Graduate Research Assistant - Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wayne State University - Detroit, MI
(2020-08 - 2026-05)
- Contributed to analytical method development for RNA oxidative stability and degradation studies using radiolabeling.
- Independently restored, reinstalled, and qualified a non-operational ABI DNA/RNA Synthesizer, establishing the laboratory's first RNA oligonucleotide synthesis capability and developing RNA-specific synthesis protocols.
- Synthesized RNA/DNA oligonucleotides using solid-phase techniques to provide access to high-purity modified sequences.
- Maintained an RNase-free workspace by adapting unwanted lab equipment and communal consumables to overcome budgetary limitations of specialized resources.
- Managed departmental LC-MS instrumentation and implemented maintenance protocols to ensure reliable analytical performance across small molecules, peptides, and oligonucleotide groups.
- Achieved reproducible, high-purity characterization of unprotected oligomers (19-mer) using reverse-phase LC-MS.
- Carried out computational analysis of modified oligonucleotides, reducing experimental costs with biomolecular simulation.
- Mentored graduate researchers in analytical techniques, laboratory safety, and data analysis.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to optimize nucleic acid synthesis workflows and instrumentation
Graduate Research Assistant - Department of Chemistry, University of Toledo - Toledo, OH
(2019-01 - 2020-05)
- Developed modified RNA monomers for automated oligonucleotide synthesis.
- Improved reagent stability and coupling efficiency through synthesis process optimization.
- Supported interdisciplinary research linking synthetic chemistry with molecular biology.
- Executed the disassembly, packaging, and moving of laboratory equipment, glassware, and consumables, facilitating a lab relocation under COVID-19 precautions.
Clinical Laboratory Technologist - Asamawa Children Hospital - Samawah, Iraq
(2007-01 - 2008-05)
- Performed biochemical and hematological diagnostic analyses.
- Maintained calibration and quality control of clinical laboratory instruments
- Collaborated with medical staff to ensure accurate diagnostic results.
- Instructed undergraduate chemistry laboratories, trained students in safety, experimental design, and analytical techniques.
- Assisted with course coordination, laboratory preparation, and grading.
Graduate Teaching Assistant - General, Organic, and Biochemistry Lecture & Lab - Department of Chemistry, Wayne State University - Detroit, MI
(2023-01 - 2023-05)
- Provided supplementary instruction aligned with lecture material.
- Trained students in safety, experimental design, and analytical techniques.
- Maintained strict student safety compliance. Maintained solutions, reagents, and supplies.
- Assisted with course coordination, laboratory preparation, and grading.
Graduate Teaching Assistant - General, Organic, and Biochemistry Lecture - Department of Medicinal Chemistry, The University of Toledo - Toledo, OH
(2019-01 - 2020-05)
- Supervised undergraduate chemistry laboratory sessions and ensured compliance with laboratory safety procedures.
- Proctored examinations and maintained academic integrity during testing.
- Assisted with grading laboratory reports, quizzes, examinations, and course assignments.
