Brieanna Melancon
Lafayette,LA
Summary
Chemistry major with research experience in computational and physical chemistry. Skilled in DFT-based modeling using Gaussian, high-performance computing on LONI and PuTTY, and analytical techniques including UV–Vis spectroscopy, pH analysis, as well as various other methods. Experienced in collaborative research, knowledge of basic computer programming using Python, and clear scientific communication.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Computational/Physical Chemistry Lab Assistant
University Of Louisiana At Lafayette
Lafayette, LA
07.2025 - Current
- Follow strict laboratory safety, sample integrity, and contamination control protocols.
- Present research updates during group meetings and contribute to collaborative scientific discussions.
- Process, organize, and interpret computational output data to support ongoing atmospheric and marine chemistry research.
- Conduct computational modeling of emerging contaminants in marine environments, with emphasis on early time photochemistry and environmentally relevant reaction pathways.
- Investigate reaction mechanisms and degradation pathways of isoprene oxidation products (specifically isopOO and isopOOH) using density functional theory (DFT).
- Perform geometry optimizations, frequency analyses, and energy calculations using Gaussian to evaluate thermodynamic and kinetic feasibility of proposed pathways.
- Build, visualize, and manipulate molecular structures using Avogadro and MacMolPlt for structural analysis and interpretation.
- Manage and execute remote computational jobs via PuTTY on high-performance computing systems.
- Analytically analyze seawater samples using pH measurements and UV–Vis spectroscopy to characterize chemical properties relevant to marine environmental processes.
- Analyze electronic structure, vibrational modes, and energetic trends to connect molecular-level behavior with environmental processes.
Server/Bartender
Hilton Garden Inn Hotel
Lafayette, LA
12.2023 - Current
- Provide food and beverage service in a fast-paced hotel environment while maintaining professionalism and accuracy
- Prepare and serve drinks following established recipes, safety standards, and cleanliness protocols
- Manage multiple tasks simultaneously with attention to detail and time management
- Communicate effectively with guests and team members to ensure smooth service operations
- Train and mentor new staff on menu knowledge and service standards.
Chemistry Tutor
Independant
Lafayette, LA
08.2022 - Current
- Provide one-on-one and small-group chemistry tutoring to high school and college students.
- Reinforce foundational concepts including stoichiometry, solution chemistry, acid–base equilibria, and spectroscopy basics.
- Guide students through structured problem-solving approaches aligned with laboratory and coursework expectations.
- Communicate technical concepts clearly and professionally in a one-on-one instructional setting.
Direct Support Professional Caregiver
Morning Sun Care Center
Lafayette, LA
07.2023 - 01.2025
- Provided one-on-one support to an individual with Down syndrome, assisting with daily routines and personal care
- Followed detailed care plans with consistency, discretion, and attention to individual needs
- Maintained a safe, structured, and supportive environment while responding calmly to changing situations
- Communicated clearly with family members and caregivers to ensure continuity of care
Education
Bachelor of Science - Chemistry
University of Louisiana At Lafayette
Lafayette, Louisiana, LA12-2026
Skills
- UV-Vis spectroscopy
- IR spectroscopy
- Electrogravimetry
- Gas Chromatography
- Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy
- Ion-Selective Electrode Potentiometry
- Pipetting techniques
- Lab equipment maintenance
- Sample preparation
- Solution preparation
- Gaussian software
- PuTTY
- LONI
- Python programming
- Collaborative research
Timeline
Computational/Physical Chemistry Lab Assistant
University Of Louisiana At Lafayette
07.2025 - Current
Server/Bartender
Hilton Garden Inn Hotel
12.2023 - Current
Direct Support Professional Caregiver
Morning Sun Care Center
07.2023 - 01.2025
Chemistry Tutor
Independant
08.2022 - Current
Bachelor of Science - Chemistry
University of Louisiana At Lafayette