Name:
Julia Bittencourt
Organization:
University of Florida
Position Title:
Undergraduate Researcher
> About:
Julia is a senior at the University of Florida (UF). She earned the Biotechnology Aptitude and Competency Exam (BACE) Credential through the Biotechnology Academy at Spanish River High School. Julia has been working in UF’s developmental Biology lab since her freshman year of college.
> BACE & Career Path:
Earning the BACE credential gave Julia an advantage in pursuing undergraduate research opportunities by providing a strong foundation in laboratory techniques and their applications. It also introduced her to the biotechnology field, which expanded her awareness of potential career paths. Through BACE, Julia discovered opportunities she had not previously considered like conducting research as a freshman undergraduate student.
> Job Description:
Julia is currently developing a developmental atlas using nanoCT data. Her work involves collecting and contrast-staining specimens, performing CT scans, and virtually segmenting organs. Most of her time is spent conducting virtual analysis of these segmented specimens. She will soon begin analyzing single-cell RNA sequencing data for an another project she is working on.
> Best Thing About the Job:
Julia says she most enjoys working with cutting-edge techniques that generate meaningful scientific insights. She also values feeling like an integral member of her team, even as an undergraduate.