Clinical Research Assistant

Szymon Sornat

773-***-**** ******.******@*****.***

EDUCATION

Loyola University Chicago Chicago, IL Expected Graduation: May 2025

● Major: Bachelor of Science in Biology with Molecular Biology Emphasis

● Major GPA: 3.4

● Relevant Coursework: Molecular Genetics, Epigenetics, Cell Physiology Lab, Molecular Pathogenesis of Cancer EXPERIENCE

Dr. Grace Muller’s Lab Maywood, IL May 2024 - August 2024 Cardiac Physiology Research Intern

● Investigated the effectiveness of multiple drugs on second messenger signaling in cardiac contractility using guinea pig models.

● Employed molecular biology techniques (DNA/RNA isolation, PCR, RT-PCR, qPCR, E. coli transformation, cell transfection, and specimen culturing) to prepare left ventricular cardiomyocytes for experimental workflows involving downstream analysis of GPCR activity via FRET-based biosensors, IonOptix-based calcium signaling assays, and cell function testing; monitored and analyzed data with statistical software.

● Proficient in sterile laboratory techniques including aseptic handling of cell cultures, DNA/RNA extraction, and PCR/qPCR processes to ensure sample integrity and prevent contamination in molecular biology workflows

● Performed genomic sample preparation, data analysis, and quality control (QC) across laboratory workflows in alignment with standard operating procedures (SOPs) in a clinical laboratory setting.

● Performed microbial cultivation, nucleic acid extraction, and DNA/RNA quantification to support biomarker discovery and strain engineering projects.

● Participated in lab meetings, contributing to discussions on research methodologies, experimental design, and data interpretation. Presented research findings at the annual Basic Cardiovascular Symposium in Chicago. American Energy Technologies Company Wheeling, IL October 2022 - August 2023 Chemical Research Engineer Intern

● Characterized and evaluated the optimization of carbon-based materials for enhanced energy storage by conducting dry laboratory experiments, including techniques such as microscopic particle imaging, tap density, laser-assisted particle analysis, and particle surface analysis.

● Performed statistical data analysis to generate reports and presentations on advancements in carbon-based material optimization for government agencies and international partners.

● Repaired, calibrated, and operated laboratory equipment to minimize downtime and ensure operational efficiency Walgreens Pharmacy Park Ridge, IL September 2021 - May 2022 Pharmacy Technician

● Administered hundreds of rapid COVID-19 tests and instructed patients on how to safely and effectively prepare test samples.

● Gathered patient medical information for prescription processing and facilitated pharmacist consultations.

● Managed drug inventory through accurate order processing and system updates.

● Provided patient education on proper medication usage and storage. LEADERSHIP & INVOLVEMENT

Polish Student Alliance Class Representative Loyola University Chicago August 2021 - Present

● Planned and executed club events, fostering collaboration with the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign's Zagłoba Polish Club to organize joint initiatives. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

● Certification: Certified Nurse Assistant (May 2021) Certified Pharmacy Technician (October 2021)

● Language Skills: Polish & English (Fluent)

● Technology Skills: Microsoft Excel, Prism, Java

● Interests: Science Communication, Weightlifting, Philosophy, Travel

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