Anthony Santana
Rancho Cucamonga,CA
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Research Associate II
Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
07.2024 - Current
- Oversee the management and maintenance of mouse colonies, ensuring proper breeding, health monitoring, and experimental readiness involving tissue collection for molecular biology studies that focus on specific mouse lines.
- Tasked with tissue and serum collection via retro-orbital and cardiac puncture methods, BMDMs (Bone Marrow Derived Macrophage) collection for differentiation and functional assays, RNA extraction and cDNA synthesis for gene expression studies.
- Execute a variety of protocols such as immunoprecipitations (I.P.), ELISA, and Western blots to further investigate the effects of the inflammasome complex in secreting pro-inflammatory cytokines, by manipulating specific domain regions (TRIM21, ASC, Caspase, etc.) to explore their roles in immune responses.
- Maintain and culture THP-1 and HEK-293 cell lines for use in experiments, including I.P. assays, transfections and staining techniques for fluorescent microscopy analysis of cellular interactions.
- Acting liaison between the lab, Environmental Health and Safety, and Facilities for resolving laboratory issues, including fungus growth mitigation, -80 freezer replacements, and cabinet validations.
- Partnered with external vendors such as TSS for equipment validation, repair, and maintenance services.
- Conducted monthly self-inspections to ensure compliance with Cedars-Sinai standards, including proper chemical storage and waste management.
- Ensured compliance with standards by implementing a comprehensive chemical labeling system, reducing hazardous material mislabeling incidents as well as adherence PPE standards.
Senior Research Associate
Vulcan Biologics Inc.
03.2022 - 06.2024
- Responsibilities included optimizing cloning techniques to enhance vector expression of anti-inflammatory agents focussing on IL10 and Larazotide, known for their roles in immunomodulation and barrier function.
- Utilized cellular and molecular cloning techniques such as plasmid isolation, gene assembly, KLD, and site directed mutagenesis for phage engineering, lysogen induction,
and transduction of host cells. - Optimized chemical and electrocompetent NEB5a E. Coli bacterial cell harvesting protocols for high yield transformation efficiencies. Confirmed expressions and constructs via Histag-ELISA and NGS for λ-phage archiving,
- Illustrated study designs and mechanisms of engineering strategies by generating visual aids to
depict: murine mice models, controls, experimental design, timelines, approaches, and modes of
infection. - Practiced cGLP, daily laboratory maintenance, and conducted inventory of supplies and reagents.
Clinical Laboratory Assistant II
Curative Inc.
06.2020 - 02.2022
- Processed SARS-CoV2 virus from patient samples via high through-put RNA extraction techniques. Utilized manual multi-channel pipette extraction, TECAN instrument extraction, Integra-VioFlo, and King Fisher automated sample processing preparation for qPCR via CFX-96/384 or Hamilton Liquid Handler.
- Ensuring equipment meets regulatory standards (QA/QP/QC/IP) such as ISO 13485 for medical devices or GLP and SOP techniques for high throughput testing pre/ post-CLIA inspections.
- Collaborated with multiple departments to ensured strict adherence to SOPs including precise sample processing, preparation of solutions and reagents, proper disposable of bio-hazard waste and for training and onboarding new hires to maintain consistency and accuracy across lab operations.
- Maintained compliance with CLIA standards (42 CFR 493.1256) by implementing and documenting quality control protocols for laboratory testing procedures
- Managed Non-Conformance Reports to address deviations and enhance operational procedures.
- Collaborated with Health and Safety inspectors during walk-throughs, providing clarity on machinery and protocol compliance in order to streamline proficiency testing processes (42 CFR 493.901) for high-complexity assays.
- Submitted inspection tickets for machinery maintenance and compliance evaluations.
- Supported onboarding and training for new protocols, emphasizing compliance with CLIA standards and operational efficiency.
NSF Undergraduate Researcher
College of Science, Cal Poly Pomona
02.2018 - 06.2021
- Conducted undergraduate research in neuroimmunology at Cal Poly Pomona's College of Science in the Durrant Lab as an NSF scholar.
- Investigated the role of DEC-205 expressing DCs to limit viral infection, replication, and neuronal
injury via a well-established mouse murine mode by comparing outcomes between DEC-205
expressing wild-type (WT) mice and DEC-205 gene knockout (KO) mice following West Nile Virus (WNV) infection. - Cultured and maintained BHK-21 fibroblast cells.
- Performed West Nile virus Kunjin strain mouse infections, and collected tissue for analysis via cDNA synthesis of extracted RNA, plaque assay/ELISA to quantify viral titers and Flurescent Microscopy, ensuring precise viral quantification and contributing to data on WNV pathogenesis
- Proficiency in handling mice colonies and husbandry including health monitoring, breeding, weening, genotyping, cage organization and euthanization adhering to ethical SOPs.
- Gained hands-on experience in hazardous waste management and biochemical storage under GLP protocols.
Biology Stockroom Assistant
College of Science, Cal Poly Pomona
06.2018 - 03.2020
- Received and processed incoming shipments, verifying accuracy against purchase orders, invoices of packages ordered by College of Science faculty and staff.
- Responsible for the repair and damage reporting for all Cal Poly Pomona College of Science equipment (e.g. microscopes, centrifuges, micropipettes).
- Facilitated decommissioning, removal, and storage of biological machinery, including microscopes, centrifuges, and -80°C freezers.
- Worked closely with EHS and Facilities teams to ensure safe and compliant management of lab spaces.
- Maximized available storage space through effective utilization of shelving units and pallets in the stockroom area.
- Enhanced workplace safety with regular inspections and maintenance of stockroom equipment.
- Complied fully with company policies regarding health, safety, hygiene practices within the stockroom area at all times.
Cellular and Molecular Biology Resource Center Lab Assistant
College of Science, Cal Poly Pomona
11.2017 - 03.2020
- Provided technical support for students and faculty conducting research or lab lectures in proper
laboratory techniques and procedures. - Storage, removal, or repair of any decommissioned or incoming machinery (e.g.
microscopes, centrifuges, micropipettes) as well as recalibrations of pH meters, micropipettes,
and measuring scales. - Proficient in media preparation including various agar plates, agar slants, deeps, and
buffers, in addition to maintaining mycological and bacterial growth for lab lectures. - Supported inspection readiness for OSHA regulatory visits by ensuring documentation and practices aligned with standards, addressing compliance concerns and achieving a 'Zero Violation' status across three consecutive inspections.
Biological Science Academic Success Coach
Chaffey Community College
12.2015 - 12.2019
- Tutored all biology courses and lower-division chemistry courses
- Q&A orientations lecture style for classrooms on resources and services provided by the success center
- Held peer mentoring workshops for students on various topics including study skills, test prep, test-taking anxiety, and note-taking skills
- Enhanced student retention by providing personalized academic coaching and support.
- Helped students develop organizational, time management and study skills.
- Advised students on educational, career and social opportunities.
- Provided resources to support students in achieving career goals.
Bleeks Laboratory Animal Care Technician
Chaffey Community College
03.2016 - 08.2016
- Proficient in handling and caring for mice, including monitoring their health, ensuring appropriate living conditions, and conducting routine checks
- Skilled in performing euthanization of mice through cervical dislocation, adhering to ethical standards and protocols
- Prepared mice for feeding snakes, ensuring proper handling and timely delivery to maintain the health and feeding schedule of snakes
- Preserved wet-jar specimens and bone collection, ensuring proper techniques for long-term anatomical displays
- Ensured proper nutrition for various species by preparing specialized diets and feeding schedules.
- Cleaned and disinfected exam areas, surgical equipment, and kennels to prevent diseases and control odors.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Microbiology
Cal Poly Pomona
Pomona, CA01.2021
Associate of Science - Biology
Chaffey College
Rancho Cucamonga, CA06-2017
Skills
- Microbiological Techniques
- Molecular Biology Techniques
- Genomics
- Animal Care
- Mouse Handling and Infections
- Laboratory Safety and Compliance
- Quality Control / Assurance
- Lab Management
- Problem-Solving Skills
- Project Management
- Time Management
- Peer Mentorship
- Communication
- Leadership
Accomplishments
- 2020, College of Science Microbiology Scholarship, Cal Poly Pomona
- 2019, National Science Foundation Fellowship Award, Cal Poly Pomona
- 2016, ASCC Outstanding Male Student of Color Award, Chaffey Community College
- 2015, Dr. Robert Lubarsky Microbiology Memorial Scholarship, Chaffey Community College
Languages
Spanish
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
Research Associate II
Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
07.2024 - Current
Senior Research Associate
Vulcan Biologics Inc.
03.2022 - 06.2024
Clinical Laboratory Assistant II
Curative Inc.
06.2020 - 02.2022
Biology Stockroom Assistant
College of Science, Cal Poly Pomona
06.2018 - 03.2020
NSF Undergraduate Researcher
College of Science, Cal Poly Pomona
02.2018 - 06.2021
Cellular and Molecular Biology Resource Center Lab Assistant
College of Science, Cal Poly Pomona
11.2017 - 03.2020
Bleeks Laboratory Animal Care Technician
Chaffey Community College
03.2016 - 08.2016
Biological Science Academic Success Coach
Chaffey Community College
12.2015 - 12.2019
Bachelor of Science - Microbiology
Cal Poly Pomona
Associate of Science - Biology
Chaffey College