HIGHLIGHTS OF EXPERTISE

• My recent project history includes my undergraduate thesis in cell cycle mutations and Master’s thesis in DNA-based radiation dosimetry.
• I have had the opportunity to conduct my Master’s thesis as part of a multidisciplinary team, requiring me to be able to coordinate and communicate goals and progress to a diverse group.
• My thesis work has allowed me to gain experience in experimental design, working with Health Canada, Defence Research and Development Canada (DRDC-Ottawa), and the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN).
• Research article published in February 2011 issue of Radiation Protection Dosimetry (Oxford Journals).

Master of Applied Science, Nuclear Engineering
Field: Radiation Dosimetry
Royal Military College of Canada, Ontario
November 2010

Bachelor of Science, Genetics Specialization
Minor: Philosophy
McMaster University, Ontario
April 2007

Research Assistant
Royal Military College of Canada, Canadian Smart Materials and Structures Group
National Organizational Committee CANSMART/CINDE Workshop 2011
February 2011 - Present (part-time)

Storefront Server
Tim Hortons, Kingston, Ontario
Quarterly Employee (4th Quarter, 2011)
March 2011 - Present (part-time)

Research Assistant
Royal Military College of Canada, DNA Dosimeter Project
February 2008 - August 2008

Technical Skills

• Experienced with dosimetry devices including thermoluminescent detectors, optically stimulated luminescent detectors, bubble detectors
• Trained in radiation safety, as well as laboratory and occupational safety
• Experienced in experimental design and execution, as well as data collection
• Adept at identifying and defining problems, statistical analysis, information interpretation
• Strong computer skills including: MS Office, web and graphics, basic programming

Communication Skills

• Able to work independently, contribute to a team or instruct others
• Able to condense and convey complex information
• Sensitive to the specific needs and directives of colleagues and supervisors
• Skilled at organizing ideas and information, maintaining progress records, writing detailed and structured reports

Wood T, Lewis BJ, McDermott K, Bennett LG, Avarmaa K, Corcoran EC, Wilkinson D, Jones A, Jones T, Kennedy E, Prud'homme-Lalonde L, Boudreau D, Gravel JF, Drolet C, Kerr A, Schreiner LJ, Pierre JR, Blagoeva R, Veres T. Use of a Dual-Labelled Oligonucleotide as a DNA Dosemeter for Radiological Exposure Detection. Radiat Prot Dosimetry. Feb 2011

Avarmaa K, Early Development and Characterization of a DNA-Based Radiation Dosimeter MASc Thesis. Nov 2010

Avarmaa K, IR29: Characterization of an Unknown Cell Cycle Gene BSc Thesis. Apr 2007