.
- Worked closely with current PhD students and post-docs, receiving guidance on research best practice and critical thinking in an academic landscape.
- Acceptance into PhD program in Forestry at NCSU. Deferred admission in the interest of pursuing Neuroscience at UVA.
Career Break - Personal Goal Pursuit
Legacy Makings
09.2025 - 01.2026
- Operated personal business specializing in foraged animal bone art and jewelry, focusing on unique handcrafted items.
- Engaged with 4000+ attendees at large-scale market events and 100-200 attendees at smaller events, managed table solo for 6+ hours, fostered customer relationships, promoted brand, and upheld high quality standards.
- Fulfilled commissions and refined products. Produced over 500 items and sold them at market events and three storefronts.
- Designed and taught class “Meditate and Paint,” guiding participants through a spoken meditation to access their subconscious, providing 1:1 support in creating imagery that reflects their experience.
Research Assistant III
Syngenta Biotechnology
Durham, NC
03.2023 - 09.2025
- Collaborated with scientists and researchers to enhance production and viability of crops and seeds for agricultural applications, leveraging field and laboratory experience.
- Contributed to multiple projects for senior researchers on corn, soy, rice, tomato, and sunflower plants. Balanced duties and managed time effectively.
- Contributed toward a publication currently under review exploring the impact of edited photoperiod genes on tropical maize lines
- Assisted in the development and optimization of protocols for genetic transformation experiments.
- Presented research findings at internal meetings, facilitating knowledge sharing among team members.
- Contributed to US patent WO2025198955A1 related to large scale corn pollination methods using oil as a carrier.
- Developed a new method for extracting long stranded DNA from corn pollen, a notoriously difficult tissue.
- Developed a new media for sunflower pollen germination by modifying solid media nutrients and the balance of various sugars.
- Sterile hood experience, DNA extraction, Nucleic acid purification, PCR, Transformation, Gene sequencing data interpretation, Molecular biology training.
Student Acad. Research and Lab. Assistant
Forest Biotech Group, NCSU
05.2021 - 05.2022
- Worked in a sterile hood and greenhouse with genetically modified P. trichocarpa plants. Maintained inventory, monitored health and growth patterns.
- Worked with a team of highly skilled scientists and researchers in support of creating the first genetically modified woody plant species. Aimed at reducing lignin content to reduce processing water and energy costs.
- Documented experimental procedures and results to maintain accurate records for future reference.
Plant Propagation Technician
Bloomify LLC
Morrisville, NC
06.2022 - 12.2022
- Organized and maintained large quantities of in vitro plants, followed detailed instructions, produced large quantities of products in sterile hood daily.
- Researched rose in vitro cultivation, applying artistic concepts to develop new products for sale and presenting ideas to the owner.
Senior Caregiver
Golden Harmony Home Care
Raleigh, NC
02.2021 - 03.2023
- Assisted seniors with daily tasks, errands, and companionship to enhance quality of life.
- Supported clients with Alzheimer's, Dementia, and other conditions, fostering a safe and comforting environment.
- Delivered comprehensive in-home, overnight, assisted living, and hospital care, ensuring comfort and safety.
Hostess, Food Runner
Midtown Grille
Raleigh, NC
10.2019 - 02.2020
- US
Education
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) - Environmental Science: Emerging Science and Technology Ethics
North Carolina State University
Raleigh, NC, US05-2022
Cognitive Science
North Carolina State University
Raleigh, NC, US05-2022
Skills
- Research methods
- Literature synthesis
- Literature reviews
- Experimental field techniques
- Fieldwork experience
- Laboratory operations and safety
- Exploratory research
- Laboratory protocol development
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Attention to detail
Timeline
Research Volunteer
UVA Department of Perceptual Studies
03.2026 - Current
Research Assistant
Forest Biotech Group NCSU
02.2026 - Current
Career Break - Personal Goal Pursuit
Legacy Makings
09.2025 - 01.2026
Research Assistant III
Syngenta Biotechnology
03.2023 - 09.2025
Plant Propagation Technician
Bloomify LLC
06.2022 - 12.2022
Student Acad. Research and Lab. Assistant
Forest Biotech Group, NCSU
05.2021 - 05.2022
Senior Caregiver
Golden Harmony Home Care
02.2021 - 03.2023
Hostess, Food Runner
Midtown Grille
10.2019 - 02.2020
Cognitive Science
North Carolina State University
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) - Environmental Science: Emerging Science and Technology Ethics
North Carolina State University