Tisha A. Haukongo
Houston,Texas
Summary
Motivated and detail-oriented undergraduate researcher with foundational experience in synthetic microbiomes, microbial metabolism, host–microbe interactions, and biochemical analysis. Interested in how molecular mechanisms underlie disease processes, particularly in the context of infection, cellular stress, and aging. Curious about systems biology and multi-omics approaches for understanding gene–environment–microbe interactions. Eager to contribute to biomedical research through an integrative lens, combining wet-lab and computational tools. Also a lifelong music lover and violinist.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
Work History
Undergraduate Research Assistant
University of Houston
Houston, Texas
05.2024 - 05.2025
- Trained in independent research methods to study plant stress physiology and plant–microbe interactions.
- Explored plant biochemistry and microbial metabolism, focusing on secondary metabolites (organic acids, indole acetic acid) and enzymatic activity.
- Gained hands-on experience with RNA extraction, qRT-PCR, HPLC, GC-MS, and microplate fluorescence assays to analyze gene expression and microbial function.
- Collaborated with graduate students on laboratory experiments, protocol optimization, and troubleshooting.
- Communicated experimental results through research presentations and team discussions.
- Prepared plant and microbial samples, maintained sterile technique, and supported lab operations.
Student Ambassador
University of Houston
Houston, TX
08.2022 - 05.2023
- Gained experience in public speaking through leading workshops and presentations for new students.
- Conducted new student orientations to facilitate retention and foster positive attitude towards attending university.
- Developed strong communication and interpersonal skills by representing the university at various events.
- Shared first-hand information about college experience with prospective students.
- Led campus tours for potential students and their families, highlighting key facilities and student services.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Biotechnology
University of Houston
Houston, Texas05.2025
Associate of Science - Life Science
San Jacinto College
Houston, Texas12.2021
Skills
- Computational Tools: Basic cluster computing (SLURM), scientific computing with C and Python, R programming for statistical analysis and data visualization, basic Bash scripting and Linux/Unix command-line navigation
- Bioinformatics: Basic NGS data analysis (quality control, read alignment), FASTA/FASTQ file handling and sequence annotation tools (BLAST, Prokka, RAST)
- Statistical & Data Analysis: Data visualization in Excel, ParaView, Power BI, Tableau; statistical analysis using GraphPad Prism and R
- Laboratory Techniques: Chromatography (HPLC, GC-MS), RNA extraction, qRT-PCR, microplate-based biochemical and antioxidant assays, sterile technique, sample preparation
- Software Proficiency: Microsoft Office Suite, GraphPad Prism, Excel advanced functions (pivot tables, regression)
- Other Skills: Scientific writing and figure preparation; interdisciplinary communication; collaborative research experience
Volunteer Experience
Baytown Family Practice, Houtston, Texas:
- Documenting diagnoses, health records and coding using softwares like NextGen and Arcadia
St. John the Divine Episcopal Church, Houston, Texas:
- Sunday school teacher assistant
- Volunteer Musician
Bible Study Fellwoship:
- Volunteer Musician
Project One Day:
- Volunteer Musician
Affiliations
American Medical Student Association Member
Biotechnology Research
Non-music Major Orchestra - University of Houston
Pickle Ball Club Member - University of Houston
Languages
Afrikaans
Native/ Bilingual
Spanish
Elementary
Research & Presentations
- Synthetic Microbiomes for Plant Stress Tolerance – Senior Honors Thesis, University of Houston (May 2025)
- Presenter, Undergraduate Research Day, University of Houston (2025)
Publication in Progress
- Co-author, Synthetic Communities from Hypersaline Habitats Offer Salinity Stress Tolerance to Crop Plants (Manuscript in Preparation)
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Undergraduate Research Assistant
University of Houston
05.2024 - 05.2025
Student Ambassador
University of Houston
08.2022 - 05.2023
Bachelor of Science - Biotechnology
University of Houston
Associate of Science - Life Science
San Jacinto College
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