Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology Leadership Award
The Biochemistry & Molecular Biology Leadership Award honors professionals who, through their vision, influence and persistence, create change that positively impacts the nutritional health of Nevadans.
Sharon was recruited as a lab manager in our College in 2017. Over the course of her tenure in this role, her integrity, work ethic, and deep knowledge of molecular biology methods and techniques have been a tremendous asset to the Department. In her research, Sharon made substantial contributions to several active projects. Using her expertise in cloning, she directed the construction of plasmids encoding important enzymes, including glutaryl CoA dehydrogenase, acyl CoA thioestersase and others. In addition to conducting experimental work in the laboratory, Sharon also managed a lab and looked after the Department and other labs as well. Sharon is very familiar with all biosafety guidelines related to laboratory research and does not hesitate to provide gentle reminders and directions when she notices activity that deviates from safe laboratory practice. She made it her business to be aware of various shared equipment items and how they operate. She has an institutional memory that provided Department leadership with insight on numerous occasions. Sharon also took it upon herself to ensure that building safety rules were followed and that retiring faculty laboratories were managed and maintained until a new professor was hired. Aside from her research and laboratory management duties, Sharon trained all new staff members, including graduate students, postdoctoral fellows and undergraduates. For example, she mentored the research activities of a undergraduate student Leanne Perez, on the conduct of research, hypothesis testing, data analysis and good laboratory practices. Leanne recently began Medical School at the University and is poised to do great things, thanks to Sharon’s supervision and caring. Her diligence and attention to detail have improved the working environment and safety of all members of the Department and, in recognition of her contributions, Sharon received our College’s Classified Staff Employee of the Year Award in 2019. In addition, in 2019 Sharon was promoted from staff research associate 3 to staff research associate 4. Now, after 20 years of exceptional service with our University, our College and its Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Sharon has decided to take a well-deserved retirement. As she embarks on this new chapter of her life, she is again recognized for her service and achievements by the University with Classified Staff Honoree status, as well as by our College and its Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology with this Leadership Award.