Susan Stephens is seeking a career in biochemical and scientific research. She has a Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry from Portland State University, where she gained experience in organic chemistry, biology, and other relevant fields. Her qualifications include implementing laboratory procedures, independent and team-based research projects, and strong writing and technical skills. Relevant experience includes quality assurance analysis of nutritional supplements, research on the effects of drugs on human serum albumin, and assistant buying roles.
1. Susan Stephens
1904 NE Couch St. #108 Portland, OR 97232
503-330-8978 ᵒ susannelsonstephens@gmail.com
QUALIFICATIONS:
• Strong commitment to developing a career in the biochemical and scientific research industries.
• Experience in implementing and following laboratory procedures
• 10+ years of team-based experience as well as taking initiative in carrying out projects
independently
• Excellence in Microsoft Office Suite, web-based research, journal article writing
• Detail-oriented, with excellent customer service, interpersonal and time-management skills
EDUCATION:
Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry June 2015
Portland State University, Portland, OR
Coursework includes: Organic Chemistry, Biology, Quantitative and Instrumental Analysis,
Physical Chemistry, Biochemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Physics, Anatomy/Physiology, NMR
Spectroscopy, Recombinant DNA, Microbiology Lab, Immunology, and Bioinformatics.
Associate of Arts Transfer Degree June 2005
Chemeketa Community College, Salem, OR
Coursework includes: Research Writing, Interpersonal Communications, Physical Science,
Business Management, Business Law and Ethics, Economics
RELEVENT PROJECTS
• Researched blood plasma labeling and the thermodynamic effects of Naproxen and Ibuprofen on
the binding capacity of human serum albumin under Dr. Albert Benight
• Research paper: The Effect of Anti-Inflammatory Drugs on the HSA Molecule
• DNA recombination of Sulfolobus in E. coli under Dr. Ken Stedman
• Survey of the primary literature on the infectious strain of the bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae
RELATED EXPERIENCE:
Quality Assurance Analyst, Columbia Nutritional November 2013 – April 2014
• Conducted FTIR testing for purity of raw materials/finished products of nutritional supplements
• Generated reports from data to ensure customers and vendors received timely analysis of product
• Communicated variations from pure product to other lab personnel and management
Student Research Assistant, Benight Lab, Portland State University January – May 2013
• Devised and implemented a research study of the thermodynamic effects of various drugs on
human serum albumin using differential scanning calorimetry
• Maintained complete and accurate records of all experiments conducted
• Inventoried and purchased lab equipment; other duties as assigned.
2. Assistant Buyer, Norm Thompson Outfitters – Hillsboro, OR November 2003 – December 2011
• Worked closely with senior buyers to select travel-friendly products for catalog and website
• Negotiated pricing and terms with vendors; wrote purchase orders and approved invoices
• Helped to develop the layout of product catalogs with the buying team.
• Analyzed periodic sales and generated reports for the management team for presentation.
• Managed sample room; ordered samples of product from vendors for photography and cataloged
sample inventory.
• Trained interns and new hires to perform daily duties and various special projects
COMPUTER/TECHNICAL SKILLS
• Word/Excel/PowerPoint
• ChemDraw software
• GraphPad software
• Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy
• UV-Vis Spectroscopy
• Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy
• Differential Scanning Calorimeter
• Ion-selective Electrode
• Spectrofluorometer
• Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry
• High Performance Liquid Chromatography
COURSEWORK
• Organic chemical and compound synthesis
• Determination of unknown compounds via Nuclear Magnetic Resonance spectroscopy
• Protein isolation and purification of lactate dehydrogenase using SDS-PAGE and UV-Vis
• Spectrophotometric Determination of Iron in Water
• Analysis of e-cigarettes and nicotine in tobacco
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
• Tuality Hospital, Hillsboro, OR, Volunteer Pharmacy Technician (2011) – received and
organized incoming pharmacy inventory, assisted in mixing drugs in the compound room, made
deliveries of supplies and medications to various hospital staff
• Habitat for Humanity of Portland, Volunteer Coordinator (2010) – contacted volunteers and
coordinated work schedules, maintained positive relationships with current and future volunteers
EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
• Member of and contributor to Researchgate.com
• Alzheimer’s Association International Conference, Boston, 2013
• Writer’s Workshop and Conference, New York City, 2011