Kevis Mecaj
Toronto
Summary
First-year McMaster University student with a strong foundation in STEM, youth mentorship, science communication, event facilitation and lab work. Experienced in a lab setting, delivering engaging lessons, supporting public events, and fostering inclusive environments through clear communication and teamwork. Proven ability to adapt to diverse audiences and maintain professionalism in dynamic settings.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Course-Based Undergraduate Research Experience
McMaster University
09.2025 - 12.2025
- Assisted in conducting molecular genetics experiments as part of an undergraduate laboratory experience.
- Applied core biotechnology techniques to investigate human genomic variation in the AMY1 gene for salivary amylase.
- Strengthened existing skills in micropipetting, light microscopy and cell analysis
- Performed a PCR-based copy number variation (CNV) assay to analyze the AMY1 gene.
- Conducted DNA extraction, PCR amplification, and agarose gel electrophoresis following standardized laboratory protocols.
- Interpreted results by comparing gel band intensities to estimate gene dosage via DNA Densitometry analysis.
- Documented procedures, maintained accurate lab notes, and contributed to data analysis.
- Conducted online research to aid in contextualizing results as part of a formal lab report.
- Followed lab safety procedures and maintained sterile technique throughout experiment.
Science Outreach Member and Mentee
University Of Toronto, St. George Campus
10.2023 - 06.2024
- Participated in a competitive mentorship program led by U of T medical and graduate students, focused on science communication and public outreach
- Collaborated with a small team to develop and deliver a science lesson to elementary students, translating complex concepts into engaging, age-appropriate formats
- Strengthened public speaking and presentation skills through interactive group teaching and feedback from mentors
Fundraising Aide
Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre
04.2024 - 06.2024
- Supported logistics for the annual 5km OCD awareness walk, assisting over 200 attendees with registration, route guidance, and participant support
- Helped raise over $68,000 for mental health services through active event support and community engagement
- Promoted awareness and answered participant questions, providing friendly, informative interactions on-site
- Demonstrated adaptability and professionalism during a large, fast-paced public event
Peer Mentor
Self-employeed
06.2023 - 08.2025
- Delivered one-on-one tutoring sessions to high school students in Math, Chemistry, and Biology
- Adapted explanations to different learning styles and academic needs, improving student confidence and academic outcomes
- Built rapport through clear, friendly communication and active listening, working closely with students to identify learning obstacles and develop personalized strategies for improvement
- Demonstrated responsibility and time management by organizing sessions independently and meeting with multiple students each week
Assistant Mentor
Royal Ontario Museum ROM
11.2023 - 02.2024
- Partook in an unpaid position at ROMKids Saturday Club, assisting museum staff with interactive programming for children aged 4-14
- Helped facilitate hands-on learning stations, guided group tours, and supported children during gallery visits and break times
- Developed strong interpersonal skills by interacting with families and young learners in an educational setting
- Ensured safety and engagement in a dynamic environment by proactively managing group dynamics and helping resolve minor conflicts between students when needed
- Supported a positive learning environment by listening to children's concerns and helping mediate peer disagreements with patience and care
Education
Bachelor of Science - Life Sciences
Mcmaster University
Hamilton, Ontario04-2029
High School Diploma -
Forest Hill Collegiate Institute
Toronto, ON06-2025
Skills
- Effectiveness in STEM
- Effective Communication
- Team Collaboration
- Lab Experience (Pipetting, PCR, Microscopy, Gel Electrophoresis)
- Research Experience
- Leadership Experience
- Event Support & Planning
- Customer Service
- Peer Engagement
- Mentorship
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
Albanian
Native or Bilingual
French
Limited Working
Certification
- WHMIS - McMaster University (WHMIS 1A00)
- BIOSAFE - McMaster University (BIOSAFE 1BS0)
Timeline
Course-Based Undergraduate Research Experience
McMaster University
09.2025 - 12.2025
Fundraising Aide
Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre
04.2024 - 06.2024
Assistant Mentor
Royal Ontario Museum ROM
11.2023 - 02.2024
Science Outreach Member and Mentee
University Of Toronto, St. George Campus
10.2023 - 06.2024
Peer Mentor
Self-employeed
06.2023 - 08.2025
Bachelor of Science - Life Sciences
Mcmaster University
High School Diploma -
Forest Hill Collegiate Institute
Awards
- Certificate of Merit for achieving the highest mark school-wide in Chemistry