Name:
Madison Barshick
Organization:
Berry College
Position Title:
Student Research Assistant
> About:
Madison earned her Biotechnology Aptitude and Competency Exam (BACE) credential in high school, which is when she discovered her passion for research. She is now a rising senior at Berry College where she is dual majoring in Animal Science and Biochemistry. After earning her Bachelor’s degree, Madison plans to apply for PhD positions to continue her education and research.
> BACE & Career Path:
Earning the BACE credential has made Madison a stronger candidate for academic and professional opportunities by providing her with valuable hands-on experience beyond that of many of her peers. She has received multiple comments from potential employers and schools about her BACE credential when presenting her resume and applying for programs.
> Job Description:
Madison’s job duties include basic laboratory management, project planning, and performing laboratory techniques such as PCR, gel electrophoresis, and DNA/RNA extractions. As the sole researcher on her project, she oversees every stage of the process, from developing the research plan to executing the experiments. She also assists her professor with projects by performing DNA extraction and PCR. Madison also helps other students in the lab learn techniques and develop their own projects to apply for grants.
> Best Thing About The Job:
Madison says her favorite part of her work is the opportunity to research a topic she is passionate about while working under the guidance of a mentor who believes in her ideas and shares a strong passion for advancing the field.