Maryam (Mary) Bellakbira
She/Her
Education:
Cornell University/ 3.81 GPA
Unity Reed High School/ 4.0 GPA
Washington Liberty High School/ 4.65 MTH/SCI GPA
Email:
Resume
Social Media
@maryambellakbira
My Research Story
Innovation Matters.
Representation Matters.
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You Matter.
My journey in scientific research began remarkably early, at age 14, when I was selected from thousands of applicants to conduct clinical research at the Center for Proteomics and Molecular Medicine in Northern Virginia. This early experience ignited my passion for research, innovation, and computational applications, setting me on a path to create novel products and systems that could make a meaningful impact.
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In the six years since that pivotal moment, my dedication to scientific inquiry has led to extraordinary opportunities for collaboration with Harvard Medical School, NASA, Cornell University, American University, The Endocrine Society, United Nations Foundation and many more. I've also had the privilege of serving as an ambassador for numerous companies, allowing me to bridge the gap between scientific research, innovation and practical applications.
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This journey hasn't been without its challenges, but it has been profoundly shaped by those who believed in my potential and supported my aspirations. To everyone who has contributed to my growth along the way: your guidance and support have been invaluable. I hope my story can inspire others to pursue their passions fearlessly, regardless of their age or circumstances.
Volunteering Experiences
Merck City-Wide Clean-Up and Merck for Mothers Volunteering
Participated in environmental clean-up efforts, contributing to large-scale sustainability initiatives, while supporting Merck for Mothers programs
NSBE (National Society of Black Engineers) Cornell Chapter
Volunteered for speaker panels, assisted in the creation of toy devices for educational purposes, and led donation drives supporting underserved communities
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Haymarket Regional Food Pantry | 100+ Hours | 2020 – Present
Contributed to community welfare through food distribution and logistical support, ensuring families in need received essential supplies
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Summer Teen Hospital Volunteer | Prince William Medical Center, UVA Health | 2020
Assisted medical staff, enhanced patient experience, and provided support in various departments during the summer volunteer program.
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Hanly Food Pantry | 50+ Hours | 2020
Supported food pantry operations, including organizing donations, preparing food packages, and assisting local families.
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Physician Assistant Shadowing | Med Squared | 200+ Hours
Gained hands-on medical exposure by shadowing PAs in various specialties, observing patient care and medical procedures.
Youth Involvement
(Many have asked about the path that led me to my current academic and professional roles. ESPECIALLY for students looking to apply to college and need mentorship - Thus here are some of the extracurricular activities that helped shape this journey. These experiences weren't just activities on a resume—they were foundational stepping stones that opened doors to the remarkable opportunities I now pursue. Through dedication, curiosity, and persistence, these early endeavors evolved into meaningful contributions across scientific research, social advocacy, and technological innovation).
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President and Founder of Medical Student Society: Society for prospective students interested in Applied Sciences and Medicine; Pre-professional guidance, support, advocacy, educational development, and experience fulfillment.
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President of Black Student Union 2021-present; Unity Reed High School and Vice President 2020-2021; Washington Liberty High School
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President of Science National Honor Society 2021 - Present
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Dedicated Member of Student Activity Leadership Council (SALC); Took major part in the name change of Stonewall Jackson to Unity Reed High School 2019 - 2020
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Co-Founder of SeeMe Barbie Doll Campaign for Diversity and Inclusiveness of young children 2021 - Present
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Varsity Lacrosse 2018 - 2022
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Vice President Co-ed Volleyball club 2021- Present Club Volleyball (VVC) and JV Volleyball (URHS) 2018 - 2020
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Ecology Club: Recycling pick up 2021 - 2022
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Key Club 2018 - 2022
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Delegate at Congress of Medical Leaders & Human Rights Commission 2021
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2021 Invited Scholar of the National Youth Leadership Forum in the Field of Medicine 2021 -2022
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Humans rights leadership delegate Human Rights Student Leadership Council; Prince William County; Representing current School 2021-2022
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2020 Embolden Student Leadership Winter Internship Program in Business
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Student Impact’s Summer Community Leadership Program 2019-2020
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IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) Certificate 2018-2020
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Science National Honor Society 2021 -2022
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Math National Honor Society 2020 -2022
Work Experience
June 2025 - August 2025
January 2025 - Present
June 2024 - December 2024
June 2023 - April 2024
June 2024 - August 2024
May 2023 - August 2023
May 2023 - August 2023
May 2022 - August 2022
May 2020 - August 2022
June 2019 - August 2021
June 2020 - Present
September 2018 - August 2019
August 2018 - August 2019
Pfizer Breakthrough Fellow
Harvard Medical School, Dana Farber Cancer Instuture, Reseacrh Fellow
Merck & Co, Research & Development Sourcing & Procurement
United Nations Foundation, Girl Up
NASA Grant Space Research
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American University Research in Genomics, Department of Biology
Kode With Klossy Instructor Assistant in Mobile App Deveolpment
Intern/Shadowed Biopharma operations at top biopharma company
Founded the Junior Chapter of the Women's General Federation, a groundbreaking organization that became the first federation to grant women voting rights back in 1890
At the Center for Proteomics and Molecular Medicine, I contributed to groundbreaking research (starting) between ages 14-15, focusing on the development and validation of a mass spectrometry-based technique called Protein Painting. This innovative method identifies patient antibody-binding epitopes on the SARS-CoV-2 Nucleocapsid Protein, advancing our understanding of protein interactions crucial for vaccine development. The research aimed to develop sophisticated analytical methods that could directly support and enhance vaccine development strategies
Co-Founder of ProjectStopTrafficking established in 2020, I spearheaded a nationally recognized initiative addressing the surge in human trafficking during the COVID-19 pandemic, working in collaboration with the University of Virginia. My advocacy efforts successfully led to the integration of human trafficking awareness into Fairfax County Schools' educational curriculum, creating lasting systemic change. Through dedicated fundraising campaigns, I raised over $14,000 to support trafficking survivors' rehabilitation and recovery programs, directly contributing to their journey of healing and rejuvenation. This comprehensive approach combined education, advocacy, and direct support to combat human trafficking and aid survivors.
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) Research combining elements of endocrinology, genetics, and women's health. Through a comprehensive comparative database study, I analyzed patterns and relationships in PCOS manifestation, contributing to our understanding of this complex endocrine disorder that affects millions of women worldwide. This interdisciplinary approach integrated genetic markers, hormonal profiles, and clinical presentations to provide deeper insights into PCOS diagnosis and treatment strategies
Co-Founder of the SeeMe Barbie Doll Campaign, I spearheaded an initiative dedicated to expanding representation in children's toys by creating diverse and variable Barbie dolls. The campaign focused on developing dolls that reflect a wide spectrum of appearances, abilities, and backgrounds, helping children see themselves represented in their playtime experiences.