shalerra Sonnier
Ellenwood,GA
2024
years of professional experience
Detail-oriented Biochemistry graduate with hands-on experience in PCR, DNA and protein analysis, enzyme kinetics, and spectroscopy. Engaged in research that deepens understanding of molecular biological processes and enhances communication of scientific findings. Pursuing graduate education to further develop research skills and advance a career in biochemical elements.
Work History
Undergraduate Research Student
- Assisted in data collection and analysis using statistical software for research accuracy.
- Collaborated with team members to design experiments and troubleshoot methodologies.
- Documented research findings and contributed to draft reports for publication.
- Conducted literature reviews to support research objectives and project development.
- Developed presentation materials for sharing research results with faculty and peers.
- Maintained laboratory equipment and ensured compliance with safety protocols during experiments.
- Gained valuable hands-on experience by conducting experiments under the guidance of expert faculty mentors, increasing technical skill set in various methodologies.
- Developed strong problem-solving abilities by tackling complex research questions and challenges.
- Contributed to the drafting and editing of manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals, demonstrating strong writing skills and attention to detail.
Laboratory Assignment Developement
- Collaborated with laboratory instructors to develop a PCR laboratory assignment for current undergraduate Biochemistry students
- Applied findings from a PCR research project to help develop a dry-lab exercise designed to teach subsequent students PCR methodology and data interpretation
- Translated experimental concepts and procedures into clear, student-accessible instructional materials
- Contributed to the development and refinement of educational materials for undergraduate laboratory instruction
- Developed laboratory questions designed to assess students' understanding of PCR methodology, experimental procedures, data analysis, and scientific concepts
Tutor
1 Year 7 Months- Facilitated engaging tutoring sessions, enhancing student comprehension and retention of material.
- Provided constructive feedback to students, fostering a growth mindset and improving academic performance.
- Developed customized lesson plans to cater to diverse learning styles and individual student needs.
- Utilized educational technology tools to track student progress and adapt instructional strategies effectively.
- Assisted in the preparation of educational materials and resources to support effective learning environments.
- Monitored student engagement levels, implementing strategies to maintain motivation during sessions.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Biochemistry
- Dean's List [Fall 2021, Fall 2024]
- Hope Scholarship Recipient [2021-2024]
- Relevant Coursework: Advanced Biochemistry I & II, General Chemistry, Quantitative Analytical Chemistry, Modern Organic Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, Biostatistics, Genetics, Quantum Chemistry, Physics I & II
- Minorities in Medicine Member
- American Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Skills
Laboratory Techniques: PCR
Western Blotting
ELISA
Plasmid Preparation
Restriction Enzyme Digestion
Agarose gel Electrophoresis
Enzyme Kinetics
Crystallography
Bradford Protein Assay
SDS-PAGE
UV-Vis Spectroscopy
ICP-OES
NMR
IR
HPLC
GC-MS
Chromatography
Titration
Software & Data Analysis: NCBI/Blast
PyMOL
Microsoft Excel
NEBcutter
Accomplishments
Research Presentations
- Analysis of p38 MAP Kinase Activity Towards MKNK1 Variants|Kennesaw State University | Undergraduate Research Symposium| Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry | 2025-2026
- Investigated the activity of p38 MAP kinase toward MKNK1 protein variants using kinase assays and Western blot analysis
- Evaluated phosphorylation activity across MKNK1 variants to investigate differences in kinase activity
- Presented research finding in a scientific poster presentation at an undergraduate research symposium
- GFP Y66H Site-Directed Mutagenic via Overlap Extension PCR|Kennesaw State University| 2026
Timeline
Tutor
09.2021 - 04.2023Read More
Undergraduate Research Student
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Laboratory Assignment Developement
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Kennesaw State University
Bachelor of Science from Biochemistry
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