Zakiya Smith
Summary
Multidisciplinary researcher focused on the intersection of women’s health, microfluidics, sustainability, and neuroscience. Experiences in fluid dynamics, microfluidic device fabrication, and cell-based assays to investigate disease mechanisms and enhance therapeutic delivery. Committed to creating equitable and sustainable biomedical technologies that improve physical and mental health outcomes.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Undergraduate Researcher
Bourouiba Lab
Cambridge, USA
06.2025 - 09.2025
- Conducted experiments on droplet aerodynamics and fluid breakup to study disease transmission.
- Operated high-speed imaging systems to capture transient fluid events.
- Analyzed droplet-size distributions and flow-field behaviors relevant to respiratory infections.
- Explored microfluidic principles for controlled pathogen dispersal studies.
Undergraduate Research Assistant
Straehla Lab
Cambridge, USA
02.2023 - 05.2025
- Designed and fabricated microfluidic devices mimicking the Blood–Brain Barrier for nanoparticle drug testing.
- Performed cell culture, microscopy, and viability assays.
- Maintained high laboratory safety and accurate experiment documentation.
- Supported translational research in targeted therapeutic delivery.
Undergraduate Research Assistant
Gabrieli Lab
Cambridge, USA
05.2024 - 09.2024
- Assisted cognitive neuroscience studies focusing on resilience, learning, and emotional processing.
- Coordinated participant sessions and managed sensitive data.
- Prepared research materials and supported experimental organization.
Resident & Teaching Assistant
SC Governor's School for Science & Math
Hartsville, South Carolina
07.2023 - 07.2024
- Led STEM sessions for diverse student groups with varying learning styles.
- Mentored students academically and personally, fostering a supportive environment.
- Helped maintain a safe and inclusive environment.
Sales Associate
Target
Rock Hill, South Carolina
11.2021 - 08.2023
- Provided customer service and maintained accurate cash transactions.
- Assisted with inventory management and store organization.
Veterinary Assistant
Top Gun Veterinary Services
Rock Hill, South Carolina
03.2022 - 05.2022
- Supported veterinarians during examinations, treatments, and surgeries.
- Assisted with medication administration and patient handling.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Chemical Biological Engineering
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Cambridge, Massachusetts, MA05.2027
High School -
SC Governor's School for Science & Mathematics
05.2023
High School -
South Pointe High School
05.2023
Skills
- Microfluidics design and fabrication
- Cell culture techniques
- Imaging methods
- Sterile techniques
- Fluid dynamics analysis
- Python programming
- MATLAB proficiency
- CAD software skills
- SolidWorks expertise
- Scientific communication
- Technical writing skills
- First aid certification
- CPR and AED certified
- Mental health advocacy
- Patient care and safety
- Medical terminology
- Patient assessments
- Medication administration
Timeline
Undergraduate Researcher
Bourouiba Lab
06.2025 - 09.2025
Undergraduate Research Assistant
Gabrieli Lab
05.2024 - 09.2024
Resident & Teaching Assistant
SC Governor's School for Science & Math
07.2023 - 07.2024
Undergraduate Research Assistant
Straehla Lab
02.2023 - 05.2025
Veterinary Assistant
Top Gun Veterinary Services
03.2022 - 05.2022
Sales Associate
Target
11.2021 - 08.2023
Bachelor of Science - Chemical Biological Engineering
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
High School -
SC Governor's School for Science & Mathematics
High School -
South Pointe High School