Reese K. Ciecko
***********@*****.*** ***********@***.*** 203-***-**** Tampa, FL Madison, CT www.linkedin.com/in/reese-c-29a550345 EDUCATION
Bachelor of Science in Cell and Molecular Biology Expected May 2027 University of South Florida (USF), Tampa, FL
Overall GPA: 3.97/4.0
USF Dean’s List of Scholars: Fall 2024, Spring 2025, & Fall 2025 Relevant Coursework: Cell Biology, General Genetics, Biological Cellular Processes, Biological Diversity, Developmental Embryology, Aging Sciences, Medical Botany, Statistics, Life Sciences Calculus, General Physics, General & Organic Chemistry RESEARCH EXPERIENCE
Advanced Undergraduate Research Experience, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL January 2026-May 2026 Research Mentors: Namrata Gautam, Ph.D & Kelly Resendes
● Investigated the effect of the artificial sweetener, saccharin, on B-cell lymphoma A20 cell line proliferation and survival using molecular and cellular biological approaches to contribute valuable insights to cancer research.
● Analyzed cellular changes by counting treated cells with hemocytometers to assess the percentage of total cells. Utilized cell staining with 0.4% Trypan Blue dye to assess percent survival. Observed molecular changes via RNA purification and extraction, nucleic acid quantification, cDNA synthesis, RT-PCR, and agarose gel electrophoresis to analyze the expression of genes of interest.
● Performed statistical analyses through t-tests and ANOVA to evaluate data sets and demonstrate the significance of the findings.
● Collaborated with a multidisciplinary research team to form hypotheses, identify experimental controls and sources of error, and troubleshoot strategies based on data interpretation. Conducted a literature search of peer-reviewed journals for research relevance and background. Presented the experimental system and findings at lab meetings and through a written research paper to share significant data for future studies.
WORK EXPERIENCE
Student Assistant, University of South Florida,Tampa, FL March 2026-Present
● Analyzed statewide involuntary Baker Act examination data to support reporting and research initiatives within the Department of Behavioral Health Sciences and Practice.
● Received, processed, and entered data from petitions, treatment plants, and court orders for involuntary placement/services submitted by County Clerks of Court. Reviewed and managed documentation related to Marchman Act cases, ensuring accuracy and completeness of records for statewide tracking and compliance. Office Assistant, Gate Guard, & Patrol, Department of Beach & Recreation, Madison, CT June 2023 - Present
● Entered guest personal and financial information into the town system, managed sales records, processed financial transactions, and compiled demographic and revenue data for departmental reporting to facilitate organization, communication, and proper documentation.
● Communicated town policies to the public, answered guest inquiries, and ensured regulatory compliance as an office assistant at the sales office and security patrol at various beach locations to promote awareness and park safety. Customer Service Representative, The Trees Remember, Middlefield, CT October 2020 - August 2021
● Processed and fulfilled customer purchase orders, entered sales data into Excel spreadsheets for company records, and reviewed customer financial data for payments and purchase details to order memorial tree planting at the correct forest locations. Prepared and mailed complementary cards to customers to express company gratuity.
● Attentively corresponded with customers via phone and email to resolve inquiries and ensure exceptional service. SKILLS
● Technical & Laboratory Skills: Cell culture techniques, RNA purification/extraction, RT-PCR, cDNA synthesis, gel electrophoresis, live/dead assays, experimental design, data presentation
● Data & Statistical Analysis: t-tests, ANOVA, laboratory experimental data, business and finance analytics
● Customer Service & Sales: Point-of-sale transactions, order fulfilment, guest communication
● Computer Proficiency: Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Teams, Outlook, PowerPoint), Google Workspace
● Project Management: Organization of workplace events and in academic settings
● Language: Fluent in Spanish (speaking, reading, writing) Evaluated May 2023 CERTIFICATIONS
● CPR May 2025
● DCF HIPAA March 2026
● DCF Security Awareness March 2026
● CITI Social/Behavioral Investigators and Key Personnel March 2026
● Introduction to Baker Act March 2026
● Introduction to Marchman Act March 2026
● 2024 Legislative Updates to the Baker and Marchman Acts March 2026 MEMBERSHIPS & AFFILIATIONS
● Member, Minorities in Medicine May 2026-Present
● Member, USF A.I. and Technology in Medicine September 2025-Present
● Member, American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at USF August 2025-Present
● Member, USF Biology Club September 2024-Present
● Member, USF Molecular Biosciences Club September 2024-Present
● Member, Chemistry Society at USF September 2024-Present
● Member, Marine Biology Club at USF September 2024-Present
● Member, National Honor Society May 2023-Present
COMMUNITY SERVICE & VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE
The National Exchange Club, Madison, CT September 2021-May 2024
● Worked at various community events to raise money for and donate to charitable organizations: Christmas Tree sales at the town green, food collection for the local food pantry, and pumpkin patch sales at Bauer Farm. St. Margaret’s Youth Program, Madison, CT September 2020-March 2022
● Worked at the Loaves and Fishes soup kitchen to organize food and clothing bags to distribute to recipients.
● Gardened at the Our Lady of Mercy school to clean the community and limit exposure to COVID-19 by the normal workers predisposed to the virus.