Research Assistant

BORNA ZAREIESFANDABADI

Mebane, NC 919-***-**** ️ *****.*****@*****.*** Linkedin.com/in/borna-zareiesfandabadi Biology graduate with hands-on experience in molecular biology techniques, including DNA extraction, PCR, and gel electrophoresis, gained through academic research and lab-based coursework. Skilled in bacterial culture, aseptic technique, reagent preparation, and maintaining detailed lab records. Proficient in data analysis using Python, R, and Excel. Experienced in following protocols, troubleshooting lab issues, and supporting efficient lab coordination. Committed to ensuring accuracy, reliability, and compliance in lab environments.

EDUCATION

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC — B.S. in Quantitative Biology, 2025 Durham Technical Community College, NC — A.S. in Environmental Science, 2022 EXPERIENCE

Research Assistant Poulsen Lab January 2023-July 2024

• Collected biological samples from 4 diurnal and 2 nocturnal lemurs to extract seeds for germination studies

• Processed samples and measured seed dimensions; monitored and recorded germination

• Maintained detailed records of biological samples and seed germination data

• As part of course credit, used Python and Jupyter Notebook to analyze and visualize seed germination data

• Co-edited a 2025 Ecology and Evolution paper examining factors influencing germination of lemur-passed seeds Field Research Intern Duke Lemur Center May 2022-August 2022

• Conducted behavioral observations on 7 diurnal lemur species using scan sampling; recorded thermoregulation, grooming, foraging, and social interactions

• Entered observational data into Microsoft Excel to support long-term behavioral datasets used by DLC researchers

• Designed and presented a project on how dominant female’s activity influences the troop’s spatial distribution Microbiology Lab Assistant Durham Technical Community College August 2021-May 2022

• Prepared bacterial media and maintained inventory to ensure smooth lab operations for weekly microbiology course experiments

• Mentored new work-study students in media preparation and aseptic technique

• Conducted an independent SEA-PHAGES project by isolating and characterizing Gordonia westfalica bacteriophages, performing bacterial culture and DNA extraction

Team Member Whole Foods Market March 2017-May 2022

• Managed inventory and ordering for plants and garden products in a high-volume retail environment

• Maintained organized and visually appealing displays

• Tracked costs and ensured timely replenishment of products PUBLICATIONS

• DeSisto, C. M. M., Zandry, Z., Feno, T., Zareiesfandabadi, B., et al. (2025). Functional traits and phylogenetic effects drive germination of lemur passed seeds. Ecology and Evolution, 15, e70881.

• Adams, A. J., … Zareiesfandabadi, B., & Fogarty, M. P. (2022). Genome sequences of two Gordonia rubripertincta cluster DJ bacteriophages, Pherobrine and Burley. Microbiology Resource Announcements, 11(12), e01024-22. AWARDS & GRANTS

• Scholars for Conservation Leadership Program – USDA Forest Service and Land Trust Alliance (2023)

• Molly Glander Research Award – Duke Lemur Center (2023) SKILLS

• Wet-Lab Techniques: PCR, gel electrophoresis, DNA extraction, primer design, aseptic technique, bacterial culture, gas chromatography, and high-performance liquid chromatography

• Computational Tools: Python, R, Linux, MATLAB, Microsoft Suite, RNA-seq analysis, ChIP-seq analysis, and genome annotation of phage

• Languages: Farsi (fluent), Arabic and Turkish (intermediate)

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