Following my role as Laboratory Technical Specialist at Amherst College, I was hired by Dr. Rebecca Hewitt to assist in wrapping up grant work for a large-scale soil processing project. This project involved multiple research labs studying the ingrowth of spruce trees in Alaska’s Brooks Range Tree line in response to global warming. Dr. Hewitt’s research focused on ectomycorrhizal fungi and soil life, with her lab responsible for managing soil analysis. Though this research topic was outside of my area of expertise, I was excited to participate in climate-focused work and apply my laboratory management skills to a new field.
Trained and supervised 14 students in soil core processing, ensuring efficient and accurate sample handling and labeling
Successfully processed nearly 700 soil cores, removing rocks and debris, and identifying spruce roots, all while meeting a tight deadline.
Coordinated sample collection and analysis including pH; density; mineral content; carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus content; and spruce root amount for >4,000 subsamples.
Extracted and prepared DNA for sequencing from >500 soil samples, carefully preventing contamination and mislabeling.
Prepared advisor for summer fieldwork by providing sample labels and equipment, and managed lab in her absence.
Managed purchases for the project through the Workday system, ensuring timely procurement of supplies charged to appropriate funds.
Adapted to changing project requirements, adjusting timeline to meet new demands and ensuring successful project completion.