Beckham Sonnabend
Lake Forest
Summary
Undergraduate Environmental Studies and Biology student with experience in field research, molecular lab work, and scientific collaboration to deliver meaningful results and contribute to long-term conservation goals. Especially interested in plant biology, and the ecological dynamics of plant communities. Practiced in designing research projects and working with other researchers to create sound experimental methods. Seeking to deepen skills necessary to advance a career in conservation science and plant biology.
Overview
1
1
year of professional experience
Work History
Greenhouse Assistant
Lake Forest College
Lake Forest, IL
08.2025 - Current
- Maintain daily greenhouse operations, including watering plants, pest treatment, substrate preparation, power washing, propagation, and minor repairs to greenhouse systems.
- Developed systematic processes to care for each unique plant species, including individualized watering and fertilizing schedules.
Student Research Intern
Chicago Botanic Garden
Glencoe, IL
10.2025 - 11.2025
- Partnered with a current Northwestern University master's candidate on their research project examining the relationship between prey type, microbiome characteristics, and physiological success in Sarracenia purpurea.
- Performed standard genomic DNA extraction techniques to extract and purify DNA from Sarracenia phytotelmata.
- Prepared purified DNA for whole genome metagenomic analysis via Nanopore sequencing.
Research Intern
The Ridges Sanctuary
Baileys Harbor, WI
05.2025 - 08.2025
- Designed and conducted an independent research project analyzing rotifer abundance and diversity across the water column gradient in Sarracenia purpurea leaves.
- Assisted with ongoing research efforts on dwarf lake iris and ram's head lady slipper through plot monitoring, measuring soil and light conditions, and protocol development.
- Supported the Boreal Climate Survivability Project by collecting plant inventory data and working with weather stations to collect long-term climate data.
- Gained proficiency with the TARGAS-1 Photosynthesis System, by collaborating with staff to learn instrument operation and maintenance, aiding the organization's understanding of the equipment.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Environmental Studies And Biology
Lake Forest College
Lake Forest, IL05-2026
Skills
- Statistical Analysis (Excel and RStudio)
- Research Project Design
- Data Collection
- Scientific Collaboration
- Scientific Presentation
- Lab Techniques
Timeline
Student Research Intern
Chicago Botanic Garden
10.2025 - 11.2025
Greenhouse Assistant
Lake Forest College
08.2025 - Current
Research Intern
The Ridges Sanctuary
05.2025 - 08.2025
Bachelor of Science - Environmental Studies And Biology
Lake Forest College