Yetong Dong

As a research assistant, I help with every part of a research project. This includes designing and performing experiments and writing scientific documents. It also involves presenting research findings at lab meetings to diverse audiences. I participated in a project looked at the effects of certain chemicals in the environment. We wanted to see how these chemicals could affect cellular processes of mammals. If cells can’t do what they need to do, it will affect the organism’s health. Some interesting experiments I did were cell culturing (this is growing cells under the specific conditions). I also did DNA, RNA and protein extraction from cells.

My work had a heavy emphasis on STEM related skills. These involved such things as critical thinking, problem-solving and analytical skills. I often had to use these skills to design and troubleshoot experiments. Interpersonal and communication skills were also important. I worked with other research assistants and graduate students to perform experiments. We also had regular team meetings. In these meetings, we shared our progress and to discussed future goals. I worked with a lot of specialized equipment. This included things like microscopes, centrifuges and an imaging machine. My biology degree greatly helped me succeed in this profession. The lab courses I took during my 4th year equipped me with all the essential laboratory skills.