Natalie Carreon

Recent Microbiology and Biochemistry graduate from the University of Idaho with extensive research experience in molecular techniques and fungal ecology. My research has focused on ectomycorrhizal fungal communities and truffle production, where I've developed skills in DNA sequencing, bioinformatic analysis, and custom R programming for data processing. As a McNair Scholar and research assistant, I've contributed to two projects studying fungal communities in southern Idaho, presenting findings at national conferences. Experienced in both laboratory management and science education through roles as a TA for a Lab Microbiology course and SSS-TRIO tutor. Proficient in molecular biology techniques, including PCR, gel electrophoresis, and DNA/RNA analysis, with strong skills in data analysis using R-Studio and various bioinformatics tools. Bilingual in English and Spanish with a demonstrated ability to communicate complex scientific concepts effectively

Research Experience:

• Research Assistant in the Mycorrhizal Lab at University of Idaho (Aug-Dec 2024), focusing on truffle species primer design and developing automated data analysis pipelines
• McNair Undergraduate Researcher (May-Dec 2024), conducting extensive soil sample analysis and DNA sequencing
• Research Assistant in Natural Resources (Aug-Dec 2023), working on ectomycorrhizal fungal communities and manuscript preparation
• Plant Pathology Lab Assistant (Aug 2022 -May 2023), performing DNA/RNA analysis and solution preparation
• SARE GEM3 Research Experience (May - August 2023), studying ECM competitors' effects on truffle production

Teaching/Academic Support:

• SSS-TRIO Tutor (Jan-May 2024), providing one-on-one tutoring in microbiology, organic chemistry, and biology
• Microbiology TA Lab Assistant (Aug-Dec 2023), preparing lectures, managing lab setup, and teaching laboratory techniques

Achievements:

• Presented research at multiple conferences including NATGA Congress and UMBC McNair Research Conference
• Secured multiple research grants and scholarships totaling over $29,800
• Successfully processed and analyzed 84 soil samples for fungal ITS sequencing
• Developed and implemented custom R scripts for data analysis
• operated sophisticated laboratory equipment including Nanodrop spectrophotometer

Bachelor of Science, Microbiology and Biochemistry completed fall 2024 at the University of Idaho, Moscow, Idaho