Carter Snow
Research assistant and undergraduate physicist focused on DNA sequencing, bioinformatics, quantitative analysis, and community engagement.
Professional Summary
Research Assistant with a focus on DNA sequencing and community engagement, leveraging expertise in quantitative analysis and bioinformatics. Skilled in PCR, DNA extraction, and high-performance computing, fostering educational growth through leadership in STEM initiatives. Passionate about inclusivity and committed to advancing ecological understanding through innovative research methodologies.
Employment History
Citizen Science DNA Intern / Research Assistant — Natural History Museum of Utah
Sep 2024 – Present · Salt Lake City, UT
Coordinated and led community outreach DNA extraction and education events for up to 30 students. Worked with Cold Spring Harbor Laboratories to sequence DNA barcodes and publish results to GenBank. Helped lead weekly meetings while teaching a cohort of 4 students in DNA extraction. Assisted in planting a new pollinator garden for the Citizen Science Program at the NHMU.
Undergraduate Researcher / Learning Assistant — University of Utah Science Research Initiative (SRI)
Jan 2024 – Mar 2026 · Salt Lake City, UT
Performed quantitative analysis to uncover ant-plant symbioses. Applied next generation sequencing (NGS) using Oxford Nanopore technology and molecular biology techniques to generate DNA barcodes. Served as a Learning Assistant supporting an incoming cohort of 4 students in laboratory procedures and research practices. Attended and presented a poster at SACNAS NDiSTEM 2025 in Columbus, Ohio.
Education
Bachelor of Science, Physics — University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
Biomedical Emphasis · Aug 2023 – May 2027 · GPA: 3.78 · Dean’s List (4 Semesters)
Relevant Coursework
Calculus I, II, III
Differential Equations and Linear Algebra
Physics for Scientists and Engineers I and II
Physics III, Modern Physics
Physics in Biology
Biology I and II
Cell Biology
Organic Chemistry I and II
Biochemistry I
Awards and Scholarships
- For Utah Scholar
- SRI Scholar
- pre-REU 2025: Isometries, Groups and Crystallographic Restriction award recipient
- SACNAS Travel Award Recipient
- Edge of Space Academy 2026 (University of Iowa)
Skills
Specimen handling, sterile field, PCR, DNA extraction, gel electrophoresis, lab safety, bioinformatic analysis, and high-performance computing.
Certifications
Basic Life Support Certification (BLS)
April 2026 · American Heart Association CPR and AED Program.
HIV Testing and Counseling Training
November 2025 · Utah Department of Health and Human Services HEART Program.
Biomimicry Life’s Principles Certificate
April 2025 · Biomimicry Life’s Sciences online curriculum.
Leadership and Service
Biomimicry Society at the U of U
Co-President · Aug 2023 – Jan 2026
Society for the Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS)
Active national member and undergraduate chapter member at the University of Utah.
UFT Volunteer
Disability Mentor · Aug 2023 – May 2024
Campus Gardens Volunteer
Gardener · Aug 2023 – May 2024
UAF Legacy Health HIV/AIDS Clinic
After-hours clinic volunteer · Aug 2025 – Present
Conferences
SACNAS NDiSTEM 2024
Phoenix, Arizona · Travel award recipient and attendee.
BugFest 2025
Utah Museum of Natural History · Organized and ran a tabling event.
SACNAS NDiSTEM 2025
Columbus, Ohio · Presented a poster on SRI research.
UCUR 2026
Ogden, Utah · Presented a poster on SRI research.
Languages
English (Native).