Erika Tijerina
Houston
Summary
Results-driven senior laboratory professional with over five years of clinical and research experience, specializing in histology and immunohistochemistry (IHC) at a supervisory level. Expertise in providing applications support, troubleshooting, and developing protocols across various Leica histology platforms, including GT450, BOND-RX, Spectra ST, and Spectra CV. Recognized for effectively training and mentoring technical staff while resolving complex workflow challenges and fostering cross-functional collaboration to enhance regulated clinical research programs. Currently an MBA candidate at Texas A&M University’s Mays Business School, integrating robust technical skills with strong business acumen to excel in a Senior Field Applications Specialist role.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
Work History
Sample Processing Supervisor
Precision for Medicine
01.2022 - Current
- Provide supervisory-level histology and applications support for tissue processing and staining workflows utilizing Leica GT450 tissue processors, Leica BOND-RX automated IHC systems, and Leica Spectra ST and Spectra CV platforms.
- Serve as a technical escalation point for histology-related issues, including instrument troubleshooting, workflow optimization, and staining quality concerns.
- Troubleshot mechanical and workflow issues on the Leica GT450, including resolving slide jams and restoring instrument operation to minimize downtime.
- Develop, modify, and execute IHC staining protocols within the Leica BOND-RX software environment, ensuring consistent and high-quality results.
- Independently run and monitor slides on BOND-RX, Spectra ST, and Spectra CV systems, assessing output quality and adherence to study requirements.
- Troubleshoot staining performance and instrument-related issues across BOND-RX, Spectra ST, and Spectra CV platforms, adjusting protocols and workflows as needed.
- Train and mentor laboratory staff on Leica instrumentation operation, histology best practices, and quality-driven workflows.
- Lead project startup activities including protocol review, reagent selection, supply ordering, and instrument readiness.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with project management, quality, and compliance teams to support clinical research programs under GCP, GLP, CLIA, and CAP standards.
- Utilize LIMS and BSI systems for sample tracking, documentation, and regulatory compliance.
Laboratory Assistant / Animal Lab Technician
Kiromic BioPharma
08.2020 - 01.2022
- Supported life sciences research through mammalian cell culture, PCR, flow cytometry, and mycoplasma testing.
- Provided animal care and handling in compliance with IACUC and AALAS guidelines.
- Prepared reagents, maintained laboratory documentation, and supported experimental setup and analysis.
- Participated in COVID-19 testing initiatives, supporting high-volume laboratory operations and quality standards.
- Assisted with general laboratory maintenance and equipment preparation.
Education
Master of Business Administration (MBA) -
Mays Business School, Texas A&M University
Bachelor’s Degree - Anthropology, Minor in Biology
University of Houston
Houston, TXSkills
- Leica GT450 operation
- Leica BOND-RX Automated IHC Stainer – protocol development, execution, troubleshooting
- Experience with Leica Spectra ST staining processes
- Leica Spectra CV coverslipper operation
- Histology workflow enhancement
- Instrument troubleshooting
- Histology and immunohistochemistry
- Clinical & Research Techniques: PBMC isolation, Apostream workflow, flow cytometry, PCR, mammalian cell culture
- Application support: Workflow improvement
- Leadership & Training: Staff supervision, technical training, SOP implementation
- Quality & Compliance: GCP, GLP, CLIA, CAP, IACUC, AALAS
- Systems & Tools: LIMS, BSI, Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook
- Efficient workload management
Timeline
Sample Processing Supervisor
Precision for Medicine
01.2022 - Current
Laboratory Assistant / Animal Lab Technician
Kiromic BioPharma
08.2020 - 01.2022
Bachelor’s Degree - Anthropology, Minor in Biology
University of Houston
Master of Business Administration (MBA) -
Mays Business School, Texas A&M University