Honor Society® member
Nikodemos Hailu
- Master in Biotechnology
- Class of 2024
- Waldorf, MD
Member since November 2025
About
Motivated scientist with a B.S. in Cellular Biology and Molecular Genetics from the University of Maryland and pursuing an M.S. in Biotechnology at Johns Hopkins University. Experienced in molecular and cellular research, including PCR, ELISA, gel electrophoresis, bacterial culture, and DNA sequencing.
Hands-on background in both academic research and pharmacy operations as a Certified Pharmacy Technician. Passionate about biotechnology innovation, molecular diagnostics, and advancing scientific solutions that improve human health.
Education
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Johns Hopkins
Biotechnology
2026 – Present
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University of Maryland, College Park
Cellular Biology and Molecular Genetics
2020 – 2024
Honors and awards
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National Academy of Future Scientists and Technologists Award
For high achieving students who want to pursue in science
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Rotary Club Award
Attended rotary club and received a scholarship for college
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College Success Scholars
Attended in College. A program aimed at helping underrepresented or first-generation college students achieve success in higher education.
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National Society of Collegiate Scholars
Supports college students who have demonstrated strong academic achievement and leadership potential.
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Athlete Award
Was involved in multiple sport teams; track and field, tennis, basketball, swimming, soccer
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Art Fair Recognition Award
Was a part of an art fair in the Reginald F. Lewis Museum
Goals and interests
- Career goal
Pharmaceutical/biotech Companies; Industry
- Graduate school interests
Johns Hopkins Graduate School
- Outside the classroom
* Volunteering at local food banks
* Sketching and digital art
* Reading science journals
* Working out and staying active
* Listening to music
* Church
* Medication
* Music (Guitar and Singing)
Experience
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CVS Pharmacy Pharmacy Technician
Processed and dispensed medications; entered prescriptions and managed pharmacy inventory. Conducted cycle counts and ensured compliance with medication return policies. Provided customer service and followed HIPAA regulations.
Dec 2024 – Jun 2025
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Molecular Genetics Laboratory Researcher
Analyzed phenotypes in C. elegans and Arabidopsis progeny Performed DNA extraction, PCR, and gel electrophoresis Sequenced and analyzed CYP2D6 gene variants from self-collected saliva samples for pharmacogenetics.
Jul 2023 – Nov 2023
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iGEM (International Genetically Engineered Machine) Researcher
Participated in the CerviCare project: a biomarker-based screening system for cervical cancer biology wet labs. Contributed to literature
Jul 2023 – Apr 2024
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Host Bacterial Interactions Laboratory Research Intern
Investigated the effects of purine biosynthesis gene knockouts on E. coli growth and T4r bacteriophage replication Gained experience with bacterial culture, overnight cultures, plaque assays, cell lysis, and antibiotic selection (Kanamycin). Used Luria Broth and standard molecular microbiology techniques
Apr 2023 – Jul 2023
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Cell Biology & Physiology Laboratory Researcher
Conducted experiments on Daphnia to assess the effects of caffeine, nicotine, lidocaine, and acetylcholine on heart rate Used ELISA to determine BSA protein concentrations in unknown samples Analyzed live specimens including Elodea and human/mammalian blood smears under a microscope.
Dec 2021 – Apr 2022
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MaryPIRG Public Health Advocate
Advocated for climate action and public health initiatives. Promoted civic engagement and environmental awareness through volunteer work and outreach events
Dec 2021 – Apr 2023
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GIG Pharmacy Pharmacy Technician
Distributed drug information and gained familiarity with HIPAA and pharmacy regulations. Supported prescription preparation and patient interactions
Apr 2021 – Jul 2021
Volunteering
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Food Bank/Pantry
UMD College Park
Aug 2022 – Feb 2024
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Food Pantry/Bank
Suitland High School
Aug 2016 – May 2020
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Food Bank/Pantry
Second Baptist Church
Aug 2016 – May 2020
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Food Bank/Pantry
Ethiopian Church Branch Avenue
Aug 2016 – Present
Languages
- English (US) Advanced
Additional information
Organizations
