Caroline Cruse
Germantown
Summary
Skilled in chemical handling, experimental procedures, and mentoring students in analytical techniques and problem solving. Adept at following testing protocols for research development and maintaining organized, functional lab environments.
Overview
2
2
years of professional experience
Work History
Gowin Valley Farms Internship
Gowin Valley Farms
Rocky Face
01.2025 - 05.2025
- Applied aseptic technique to maintain sterile conditions and prevent contamination.
- Followed lab safety protocols, including PPE use, proper biological material handling, and adherence to SOPs.
- Conducted fungi spore inoculation by preparing nutrient-rich mushroom grow bags and introducing spores in sterile environments.
- Monitored incubation conditions (humidity, temperature) to support mycelial development.
- Observed and documented fungal growth stages, assisting in troubleshooting contamination issues.
- Collaborated with team members to optimize yields and improve cultivation methods.
- Participated in harvesting and processing mature mushrooms for commercial or research purposes.
- Followed established testing protocols to ensure accuracy, reliability, and reproducibility of experimental results for a research paper in progress.
General Chemistry Lab Teaching Assistant
University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
Chattanooga
08.2023 - 12.2024
- Demonstrated techniques, such as proper titration methods, precise measurement skills, and handling of reagents, which prevented errors and enhanced understanding.
- Anticipated common areas of confusion, such as significant figures, stoichiometry, or intermolecular forces, and provided targeted explanations.
- Guided students toward logical problem-solving instead of simply providing answers, which strengthened their ability to work through challenges.
- Referred to textbook concepts or real-world applications to reinforce theoretical knowledge and deepen engagement.
- Ensured compliance with safety protocols by regularly reminding students about PPE, chemical handling procedures, and emergency actions, such as how to use an eyewash station or fire extinguisher, to prevent accidents.
- Taught proper waste disposal, including neutralizing acidic or basic waste, and safely handling volatile substances, to maintain an environmentally responsible lab.
- Supervised students closely and corrected unsafe practices, such as pipetting by mouth or improper fume hood usage, reinforcing good habits.
- Organized lab materials by labeling reagent bottles in advance, and verifying that balances were properly calibrated, which streamlined the workflow and prevented unnecessary disruptions.
- Oversaw proper cleanup by wiping down surfaces, ensuring chemicals were returned to their storage areas, and verifying that waste containers were correctly sealed.
Physics Lab Teaching Assistant
University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
Chattanooga
08.2023 - 05.2024
- Assisted with observations by helping students locate celestial objects, such as planets, stars, and nebulae, using telescopes and software tools.
- Provided guidance on long-exposure imaging techniques and tracking methods to ensure accurate celestial measurements.
- Helped students interpret results and troubleshoot technical issues related to software tools and data analysis.
- Maintained the laboratory and observatory by keeping equipment clean, organizing lab materials, and performing minor repairs to ensure functionality.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Biology
University of Tennessee
Chattanooga, TN05-2025
Skills
- Aseptic technique
- Scientific research
- Laboratory safety
- Data analysis
- Collaborative teamwork
- Critical thinking
Accomplishments
- TN Hope Scholarship
- Mocs scholarship
Affiliations
- Highschool Tennis Team (2018-2021)
- Highschool Trap Shooting Team ( 2019- 2021)
Timeline
Gowin Valley Farms Internship
Gowin Valley Farms
01.2025 - 05.2025
General Chemistry Lab Teaching Assistant
University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
08.2023 - 12.2024
Physics Lab Teaching Assistant
University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
08.2023 - 05.2024
Bachelor of Science - Biology
University of Tennessee
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