Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Languages
Relevant Course Experience
Timeline
Generic

Derek Xu

Toronto,Canada

Summary

Third-year genetics student at Western University, with an interest in researching the effects of cancer on genomes. Possesses knowledge of foundational concepts such as chromosomal karyotyping, pedigrees, cell mosaicism, and genomic assays. Has experience with lab techniques such as pipetting, gel electrophoresis, and restriction digestion. Also possesses fundamental knowledge in Python programming. Keen on collaborating with others, and looks forward to applying the necessary scientific skills to benefit the team.

Overview

2
2
years of professional experience

Work History

Volunteer Research Assistant

Sun Life Gene
Toronto, Canada
05.2024 - Current
  • Dissected lab animals to retrieve bone marrow.
  • Navigated scientific databases such as GeneCard and the Human Protein Atlas to search for information.
  • Imaged cells on agar plates to determine viable colonies.
  • Familiar with the process of retaining cells for future research through refrigeration.
  • Hosted presentations regarding the ADA2 gene and it's mutations.

Clinician Assistant

Waterdrop Medical Centre
Toronto, Canada
06.2023 - 07.2023
  • Helped conduct annual check-ups consisting of blood pressure tests, weight measurements, and urinalysis tests.
  • Assisted with bookkeeping of medications and data for check-ups.
  • Maintained a clean and safe clinic environment.

Education

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) - Honors Specialization in Genetics

Western University
London, Ontario, Canada
04.2026

Ontario Secondary School Diploma -

York Mills Collegiate Institute
Toronto, Ontario

Skills

  • Communication
  • Teamwork
  • Leadership
  • Problem solving
  • Positive mindset
  • Community relations
  • Laboratory experience
  • Data collection
  • Time management
  • Attention to detail
  • Lab safety

Languages

  • Chinese (Mandarin), Advanced
  • English, Fluent
  • French, Conversational

Relevant Course Experience

  • Biostats 2244A: Western University, London, Canada, 07/01/23 - 08/31/23. Learned about different sampling methods, biases, statistical graphs, coding in R studio, experiment variables, and various statistical tests.
  • Biology 2290A: Western University, London, Canada, 09/01/23 - 12/31/23. Mastered the use of common lab equipment, how to write a scientific article, interpret collected data, and the process of an experiment.
  • Biology 3592A: Western University, London, Canada, 09/01/24 - 12/31/24. Discussed a multitude of genomic assays and what they detect for, analyzed pedigrees and karyotypes, explored research ethics, and learned about various genetic conditions as well as how to explain them to patients.
  • Computer Science 1026A: Western University, London, Canada, 09/01/24 - 12/31/24. Gained proficiency in basic Python coding concepts including loops, lists, dictionaries, conditional statements, recursion, functions, and common coding errors.
  • Biology 3596A: Western University, London, Canada, 09/01/24 - 12/31/24. Mastered the making of electrophoresis gel, examined the effects of tester strains in identifying mutations in yeast mating pathways, investigated STR bands in genomic loci, and practiced basic lab techniques such as PCR amplification and cell cloning.

Timeline

Volunteer Research Assistant

Sun Life Gene
05.2024 - Current

Clinician Assistant

Waterdrop Medical Centre
06.2023 - 07.2023

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) - Honors Specialization in Genetics

Western University

Ontario Secondary School Diploma -

York Mills Collegiate Institute
Derek Xu