Published August 11, 2026 | 3 min read | Intern Spotlight
Quick Facts:
University: University of Virginia
Major: Neuroscience
Internship Role: BioTech
Hometown: Danville, Virginia
Internship: Summer 2026
This summer, IALR welcomed Shemariah Jones as one of the CEA Innovation Center’s Biotechnology interns. Throughout her internship, Shemariah gained first-hand experience in applied research while contributing to projects exploring the use of beneficial microorganisms to improve plant health and resilience.
About Shemariah
Shemariah Jones is the 2026 Valedictorian of Chatham High School and an incoming first-year student at the University of Virginia. Shemariah plans to major in Behavioral Neuroscience.
Internship Responsibilities
As a Biotechnology intern, Shemariah worked in the Applied Research department and developed hands-on laboratory and research skills. Throughout the summer, she learned how to prepare laboratory media, operate and autoclave, pour plates, conduct plate assays, inoculate and culture bacteria, and practice sterile laboratory techniques. Shemariah also contributed to research projects involving spinach, bok choy, beneficial endophytes, and corn stubble degradation.
Project Spotlight
One of Shemariah’s projects involved her conducting research exploring how bacterial endophytes could support plant growth and resilience. Her work included assays measure indole-3 acetic acid (IAA) production, phosphate solubilization, and siderophore production– traits that can contribute to root development, nutrient availability, and plant health.
Skills Developed
Throughout the internship, Shemariah developed valuable laboratory, research, and problem-solving skills. Her experience included practicing sterile technique, culturing bacteria, conducting laboratory assays, collecting data, and working with researchers in a professional applied research environment. The internship gave her a foundation in laboratory research that she can carry into her future academic career.
