Denise Burwell
Durham,North Carolina
Summary
Passionate public health researcher looking to build upon skills and take on new responsibilities. Over 21 years of experience working in medical and science based positions and committed to understanding and addressing social determinants of health that impact the well-being of the population.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
Work History
Histology Coordinator
Integrated Laboratory Systems
01.2017
- Manage histology staff and coordinate all histology activities
- Prepare cost estimates and aid in proposals and bids
- Perform annual reviews with employees.
Research Associate II
Powered Research, LLC
01.2017 - Current
- Perform specialized in vitro ocular histology and histopathology studies for pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies; Use various stains, staining techniques, and immunohistochemistry to evaluate the toxicology of new drug therapies
- Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Organized and detail-oriented with a strong work ethic.
Histology Associate I
Integrated Laboratory System
01.2012 - 01.2017
- Process, embed, cut, and stain animal tissue
- Prepare reagents for processing and staining
- Process tissue utilizing standard SOP’s
- Program stainer and processor as needed
- Perform monthly and quarterly maintenance of lab equipment
- Perform routine and special stains utilizing standard protocols
- Perform immunohistochemistry staining both manually and automatically using primary and secondary antibodies
- Prepare tissue for macrodissection in preparation for RNA extraction
- Ensure that duties are performed per protocol requirements and adhered to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Good Laboratory Practices (GLPs).
Research Associate
Affinergy, Inc.
01.2010 - 01.2012
- Process, embed, cut, and stain all types of tissue specimens
- Assure specimen labeling and traceability requirements were met
- Utilize special stains
- Process soft tissue and bone specimens (both decal and non-decal)
- Trim animal tissue, including rats and rabbits
- Program stainer and processor
- Develop design protocols for histology projects
- Maintain a running inventory
- Prepare reagents.
Histology Laboratory Technician
National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences
01.2003 - 01.2010
- Perform preparation of animal and human tissue using a processor
- Prepare tissue for microtomy by embedding in paraffin wax
- Cut and mount tissue on glass slides
- Perform routine and special staining
- Maintain records on the computer of all submissions
- Calibrate and make sure that laboratory equipment is in working condition
- Utilize SOPs for the safe storage and handling of hazardous chemicals
- Use quality control methods to ensure a quality product
- Calculate reagents to prepare solutions
- Give monthly meeting presentations.
Education
Master of Public Health - Social and Behavioral Sciences
University of Florida
Gainesville, Florida12.2023
Bachelor of Science in Public Health -
University of North Carolina-Greensboro
Greensboro, North Carolina12.2018
Microbiology Curriculum Courses -
North Carolina State University
Raleigh, North Carolina05.2007
Associate in Science -
Durham Tech Community College
Durham, North Carolina05.2004
Associate in Arts -
Durham Tech Community College
Durham, North Carolina05.2004
Skills
- Abstract and Literature Reviews
- Work Planning and Prioritization
- Qualitative and Quantitative Data Collection
- Event Planning
- Community Outreach Development
- Data Entry
- Development of Infographics and Other Media
- Effective Communication
- Program Planning and Evaluation
- Medical Terminology
Certificationsandqualifications
- Immunohistochemistry Qualification, 08/2015, American Society for Clinical Pathology
- Histotechnician (HT) Certification, 11/2009, American Society for Clinical Pathology
Volunteer Experience
- Embracing Hope, Volunteer, 06/2024 - Present, Durham, North Carolina, Plan and implement mentoring and life skills programs for pre-k through college age students to promote success, Present and teach information on skill sets, educational pathways, and mental health and hygiene, Incorporate team building activities into training sessions to encourage overall well-being
- American Public Health Association, Abstract Reviewer, 05/2024, Washington, District of Columbia, Reviewed submitted abstracts for the APHA 2024 annual meeting for the HIV/AIDS program, Used standardized criteria to accept or reject abstracts
- UNC Gillings School of Public Health, Poster Contributor and Presenter, 02/2024, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, Participated in a poster session presenting data from a literature review of HIV prevention programs specifically tailored for Black women, Poster Title: xx
- Duke Cancer Institute, Volunteer, 06/2023 - Present, Durham, North Carolina, Assist men in receiving free health screenings, Help participants to various stations, check the accuracy of paperwork, and help complete intake forms as needed
- Durham County Department of Public Health, Men’s Health Council, 12/2019, Durham, North Carolina, Participated in a health fair at North Carolina Central University on World AIDS Day disseminating information about men’s health to promote awareness about risk factors and conditions that disproportionately impact Black men
- Durham County Department of Public Health, Volunteer, 2019 - Present, Durham, North Carolina, Help bridge communities through faith-based organizations, Attend quarterly meetings to plan community-based events promoting health and wellness, Participate in health and training seminars, Train other volunteers
Affiliations
- North Carolina Public Health Association
- American Public Health Association
- North Carolina Society of Histotechnology
Timeline
Histology Coordinator
Integrated Laboratory Systems
01.2017
Research Associate II
Powered Research, LLC
01.2017 - Current
Histology Associate I
Integrated Laboratory System
01.2012 - 01.2017
Research Associate
Affinergy, Inc.
01.2010 - 01.2012
Histology Laboratory Technician
National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences
01.2003 - 01.2010
Master of Public Health - Social and Behavioral Sciences
University of Florida
Bachelor of Science in Public Health -
University of North Carolina-Greensboro
Microbiology Curriculum Courses -
North Carolina State University
Associate in Science -
Durham Tech Community College
Associate in Arts -
Durham Tech Community College