Rashmi Shivni

About Me

Researcher + Science Communicator

I started my career as a science journalist and later put myself through additional coursework to better prepare for graduate studies. As a reporter, I covered stories about particle physics experiments, veterinary medicine, microbiology research, and astrophysical discoveries. My beat at various science desks was predominantly astronomy. As a storyteller, I often reported on hard sciences using narratives about the characters in the lab, on the field, or at the microscope. Despite focusing on physical sciences, I always reported projects outside my comfort zone. In doing so, I developed a new appreciation for the life sciences and taught others about valuable research in biology. This is where I felt my first spark to pursue astrobiology more wholeheartedly.

I pursued a graduate degree in microbiology with astrobiology as a larger focus—a field I grew passionate about through academics and reporting. My broad interests include planetary science, microbiology, and biochemistry. I gained a better understanding of these fields and how to use them to hone in on a specific interest: I want to contribute to research in detecting biosignatures on exoplanets. My interests lie in the origins of life, both on Earth and elsewhere in the universe. I obtained a well-rounded, multidisciplinary wealth of knowledge in my MSc microbiology program to further my specific research goals in pigments that point to the potential for life.

Experience

Nalco Water, An Ecolab Company - Laboratory Technician

October 2024 - Present

Self-Employed - Freelance Science Communicator

September 2016 - Present

Northern Illinois University - Graduate Research Assistant

August 2022 - August 2024

Northern Illinois University - Graduate Teaching Assistant

August 2022 - May 2024

Aurotech, Corp. - Technical Writer/Data Analyst for the U.S. Food & Drug Administration

May 2018 - March 2022

Northern Illinois University - Post-Baccalaureate Research Assistant

June 2020 - April 2021

PBS NewsHour - Science & Social Media News Assistant Fellowship

September 2017 - May 2018

National Audubon Society - Editorial Internship

June 2017 - September 2017

PreScouter, Inc. - Subject Investigation Analyst

December 2016 - May 2017

BioTechniques - Freelance Science Writing Intern

October 2016 - May 2017

Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory - Science Writing Intern

January 2016 - May 2016

American Veterinary Medical Association - News Writing Intern

August 2015 - September 2015

Education

Northern Illinois University

M.S. Microbiology
Graduated Aug 2024

College of DuPage

A.S. Microbiology
Graduated Dec 2021

Columbia College Chicago

B.A. Science Journalism, Minor in Photojournalism
Graduated summa cum laude Dec 2015

College of DuPage

A.A. Mass Communication
Graduated May 2013

Photography

Skills

Research Interests

My M.S. thesis project delved into the biosynthesis of a newly discovered chlorophyll found in marine cyanobacteria called Acaryochloris. These organisms hail from around the world, and several species contain this unique chlorophyll called chlorophyll d.

I found these organisms fascinating because chlorophyll d helps them perform photosynthesis in environments that are not as rich in full-spectrum sunlight. The available light in these environments includes far-red light and infrared, and chlorophyll d is a pigment that can absorb that low-energy light.

Acaryochloris species that tap into far-red light are becoming increasingly valuable for astrobiologists interested in the evolution of photosynthesis on other worlds. Approximately 70% of the Milky Way galaxy is comprised of stars that emit low-energy light, such as the far-red light used by Acaryochloris. With my findings, astrobiologists hope to use these cyanobacteria as model organisms to achieve our collective mission of discovering signs of life beyond our planet.

Awards

AbSciCon Poetry Competition - 2nd Place Winner

Astrobiology Science Conference (AbSciCon) · May 2024

George L. Terwilliger Scholarship

Northern Illinois University · Apr 2024

Rhoten A. Smith Research Assistantship

Northern Illinois University · Jan 2023

Chicago Artists Month

Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs · Nov 2015

Volunteer Experiences

Letters to a Pre-Scientist

• Scientist and K-12 Pen Pal Program

Northern Illinois University

• Monthly Science Communication Workshop

• Biological Sciences New Graduate Student Mentor

• STEMFEST Volunteer

Animal Welfare League of Alexandria

• Cat/Kitten Fostering

DuPage County

• Election Judge

HCR ManorCare

• Assisted Living for the Elderly

Personal Interests

Reading
Gardening
Birding
Hiking
Stargazing
Fostering Animals
Cozy Video Games
Movie Marathons