Kathryn Harris
B.S. Biochemistry, Minor in French and Francophone Studies
Education
2019-2023
B.S. in Biochemistry
University of Florida
Studied biological processes from a chemistry perspective. Coursework included lectures and wet labs to balance both theoretical understanding and practical knowledge. GPA of 3.99/4.00.
President's Honor Roll: Fall 2019, Spring 2020, Fall 2020, and Fall 2021.
Dean's List: Fall 2019, Spring 2020, Fall 2020, Spring 2021, Spring 2022, Fall 2022.
2019-2023
Minor in French and Francophone Studies
Completed coursework in the French language concerning grammar, stylistics, literature, and culture. See coursework for more details.
Summer 2022
UF in Paris
Study Abroad Program
Four-week UF-sponsored study abroad program in Paris, France. I stayed with a host family who spoke only French. Classes were taught entirely in French and focused on French sociolinguistics and French art history. Topics included navigating Parisian markets, French advertising, Parisian architecture, and art movements. See study abroad for more details.
Work Experience
Sept. 2022 - Present
Lab Technician, Zolotukhin Lab
UF College of Medicine
Perform bacterial and human cell culture, PCR, plasmid purification, and virus purification to produce and isolate adeno-associated virus (AAV) capsids with tropism for particular human cell types. Responsible for lab upkeep tasks including maintenance of clean glassware, preparation of standard solutions, and biohazardous waste disposal. Lead Environmental Health & Safety compliance. Manage lab waste flow and ensure that chemicals are stored and labelled properly.
Mar. 2021 - Dec. 2021
Research Assistant, Bloom Lab
UF College of Medicine
As a volunteer research assistant, revised and performed spectrofluorometer experiments to determine proximity of DNA helicases to single-stranded binding protein (SSB) for eventual applications in antibiotic development. Second author on conference abstract “Escherichia coli single-stranded DNA binding protein inhibits the helicase activity of the XPD/Rad-3 like helicase, DinG, on duplexed DNA substrates,” presented at a Gordon Research Conference, summer 2022.
Sept. 2020 - Sept. 2022
Print Lab Student Assistant
UF Student Government
Troubleshooted common technical issues and provided customer service to thousands of students utilizing printers.
Involvement and Service
Spring 2022 - Present
Alpha Phi Omega
Service Fraternity
Organized and led multiple chapter-wide workshops on leadership and resume building as leadership development chair. Performed over 100 volunteer hours to support the greater Gainesville community with organizations including Days for Girls and Giving Garden.
Fall 2019 - Present
Theatre Strike Force
Performed in long form and short form-style improv comedy teams in monthly performances for the University of Florida and greater Gainesville community. Directed teams of six to twelve improv performers in weekly rehearsals.
Fall 2022
Analytical Chemistry Lab Teaching Assistant
Directed twenty students in conducting basic wet laboratory analyses and writing laboratory reports.
Summer 2021
Conversation Partner
UF English Language Institute
Met for an hour each week with an English language learner to provide conversation practice. Spoke on various topics, explaining slang and common idioms.
Fall 2020
Matchlighters Student Ambassador
Mentored a low-income student in crafting their college admissions essays and scholarship applications.