Open to opportunities

Kennedy Spears

@kennedyspears

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Aspiring geneticist with hands-on research and teaching experience.

United States

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What I'm looking for

I am looking for opportunities that allow me to apply my genetics knowledge in research or education, fostering growth in a collaborative environment.

I am an undergraduate student pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences with a concentration in Genetics and Cellular Biology at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. With a GPA of 3.6, I have developed a strong foundation in molecular genetics through my coursework and hands-on research experience. My role as an Undergraduate Research Assistant in the SIUE Undergraduate Research and Creative Activities Program has allowed me to utilize advanced laboratory techniques such as PCR, DNA extraction, and transformation to study genetic mutations in fungi. This experience has not only honed my technical skills but also deepened my passion for genetic research.

In addition to my research, I have gained valuable leadership and communication skills through my position as an Assistant Manager at Harr Family Farms, where I manage inventory and data collection in a fast-paced environment. I also share my love for dance as an instructor at Sanctuary Dance Academy, where I prepare lessons and choreograph performances. My involvement in the St. Louis Center for Advanced Professional Studies program allowed me to educate younger students about cancer research, further solidifying my commitment to science education and community outreach.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Dance Instructor

Sanctuary Dance Academy

Jan 2024 - Present (1 year 6 months)

Teaching and communicating new dance skills, preparing lessons for class each week, and choreographing for performances/recitals. Effective communication between my supervisor and I to maintain effective lessons.

Dance Instruction Lesson planning Communication Performance Preparation Teaching Mentoring Creative Arts Public Speaking Team Leadership

Undergraduate Research Assistant

SIUE Undergraduate Research and Creative Activities (URCA) P

Jan 2023 - Present (2 years 6 months)

Used molecular genetics and recombinant DNA laboratory techniques such as PCR, DNA extraction, and transformation to study an unknown mutant in fungi. Developed a plasmid clone to initiate a knockout in the fungi genome.

PCR Fungi Research Data Analysis Genetics

Assistant Manager

Harr Family Farms

Jan 2020 - Present (5 years 6 months)

Work in a fast-paced environment in collaboration with my fellow employees. Responsible for inventory and data collection to ensure quality in products.

Inventory Management Data Collection Teamwork Fast Paced Environment Quality Control Product Management Collaboration Communication Problem Solving Customer Service

Senior Capstone Project

St. Louis Center for Advanced Professional Studies (CAPS) Pr

Jan 2020 - Present (5 years 6 months)

Spread awareness about cancer research by educating middle school and high school students. Collaborated with and supported by genetic counselor mentor.

Education Public Speaking Collaboration Mentorship Genetic Counseling Community Outreach Project Management Presentation Skills Research

Volunteer

Pedal the Cause

Jan 2020 - Present (5 years 6 months)

Made super-hero capes for the kids biking challenge. Volunteered at water and snack table during race day.

Volunteer coordination Community Engagement Teamwork Logistics Communication Creative Arts Childcare

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

Bachelors of Science, Biological Sciences

Grade: 3.6 GPA

Activities and societies: Undergraduate Research Assistant in the SIUE Undergraduate Research and Creative Activities (URCA) Program. Used molecular genetics and recombinant DNA laboratory techniques such as PCR, DNA extraction, and transformation to study an unknown mutant in fungi. Developed a plasmid clone to initiate a knockout in the fungi genome.

Pursued a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences with a concentration in Genetics and Cellular Biology. Gained expertise in molecular genetics and recombinant DNA laboratory techniques.

St. Louis Center for Advanced Professional Studies (CAPS) Program

Senior Capstone Project, Cancer Research Education

Activities and societies: Collaborated with and supported by a genetic counselor mentor.

Participated in the St. Louis Center for Advanced Professional Studies (CAPS) Program, completing a senior capstone project. Focused on spreading awareness about cancer research by educating middle school and high school students.