Jenkins Darbney
Baltimore
Summary
A motivated emerging virologist with hands‑on BSL‑2 experience investigating coronavirus replication, viral genetics, and molecular mechanisms of host–pathogen interaction. Skilled in RT‑PCR, plaque assays, viral titration, and viral construct engineering, with additional strengths in sequencing analysis and computational tools. Brings a proven record of leadership, mentorship, and interdisciplinary training through competitive fellowships and industry exposure. Committed to advancing infectious disease research through rigorous experimentation, scientific communication, and collaborative problem‑solving.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Biorepository Technician I
Precision Medical Group
Frederick, MD
06.2025 - Current
- Manage biological sample inventory, freezer monitoring, QA-regulated materials, and sample retrieval/shipping.
- Receive, log, quarantine, and verify biological materials.
- Assisted in the preparation of samples for analysis and distribution to research teams.
- Aliquot samples as per request from the research team.
Undergraduate Researcher
Virology Laboratory
Sewanee, TN
08.2022 - 08.2025
- Conducted research in a BSL-2 virology lab studying MHV-A59 coronavirus replication.
- Engineered viral constructs by inserting a HiBiT luminescent tag to quantify replication dynamics.
- Investigated a 3' UTR leucine-to-isoleucine mutation that prevented viral recovery, indicating disruption of essential stem-loop S3/S4 RNA structures.
- Performed RT-PCR, plaque assays, viral titration, sequencing, and replication troubleshooting.
- Conducted literature-driven structural analysis of coronavirus 3' UTR regulatory elements.
- Mentored a new research student and contributed to experimental planning.
Research Intern
Sewanee Undergraduate Research Fellowship
Sewanee, TN
06.2024 - 07.2024
- Performed cell culture, RNA purification, cDNA synthesis, and gel electrophoresis.
- Generated and purified amplicons for viral sequencing; validated viral constructs.
- Recovered and sequenced virus stocks; analyzed data using SnapGene.
- Conducted literature reviews to support ongoing research projects.
- Participated in weekly team discussions to refine project objectives and timelines.
Education
B.S. - Biology (Molecular Track), Computer Science, Music
The University of the South
Sewanee, TN05-2025
Skills
- Wet Lab: Cell culture, RT-PCR, plaque assays, viral titration, RNA purification, cDNA synthesis, gel electrophoresis, qPCR, flow cytometry, fluorescence microscopy
- Molecular: Viral construct assembly, mutagenesis, sequencing, SnapGene
- Computational: Python, SQL, RStudio, HTML, PHP
- Soft Skills: Leadership, mentorship, scientific communication
- Music: Piano, drums, guitar
INTERNSHIPS
- Jeff Ubben Posse Fellowship — Pfizer ES&I/CTI
- New York, NY | Summer 2023
- Shadowed scientists; learned qPCR, flow cytometry, fluorescence microscopy.
- Participated in cell culture work and reviewed research papers.
- Interviewed CEO Albert Bourla; built internal tracking systems for ES&I and CTI.
- Fresh Air Fund — Nursing Assistant
- Fishkill, NY | Summer 2022
- Assisted nurses with patient care; performed 5–10 COVID-19 tests daily.
- Designed internship playbook used by 1,000+ students.
- Analyzed datasets; built presentations and LinkedIn talent reports.
LEADERSHIP & SERVICE
- Honor Council — Class Representative | 2022–Present
- Faculty Search Committee — Lead | 2022–2023
- Sewanee Multicultural Health Society — Event Planner | 2021–2022
- Track & Field — Senior Member | 2022–2025
HONORS & AWARDS
Posse Foundation Full Tuition Leadership Scholarship (National),
Yeatman Award — Leadership & Inspiration in Biology Research,
Dean’s List (2021–2025),
Jeff Ubben Posse Fellowship (National),
SAA All-Honors Men’s Track & Field,
Order of the Gown
Timeline
Biorepository Technician I
Precision Medical Group
06.2025 - Current
Research Intern
Sewanee Undergraduate Research Fellowship
06.2024 - 07.2024
Undergraduate Researcher
Virology Laboratory
08.2022 - 08.2025
B.S. - Biology (Molecular Track), Computer Science, Music
The University of the South