Grace An

• Conducted research on squalene content in broccoli-amaranth mixtures enriched with Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium probiotic strains.
• Prepared plant-based samples through weighing, homogenization, extraction, filtration, dilution, and controlled laboratory procedures.
• Used UV-Vis spectrophotometry to measure absorbance patterns across ultraviolet wavelengths and evaluate concentration-dependent changes.
• Analyzed serial dilution data, compared absorbance values, and interpreted results related to antioxidant compound detection.
• Collaborated with student researchers and faculty mentors to prepare a scientific research poster, including abstract, methods, results, discussion, and figure presentation.

• Shadowing with Dr. Chang - observing his team and the patients.
• Successfully assisted the dentist by performing four-handed dentistry and other chair-side duties.
• Worked closely with patients before, during, and after dental procedures.
• Dr. Chang graduated from the University of California, Irvine, studying Economics and Biology. He received his Doctor of Dental Surgery at New York University College of Dentistry. Following graduation, he completed his Dental and Oral Medicine residency at New York Presbyterian Hospital in Queens to strengthen his training in oral surgery, root canal therapy, pediatric dentistry, sedation dentistry, and surgical and implant dentistry.
• website: https://www.bluebrushdental.com/

• Led opening/closing shifts by assigning tasks to coworkers, verifying completion of cleaning duties, and organizing store layout for optimal customer experience.
• Managed fast-paced responsibilities including taking orders, restocking supplies, cleaning work areas, and supporting coworkers to maintain service flow during peak hours.
• Communicated with customers in a professional manner while handling orders, questions, and concerns.
• Prepared drinks and handled food-service tasks while following cleanliness, safety, and quality standards.
• Worked seasonally during college breaks after senior year, fostering a strong professional relationship with the owner and showcasing commitment to team continuity.

"The Science of Teeth Whitening: A comparison of peroxide and peroxide-free methods"

• Authored a 8-page research-based review article on teeth whitening methods, comparing peroxide and peroxide-free products while evaluating effectiveness, safety, side effects, and long-term oral health considerations
• Reviewed by the International STEM Research Journal (website: https://sites.google.com/view/isrjournal)
• Mentor: Heather Killeen, Ph.D., am.HeatherKilleen@gmail.com

"Determining the Presence of Rhizobia in Legume Seeds"

• Completed a four-week online microbiology research course through Rising Researchers at UMass Amherst, focusing on 'Determining the Presence of Rhizobia in Legume Seeds.'
• Conducted experiments to detect Rhizobia’s role in nitrogen fixation and plant growth. My findings were published, contributing to sustainable agriculture research.