Daun Everforest
San Marcos,CA
Summary
Accomplished molecular and cell biology scientist with a strong background in assay development and laboratory operations. Proven track record in leading process improvements, optimizing workflows, and delivering scientific training, resulting in enhanced product performance and compliance in regulated environments.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
Work History
Instructor
University of California, San Diego
San Diego, USA
01.2023 - Current
- Taught Molecular Cell Biology emphasizing cell signaling, gene regulation, molecular genetics, and modern biotechnology applications to enhance student understanding.
- Developed laboratory and course materials that integrated molecular biology, assay design, and translational biotechnology concepts to improve student engagement and learning outcomes.
- Mentored diverse student populations in scientific problem-solving, experimental interpretation, and laboratory best practices, fostering critical thinking and collaboration.
- Department of Biology
Staff Technical Operations Process Optimization Scientist
QuidelOrtho
San Diego, USA
06.2023 - 10.2024
- Facilitated NAAT assay design, development, optimization, and process characterization for multiplex molecular diagnostic products to enhance overall product performance.
- Led troubleshooting and process optimization initiatives for molecular diagnostic and IVD workflows within FDA and ISO regulated environments.
- Streamlined workflows through Lean Six Sigma methodologies, achieving 65% improvement in process efficiency while ensuring product quality and minimizing waste.
- Collaborated with R&D, Manufacturing, Engineering, and Quality teams to drive assay optimization, implement process improvements, and introduce new technologies.
- Performed root-cause investigations, CAPA implementation, and technical troubleshooting to improve product quality and manufacturing consistency.
- Supported assay scale-up and process transfer activities through workflow refinement, technical documentation, and protocol standardization.
- Improved GLP/GMP laboratory procedures by training over 65 staff members, resulting in significant increases in compliance and operational efficiency.
- Supported documentation and reporting activities for FDA and ISO compliance, audits, and quality system requirements.
Senior Technical Applications Scientist
Telesis Bio
San Diego, USA
01.2022 - 06.2023
- Developed and optimized protocols for novel molecular biology products and automated platforms, improving customer adoption and market penetration.
- Facilitated implementation and optimization of automated molecular biology and synthetic biology workflows, enhancing operational capabilities for biotechnology clients.
- Guided customers in assay troubleshooting and workflow optimization, streamlining NGS library preparation, CRISPR workflow design, and process integration.
- Collaborated with R&D and product development teams to support assay development, process refinement, and product improvement initiatives.
- Analyzed large-scale genomic and proteomic datasets to support product development decisions and improve workflow performance.
- Delivered scientific training and technical leadership, enhancing onboarding experience for customers and internal team members.
- Presented scientific and technical data at industry conferences and customer meetings.
Senior Principal Scientist
Proper Cell Bio
San Diego, USA
02.2019 - 01.2022
- Led cell culture process development activities including optimization, troubleshooting, assay development, and experimental design supporting translational research and product development initiatives.
- Directed mammalian cell culture workflows including maintenance, expansion, assay optimization, and process characterization across multiple research programs.
- Designed and executed independent experiments to support product quality, process consistency, and scientific development objectives.
- Facilitated technology transfer and process implementation through protocol standardization, scientific training, and cross-functional collaboration.
- Evaluated and implemented process improvements that increased experimental success rates by 30% and improved workflow efficiency.
- Contributed to laboratory operations including instrumentation setup, assay troubleshooting, equipment maintenance coordination, and scientific reporting in regulated environments.
- Ensured compliance with GLP-aligned laboratory practices by maintaining detailed experimental records, SOPs, and technical documentation.
- Engaged with scientific leadership and external stakeholders to advance translational development efforts and enhance research execution.
Faculty Instructor & Course Designer
California State University San Marcos
San Marcos, USA
05.2013 - 01.2022
- Increased student success in core Molecular Cell Biology courses by implementing active-learning and collaborative instructional strategies.
- Redesigned laboratory curriculum to enhance understanding of molecular biology, cell biology, qPCR, CRISPR technologies, DNA cloning, and biotechnology applications.
- Created inquiry-based laboratory experiences to improve skills in experimental design, scientific troubleshooting, and data interpretation.
- Guided students in mastering laboratory techniques, scientific communication, and translational biotechnology concepts.
Field Application Scientist
LI-COR Biosciences
San Diego, USA
05.2009 - 05.2013
- Facilitated assay development, optimized workflows, and implemented customer solutions for molecular diagnostics and biotechnology applications.
- Guided customers through assay troubleshooting, provided instrumentation support, and integrated workflows and processes.
- Conducted scientific training and technical presentations for customers and internal teams across biotechnology and research environments.
- Demonstrated product performance and application capabilities to enhance sales and engage customers effectively.
- Improved assay development efficiency and workflow performance through process optimization and technical support.
Field Application Scientist
Gyros, Inc.
, USA
09.2006 - 08.2009
- Guided customers through assay troubleshooting, process optimization, and workflow improvements for biotechnology and pharmaceutical applications, ensuring effective project execution.
- Led scientific presentations, customer training sessions, and technical demonstrations supporting product implementation and adoption.
- Partnered with customers and internal scientific teams to enhance assay consistency and streamline project timelines.
- Facilitated biomarker assay development, PK/PD assay implementation, immunogenicity workflows, and immunoassay optimization to enhance research outcomes.
Education
Ph.D. - Cell and Molecular Biology
University of California San Diego / San Diego State University
Bachelor of Science - Biological Science
California State University San Marcos
Skills
- Cell-based assays
- Product development
- Assay design and validation
- Experimental design
- Mammalian cell culture
- Immunoassays
- ELISA techniques
- qPCR and ddPCR
- NGS technologies and library preparation
- CRISPR applications
- Process optimization and validation
- GMP adherence
- GLP compliance
- FDA regulations
- ISO standards
- Statistical analysis with JMP
- Data analysis techniques
- Technical documentation skills
- Root cause analysis and CAPA
- Cross-functional teamwork strategies
- Scientific writing proficiency
- Workflow efficiency in laboratory operations
Websites
Awards
- President’s Award for Outstanding Lecturer – California State University San Marcos
- Outstanding Lecturer Award, College of Biological Sciences – California State University San Marcos
- ARCS Scholar – ARCS Foundation
Timeline
Staff Technical Operations Process Optimization Scientist
QuidelOrtho
06.2023 - 10.2024
Instructor
University of California, San Diego
01.2023 - Current
Senior Technical Applications Scientist
Telesis Bio
01.2022 - 06.2023
Senior Principal Scientist
Proper Cell Bio
02.2019 - 01.2022
Faculty Instructor & Course Designer
California State University San Marcos
05.2013 - 01.2022
Field Application Scientist
LI-COR Biosciences
05.2009 - 05.2013
Field Application Scientist
Gyros, Inc.
09.2006 - 08.2009
Ph.D. - Cell and Molecular Biology
University of California San Diego / San Diego State University
Bachelor of Science - Biological Science
California State University San Marcos