Dona Warnakulasuriya
Hagerstown,MD
Summary
Tenacious working professional with proven time management and collaboration skills developed over years of volunteer and work experience; seeking a position that requires a dedicated, self-motivated, and enthusiastic employee. Strong interpersonal skills enhanced by taking part in hospital services, government positions to develop confidence and communication abilities. Prior experiences have generated an understanding and applicability of general employability skills, multitasking skills, time management skills, team collaboration skills and ability to reflect and learn from others to further develop as a professional and as a person.
Overview
2027
2027
years of professional experience
Work History
Research Associate I
Frederick National Cancer Laboratory| NCI
Frederick, MD
12.2022 - Current
- Processed carcinogenic material from non-human specimens and patient xenografts.
- Validated incoming sample information ( model numbers, freezer ID, etc.) before inputting information into Excel record keeping spreadsheet to check information accuracy and integrity while independently locating and correcting concerns.
- Developed a more efficient inventory organization strategy to cut down specimen locating time by an hour, which provided us more time to focus on furthering productivity.
- Conducted DNA, RNA and protein purification and quantification.
- Prepared numerous aliquots of RNA/DNA for distribution. For the year of 2022 I prepared 1548 samples within 7 months.
- Set and oversaw quality assurance guidelines in relation to the samples produced through the quantifications of protein, DNA and RNA concentrations.
- Executed corrective actions when test controls were outside specified limits.
- Analyzed real time QPCR results and used through statistical methods to determine the percent mouse contamination for each sample collected.
- Managed operational documents ( Excel Spreadsheet) and produced reports detailing the results concluded through real time PCR of the samples.
- Analyzed data from QPCR to create and organize graphs, charts, and spreadsheets for other team members, publications and presentations; through this analysis we concluded the percentage mouse and percentage human within each sample. These sample percentages and other key details are then compiled onto the file server for other team members to view.
- Cross-trained in execution and workflow support for C. bovis assay testing, including sample preparation, PCR setup, and amplification procedures.
- Performed duties in accordance with applicable standards, policies and regulatory guidelines to promote safe working yet fast paced environment.
- Used critical thinking to break down problems, evaluate solutions and make decisions.
- Exceeded goals through effective task prioritization, multitasking and great work ethic.
- Carried out day-day-day duties efficiently on own and as part of a team.
- Followed research protocols when gathering data and performing lab experiments.
- Maximized efficiency by meticulously organizing and administering experiments.
- Worked and maintained lab under Biosafety Level-2 conditions.
- Safely prepared reagents, compounds and lab test solutions such as buffers, PCR Master mixes, Digestion mixes, etc.
- Verified DNA Aliquots pass control standards before release.
- Collaborated with team members to initiate best practices to achieve organizational goals and training new, incoming employees.
- Streamlined research processes (purification and quantification) to meet tight deadlines per requests of other team members.
- Receive packages/mail and keep documentations for record
- Organized inventory of supplies and maintained facilities ensuring everything is stocked.
Laboratory Research Technician
Fredrick National Cancer Laboratory| NCI
Frederick, MD
04.2022 - 12.2022
- Processed carcinogenic material from non-human specimens and patient xenografts.
- Validated incoming sample information ( model numbers, freezer ID, etc.) before inputting information into Excel record keeping spreadsheet to check information accuracy and integrity while independently locating and correcting concerns.
- Developed a more efficient inventory organization strategy to cut down specimen locating time, which provided us more time to focus on furthering productivity.
- Conducted DNA, RNA and protein purification and quantification.
- Prepared numerous aliquots of RNA/DNA for distribution.
- Set and oversaw quality assurance guidelines in relation to the samples produced through the quantifications of protein, DNA and RNA concentrations.
- Executed corrective actions when test controls were outside specified limits.
- Analyzed real time QPCR results and used through statistical methods to determine the percent mouse contamination for each sample collected.
- Managed operational documents ( Excel Spreadsheet) and produced reports detailing the results concluded through real time PCR of the samples.
- Analyzed data from QPCR to create and organize graphs, charts, and spreadsheets for other team members, publications and presentations; through this analysis we concluded the percentage mouse and percentage human within each sample. These sample percentages and other key details are then compiled onto one major shared excel file for other team members to view.
- Performed duties in accordance with applicable standards, policies and regulatory guidelines to promote safe working yet fast paced environment.
- Used critical thinking to break down problems, evaluate solutions and make decisions.
- Exceeded goals through effective task prioritization, multitasking and great work ethic.
- Carried out day-day-day duties efficiently on own and as part of a team.
- Followed research protocols when gathering data and performing lab experiments.
- Maximized efficiency by meticulously organizing and administering experiments.
- Worked and maintained lab under Biosafety Level-2 conditions.
- Safely prepared reagents, compounds and lab test solutions such as buffers, PCR Master mixes, Digestion mixes, etc.
- Verified DNA Aliquots pass control standards before release.
- Collaborated with team members to initiate best practices to achieve organizational goals.
- Streamlined research processes (purification and quantification) to meet tight deadlines per requests of other team members.
- Receive packages/mail and keep documentations for record
- Organized inventory of supplies and maintained facilities ensuring everything is stocked.
Sales Associate
The Cosmetic Company| Estee Lauder
Hagerstown, MD
2023 - 07.2024
- Assisted customers with product selection, enhancing overall shopping experience.
- Maintained visual merchandising standards to optimize store presentation.
- Processed transactions accurately using point-of-sale systems.
- Handled inventory management, ensuring product availability and organization.
- Supported promotional events by setting up displays and engaging with customers.
- Greeted customers and helped with product questions, selections, and purchases.
- Promoted special offers and events by engaging with customers on the sales floor, driving awareness of promotions and boosting sales conversion rates.
Clinical Lab Assistant
Meritus Medical Center
Hagerstown, MD
02.2022 - 04.2024
- Set up, maintained and verified sterility of lab equipment and tools.
- Receiving/processing blood and tissue samples with focus on accuracy and adherence to protocol.
- Analyzed experiment and test results to validate adherence to standards and specifications.
- Maintained strict aseptic fields when collecting and running tests for biological samples, minimizing infection risks.
- Quickly learned new skills and applied them to daily tasks, improving efficiency and productivity.
- Carried out day-day-day duties accurately and efficiently.
- Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
- Worked flexible hours; night, weekend, and holiday shifts.
- Performed duties( receiving samples, checking for clots, centrifuging, running tests, making aliquots, etc.) in accordance with applicable standards, policies and regulatory guidelines to promote safe working environment.
- Maintained energy and enthusiasm in fast-paced environment (STAT Lab; emergency room).
- Proved successful working within tight deadlines and fast-paced atmosphere.
- Developed and maintained courteous and effective working relationships.
- Used critical thinking to break down problems, evaluate solutions and make decisions.
- Maintained lab by calibrating equipment, running QC and cleaning surfaces and items used.
- Assisted with support duties such as filling products , labeling products, testing samples and taking inventory.
- Logged samples, medical testing and blood bank specimens correctly into computerized tracking system (EPIC & WellSky).
- Prepared specimens for testing and analysis through use of machinery such as Beckman's AU, DXI, Sofias and Novas .
- Prepared specimens for analysis and established proper chronological priorities in testing.
- Prepared samples for centrifugation, aliquoting and preserving sample integrity.
- Managed specimen sample handling, receiving, storage and inventory.
- Maintained current knowledge of developments in technical instrumentation.
- Carefully reviewed test results for accuracy.
Reporting Specialist
COVID
Houston, TX
05.2020 - 12.2020
- Worked across various platforms to create, generate, manage and schedule systematic reports for multiple Health Departments across states
- Negotiated/communicated system transfers and updates for COVID-19 reporting with other companies and state health departments (NY,FL, GA,CT, MI,SC)
- Created System of Procedure (SOP) guides for various states protocols of system transfers for the early COVID-19 reporting systems
- Organizing, formatting scientific data/ results, and reports for COVID-19 testing; this was thousands of results per day under a immensely tight deadlines ( 24-48 hour deadlines).
- Compiled, maintained and verified data and distributed information through reports and queries to support operations
- Organized records and historical data
- Supported cross-functional relationships to discuss and seek resolution to issues discovered during analysis of various reports and data.
Sale Associate
Chico's
Hagerstown, MD
01.2017 - 01.2020
- Meets company sales goals by utilizing sales techniques and communicating product knowledge to customer; recommends merchandise selections or helps to locate or obtain merchandise based on customer needs and desires
- Performs various sales and register transactions including ringing purchases, processing of cash or credit payments and counting money
- Maintains awareness of customers to both increase service levels and reduce security risks; remains current on policies regarding payment
- Maintains standards in merchandise handling, presentation, loss
prevention, and all other duties as directed by Management. - Participates in visual directives including monthly store sets and zone
maintenance. - Other duties as assigned/required.
- Engaged with customers to effectively build rapport and lasting
relationships. - Prepared merchandise for sales floor by pricing or tagging.
- Helped customers locate products and checked store system for
merchandise at other sites. - Solved customer challenges by offering relevant products and
services. - Grew sales and boosted profits, applying proactive management
strategies and enhancing sales training.
Cloning Project
Dr. Ridlon
09.2018 - 12.2018
- Cloning of Methanobrevibacter smithii through Escherichia coli to isolate 12α-HSDH gene Expression
- Amplify suspected 12α-HSDH gene of M
- Smithii., using synthetic copy of gene optimized for E
- Coli codon usage as template and 12α-HSDH specific primers
- Gel Electrophoresis
- DNA Extraction
- Tracked collected specimens by initialing, dating and noting times of collection
- Identified microorganisms present in samples and cultivated strains to support clinical diagnostics
- Maintained strict aseptic fields when collecting biological samples, minimizing infection risks
- Located markers and outlined findings in thorough reports
- Maintained documentation on tests performed in lab.
Customer Service Representative/ Behind Desk Worker
Montgomery County Public Library
01.2012 - 01.2014
- Shelved Library materials in proper orders
- Ensured neat public and desk areas
- Performed clerical projects such as filing and typing
- Kept library records
- Attended to customer in need of service, by referring specific location sites, searching for specific items and handling complaints
- Collected and box books for donations
- Organized children's reading area.
Election Judge
Montgomery County
04.2016 - Current
- Setting up polling area
- Oversaw greeting and directing public
- Furnished assistance and advice to new voters on proper steps and procedures
- Collected necessary information from voters to determine correct voting location and ballot
- Used electronic poll book (EPB) to perform data entry and prepare correspondence
- Issued receipts to receive ballads
- Issued ballads
- Tally votes and seal machine
- Verify voting machine serial numbers against keys and documentation
- Obtained signatures and recorded names of voters to prevent voting of unauthorized persons
- Coordinated with team members to verify proper placement and quantities of ballots and equipment
- Closed voting booths by sealing ballot boxes and turning in votes
- Oversaw accuracy testing and maintenance of voting units
- Created fair, non-partisan environment to protect free choice of voters.
Bird Window Strike Survey Project
Bridgewater College
Bridgewater, VA
09.2021 - 11.2021
- Study focused on understanding how building structure and bird biomechanics influence vulnerability to window collisions in different bird species
- Recorded observations and data on stunned birds located around campus building perimeters at Bridgewater College according to standardized measurements
- Photographed original orientation of specimens and strike zones
- Tagged, collected and stored bird carcasses for further study and examination.
Patient Care Assistant/ Front Desk Support
Johns Hopkins Suburban Hospital
Bethesda, MD
01.2015 - 01.2017
- Assists nurses where necessary in care of patients and maintenance of unit
- Putting away supplies and stocking meds
- Completing inventory and ordering supplies as needed
- Organizing patient portfolios
- Assist with visitors and patient location
- Create and post nurses' scheduling
- Receives and dispatches calls from admitting and nursing for patient admissions and discharges
- Performed filing as requested, makes address/ file labels, makes copy on copy/fax machine and answers outside phone calls
- Assisted in transporting bodies to morgue when necessary
- Recognized and reported abnormalities or changes in patients' health status to case manager
- Attended to patient and family's immediate needs and concerns by acknowledging and providing required attention
- Answered call lights and supported patient comfort and safety by adjusting bed rails and equipment
- Upheld confidentiality requirements and regulatory compliance guidelines.
Education
Master of Science - Biotechnology- Regulatory Affairs
University of Maryland Global Campus
Hyattsville, MD05.2027
Bachelor of Science - Biology
Bridgewater College
Bridgewater, VA12.2021
High School Diploma -
Richard Montgomery High School
Rockville, MD06.2016
Skills
- Performing Lab Tests
- Data Research and Analysis
- Statistical Analysis
- Computerized Tracking
- Recordkeeping strengths
- Documentation and report preparation
- Microsoft Office advanced proficiency
- Organization
- Flexible and Adaptable
- Time Management
- Problem-Solving
- Professional communication
- Multitasking Abilities
- Team collaboration
- Google Docs, Sheets & Slides
- Videography/photography/Canva
- Website creation
Accomplishments
- Promoted within less than a year (6-7 months) at Frederick National Laboratory
- Member of International Bachelorette Program (IB)
- Received International Bachelorette Diploma
- Rocket Core Internship _ Biology Teacher Assistant
- Red Cross Organization Member
- Collected donations for rebuilding Haiti
- Collected donations for cancer patients
- Collected donations for the Earthquake in Nepal.
Affiliations
Red Cross Association
International Bachelorette Alumni
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
Sinhalese
Native or Bilingual
Spanish
Limited Working
Timeline
Research Associate I
Frederick National Cancer Laboratory| NCI
12.2022 - Current
Laboratory Research Technician
Fredrick National Cancer Laboratory| NCI
04.2022 - 12.2022
Clinical Lab Assistant
Meritus Medical Center
02.2022 - 04.2024
Bird Window Strike Survey Project
Bridgewater College
09.2021 - 11.2021
Reporting Specialist
COVID
05.2020 - 12.2020
Cloning Project
Dr. Ridlon
09.2018 - 12.2018
Sale Associate
Chico's
01.2017 - 01.2020
Election Judge
Montgomery County
04.2016 - Current
Patient Care Assistant/ Front Desk Support
Johns Hopkins Suburban Hospital
01.2015 - 01.2017
Customer Service Representative/ Behind Desk Worker
Montgomery County Public Library
01.2012 - 01.2014
Sales Associate
The Cosmetic Company| Estee Lauder
2023 - 07.2024
Master of Science - Biotechnology- Regulatory Affairs
University of Maryland Global Campus
Bachelor of Science - Biology
Bridgewater College
High School Diploma -
Richard Montgomery High School