Rafael Marco Palaganas
795 123rd Ave, Treasure Island,FL
Summary
Hardworking and goal-driven student-athlete with a strong background in biology, and hands-on experience in CRISPR research and microbiology. Skilled in communication, teamwork, and problem-solving—developed through both academic projects and competing at a high level in collegiate football. Known for performing well under pressure, staying organized, and building strong relationships. Eager to bring a competitive mindset, science knowledge, and people skills to a career in medical device sales.
Overview
1
1
year of professional experience
Work History
Antibacterial Soil Microbe Isolation Project
Dr. Loralyn Cozy
Illinois Wesleyan University , IL
08.2024 - 12.2024
- Isolated soil bacteria and screened them for antibiotic activity against certain pathogens using a lawn assay and zone of inhibition analysis.
- Identified potential antibiotic-producing bacteria through PCR amplification of 16S rRNA, gel electrophoresis, and Sanger sequencing to determine the genus of the antibiotic-producing bacterium.
- Conducted biochemical tests to characterize the physiological traits of the isolate.
- Extracted secondary metabolites that demonstrated antimicrobial activity against other pathogens, indicating the production of bioactive compounds.
CRISPR Gene Editing in Chicken Embryos
Dr. Libby Haywood
Illinois Wesleyan University , IL
01.2024 - 05.2024
- Used CRISPR to study how the MSX-1 gene affects head and facial development in chicken embryos.
- Designed and inserted gRNA into plasmids using enzymes, gel electrophoresis, and ligation.
- Improved cloning results by using fresh cells and adjusting DNA amounts.
- Used software and databases to analyze DNA and confirm plasmid cells.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Biology
Illinois Wesleyan University
Bloomington, Illinois05-2025
Some College (No Degree) -
University of Mount Union
Alliance, OhioSkills
- Familiarity with Microsoft Excel
- Problem solving
- Self-control
- Adaptability
- Communication skills
- Leadership
- Willingness to learn
- Time management
Accomplishments
- Student-Athlete, 08/2021 - 05/2024
- Four-year letterman for football at both the University of Mount Union and Illinois Wesleyan University.
- Competed in the 2022 Division III National Championship for football.
- Academic All-Conference during the 2022 Fall semester.
- Selected by teammates as the Most Valuable Special Teams player for the 2023 season.
- Finished top 20 in Division III for punt return yards in 2023.
- Balanced a full-time Undergraduate level academic course load with 40+ hours a week in practice, travel, competition, and watching film.
- Recognized on the Spring 2025 Dean’s List for academic achievement.
Timeline
Antibacterial Soil Microbe Isolation Project
Dr. Loralyn Cozy
08.2024 - 12.2024
CRISPR Gene Editing in Chicken Embryos
Dr. Libby Haywood
01.2024 - 05.2024
Bachelor of Arts - Biology
Illinois Wesleyan University
Some College (No Degree) -
University of Mount Union
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