Reshma Ramakrishnan

Extraction of Carvacrol from Oregano Leaves Using Organic Solvents

• Conducted laboratory research evaluating the effectiveness of multiple organic solvents (methanol, ethanol, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, and hexane) for extracting carvacrol from oregano leaves using the maceration technique.
• Analyzed solvent polarity and extraction efficiency to determine optimal conditions for compound isolation.
• Identified hexane as the most effective solvent, demonstrating that less polar solvents yield higher extraction efficiency than polar solvents.
• Strengthened skills in experimental design, data analysis, and application of pharmaceutical chemistry principles.

Literature Review Research-Biology/Social Sciences

• Conducted an in-depth literature review examining success factors for women of color in higher education using peer-reviewed journals, case studies, surveys, and interviews.
• Analyzed qualitative and quantitative data to identify key success factors, including financial support, family support, and motivation.
• Evaluated retention and persistence trends among women of color, including student parents and first-generation college students, using evidence-based research methods.
• Developed research questions, synthesized findings, and presented conclusions in a structured academic paper.
• Strengthened skills in critical thinking, data interpretation, academic writing, and evidence-based analysis applicable to pharmacy research and clinical decision-making.

Organic Chemistry Laboratory Research

Fischer Esterification: Synthesis and Characterization of Isoamyl Acetate

• Performed organic synthesis of isoamyl acetate using the Fischer esterification method under acidic reflux conditions.
• Set up and operated a reflux apparatus and conducted reaction workup using liquid–liquid extraction techniques.
• Purified products using separatory funnels, diethyl ether extraction, sodium carbonate washes, and anhydrous magnesium sulfate drying.
• Calculated limiting reactants, theoretical yield, actual yield, and percent yield, achieving approximately 70% yield.
• Characterized the ester using IR spectroscopy and GC-MS analysis to confirm functional groups and product identity.
• Strengthened skills in laboratory safety, quantitative analysis, experimental documentation, and drug formulation principles.

Independent Research Proposal-Pharmacology & Molecular Biology

Effect of Fluoxetine on Conjugation Efficiency via Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS)

• Designed an independent research proposal investigating the effects of varying fluoxetine concentrations on conjugation efficiency through stimulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS).
• Conducted an extensive literature review on ROS, oxidative stress, bacterial conjugation, and SSRI pharmacology to support hypothesis development.
• Proposed and justified three experimental approaches:
  Cell-based conjugation assays using Escherichia coli
  Biochemical assays to quantify ROS production
  Flow cytometry to analyze conjugation efficiency and oxidative stress in mammalian cells
• Applied pharmacological principles to evaluate how drug concentration influences cellular metabolism, drug conjugation, and therapeutic outcomes.
• Developed hypotheses, experimental controls, and statistical analysis plans (ANOVA) to assess dose-dependent effects.
• Strengthened skills in scientific writing, experimental design, and critical analysis relevant to pharmacy research and evidence-based practice.

Community Health Outreach Volunteer

• Assisted with community health outreach events focused on promoting medication safety, wellness education, and preventive care.
• Supported blood pressure and blood glucose screenings under healthcare professional supervision.
• Educated community members on healthy lifestyle habits, medication adherence, and the importance of routine health screenings.
• Strengthened communication skills while serving diverse and underserved populations.

Youth Mentorship Volunteer

• Supported youth through mentorship activities, academic encouragement, and positive role modeling.
• Assisted with homework help, study organization, and goal-setting discussions.
• Strengthened leadership, accountability, and communication skills.

Medical Assistant Volunteer

• Assisted healthcare staff with non-clinical and basic clinical support tasks in an outpatient or community health setting.
• Prepared examination rooms, organized supplies, and ensured a clean and safe patient care environment.
• Supported patient intake by escorting patients, verifying basic information, and maintaining confidentiality.
• Assisted with vital signs (blood pressure, height, weight) under supervision, as permitted.
• Helped organize patient education materials and reinforced instructions provided by healthcare professionals.
• Demonstrated professionalism, empathy, and effective communication while interacting with diverse patient populations.

DC Running Club

• Active member of a community-based running club promoting physical fitness, consistency, and stress management.
• Participated in regular group runs and training sessions, demonstrating discipline, perseverance, and commitment to personal wellness.
• Engaged with a diverse community of members, strengthening teamwork and accountability while balancing academic and professional responsibilities.

Time Management & Study Skills Workshops

• Attended academic success workshops focused on effective time management, study strategies, and exam preparation to enhance academic performance.

Cross Country (Student-Athlete)

• Competed as a student-athlete, developing discipline, endurance, and strong time-management skills while balancing academic and professional responsibilities.

• Pharmacy Leadership Scholarship
• PTCB certified as a Pharmacy Technician in DC