Taliyah Wood

Biology graduate with 5 years of experience in research and front desk roles, demonstrating a collaborative approach in both scientific and customer service environments. Proficient in laboratory techniques such as PCR, gel electrophoresis, and microscopy, alongside CRM and project management skills. Committed to leveraging analytical abilities and teamwork to contribute to innovative research and enhance operational efficiency.

COMMUNITY-ENGAGED RESEARCH

• August 2020 - May 2025 Contributed to community centered research projects addressing local health disparities and environmental issues, with a focus on biology-based topics. Designed and implemented studies in collaboration with local organizations, schools, and public health partners to ensure that scientific inquiry reflected the needs and perspectives of underserved populations. Engaged youth and community members through interactive science workshops, educational outreach events, and accessible research presentations. Specialized in translating complex biological data such as findings from environmental monitoring or public health studies into clear, engaging materials for public education. Promoted equity in science by fostering inclusive communication strategies and building trust between researchers and the communities they serve.

PUBLIC HEALTH-ORIENTED RESEARCH

• August 2020-May 2025: Engaged in interdisciplinary, laboratory-based research addressing a wide range of public health concerns, including biological, environmental, and technology-related health risks. Applied biological techniques such as PCR, gel electrophoresis, DNA barcoding, and microbial culturing to analyze disease vectors, contaminants, and biomarkers relevant to public health. Conducted risk assessments of environmental and technological exposures such as air and water quality, chemical agents, and digital health tools through data collection, experimentation, and literature-based review. Synthesized scientific findings into accessible formats for public health education initiatives, focusing on empowering community members with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their health. Contributed to research efforts aimed at informing evidence-based health policy and promoting equity in health outcomes, particularly in underserved communities. Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to design and execute studies that bridged lab science with real-world health challenges, ensuring that research findings had practical implications for both policy development and population-level health interventions.

CURE (UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH EXPERIENCE)

• Feb 2021 - May 2021: Conducted environmental microbiology research on water contamination in Bowie, MD. Collected water samples and analyzed bacteria growth from local rivers and ponds
• Oct 2021 - Dec 2021: Investigated the vitamin C content in various vegetables, performing lab experiments to assess nutritional integrity
• Oct 2022 - Dec 2022: Studied Barn Owl diets on Kauai, analyzing their impact on local endangered species and overall food consumption patterns.
• Nov 2024-Dec 2024: Conducted in-depth research on ovarian cancer, including its cellular biology and progression, and contributed to laboratory work involving cancer cell samples. I also translated scientific findings into accessible content for a public awareness website, helping bridge research with community education.
• Aug 2024 – Dec 2024: Researching the effects of turmeric on the skin microbiome. Conducting experiments to test if turmeric disrupts beneficial skin bacteria, using DNA barcoding for fungal identification.
• March 2025-May 2025: Investigated the potential health risks associated with non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation (EMR) emitted by common devices such as iPhones and iPads. The research focused on measuring and comparing background radiofrequency (RF) radiation to emissions during typical device use, analyzing how proximity and user behavior influence radiation intensity. The findings aimed to inform safe technology practices and contribute to public health policy discussions around EMR exposure.