Insect Systematics and Biodiversity

Alexandra Shibata

E-mail: shibataa [at] hawaii [dot] edu

Education

2003-2006 University of Hawai'i at Manoa - Honolulu, HI

Master of Science in Microbiology
MS Thesis titled: “Impact of Tropical Plants on Microbial Activity and Diversity in Soil Contaminated with Petroleum Hydrocarbons”

1993-1998 University of Panama - Republic of Panama

B.S. in Biology with specialization in Microbiology and Parasitology.
Coursework include classes in Calculus, Physics, Organic Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biostatistics; and several courses in Microbiology.
Undergraduate Thesis titled: “Isolation and Characterization of Actinomycetes from Adiantum sp. in the Barro Colorado Island” (A+)

1993-1994 Nova Southeastern University - Republic of Panama

English as a Second Language Course (Outstanding Completion)

Computer Skills

Completed computer course obtaining the title of Systems Technician. Experience using both PC and Macintosh computers with various applications.

Personal Skills/Interests

Native Spanish speaker.
Participated as expositor in several environmental conservation and microbiology seminars.
Black belt in Hapkido (Martial Arts).
Certified scuba diver.

Present: Junior Researcher - University of Hawai'i at Manoa - Honolulu, HI

Manage a molecular systematics research project in Erythrina Gall Wasps
Supervise students in other projects
Maintain laboratory aseptic conditions and to University standards.

2005-2006: Student Assistant - University of Hawai'i at Manoa - Honolulu, HI

Manage a molecular systematics research in the evolution of peripheral populations of endemic moths from central California.

2003-2005: Graduate Teaching Assistant - University of Hawai'i at Manoa - Honolulu, HI

Microbiology Lab teacher for undergraduate students.
Prepared cultures and materials necessary for class experiments.
Lectured students in basic microbiology concepts and evaluated students in their performance.

2002-2004: Histotechnician - Straub Clinic & Hospital - Honolulu, HI

Prepared on-site slides for the examination of skin cancer cells during MOHS procedure.
Processed tissue specimens collected from the OR for microscopy.
Prepared reagents and stains necessary for tissue processing.
In charge of maintaining all equipment (cryostat, microscope, cameras, etc.) and perform troubleshooting and minor repairs.
Maintained laboratory settings to OSHA and CLIA standards and leaded the dermatology clinic through the inspections.
Organized filing system of blocks and slides for the new department's pathologist.
Photographed patient's procedures when necessary and trained nurses in the proper use of the digital camera.
Regularly updated the database of MOHS patients and of the photographs for the dermatology clinic.

Dec. 2001-Feb. 2002: Aquaculturist - Moana Technologies, LLC. - Aiea, HI

Assisted in the culture of marine shrimp in a biosecure commercial facility.
Maintained different microalgae cultures.

1999–2000: Research Technician - The Oceanic Institute - Waimanalo, HI

Maintained the hatchery and maturation of marine shrimp in a biosecure research facility.
Developed pure cultures of different microalgae.
Responsible of the inventory and purchasing of supplies.
Prepared shrimp tissue for further histology and PCR processes.
Conducted several side experiments to develop new shrimp larval feeds with the help of other staff members.

1997-1998: Internship - Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute - Rep. of Panama

Worked within a research group in a bioprospecting project, isolating bacteria and fungi from the environment.