Gabriela Ramsay
Washington
Summary
Experienced Laboratory professional specializing in molecular and clinical microbiology techniques, including PCR and antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Skilled in laboratory operations, data analysis, and quality control within clinical and research settings. Committed to maintaining CAP and CLIA compliance while pursuing ASCP certification to enhance clinical and research capabilities.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Medical Laboratory Technologist
Howard University Hospital
Washington
09.2023 - Current
- Performed Gram staining and inoculation of blood, CSF, urine, and other specimens for bacterial, fungal, viral, and parasitic infections using sterile technique.
- Interpreted bacterial culture plates by analyzing colony morphology, hemolysis, and biochemical testing to identify organisms.
- Conducted antimicrobial susceptibility testing (MICs) to inform targeted treatment strategies.
- Reported critical and pathogenic results to providers, infection control, and public health agencies.
- Utilized automated systems for bacterial identification and antimicrobial analysis, including BioFire Torch for rapid blood organism detection, BACTEC FX blood culture monitoring, and MicroScan Walkaway DxM for ID/Anti-Susceptibility Testing, interpreting results to ensure timely and effective infection treatment.
- Molecular testing: BD Macro-Vue RPR kits for serological testing for syphilis infections, operated automated PCR testing instruments (e.g., Hologic Panther, Cepheid GeneXpert) for infectious diseases, including GC/CT/Trich and respiratory infection e.g. Influenza, Respiratory Syncytial virus (RSV).
- Performed proficiency testing surveys to ensure laboratory procedure quality assurance in alignment with CAP standards.
- Supported validation processes and quality control testing of new assays, reagents, and instrumentation.
- Maintained inventory and documented results, QC data, and validation activities in compliance with CAP/CLIA regulations.
Medical Laboratory Technician
Capital Digestive Care
Washington
10.2021 - 10.2023
- Embedded and sectioned tissue samples using microtome and cryostat methods.
- Performed H&E staining and reviewed slides microscopically, ensuring accuracy in quality assurance.
- Prepared IHC/cytology samples for processing on automated stainers.
- Grossed tissue samples into sections for embedding, ensuring quality and consistency.
- Entered data into laboratory information systems and generated comprehensive reports for pathologist review.
Medical Laboratory Technologist
Pandemic Response Laboratory
Washington
04.2021 - 02.2022
- Isolated RNA from oral and nasopharyngeal specimens using Beckman instruments for PCR via NAAT assays, contributing to accurate diagnostic results.
- Validated master mixes, reagents, training panels, and PPC plates to ensure reliability and compliance with testing protocols.
- Performed QC/QA on instruments to ensure accurate results.
- Analyzed test data and prepared reports using LIMS, delivering timely results to providers for informed decision-making.
- Conducted parameter checks for incubators, freezers, autoclaves, and biological safety cabinets.
Clinical Laboratory Assistant II
Curative Inc.
Washington
05.2020 - 04.2021
- Processed PCR using Bio-Rad and Roche thermocyclers or HIGHRes A Cell automated system.
- Extracted RNA from oral specimens, ensuring reliable samples for COVID-19 PCR testing.
- Ran QC plates, confirming assay efficiency and accuracy for dependable test results.
- Analyzed results and exported reports, facilitating accurate patient records and timely clinical decisions.
Education
Master of Science - Microbiology & Immunology
Georgetown University
Washington, DCBachelor of Science - Biology
University of the District of Columbia
Washington, DCSkills
- Antimicrobial susceptibility testing (MIC interpretation)
- Microbial staining (Gram and HE staining)
- Plate reading: (microorganisms morphology, hemolysis, growth) & biochemical testing
- Molecular testing:qPCR, RT-PCR, DNA/RNA extraction, ELISA, electrophoresis
- Automated platforms: BioFire (Blood pathogen identification), BACTEC FX, Hologic Panther (STD panel), GeneXpert (Respiratory Panel)
- Quality control testing
- Assay and Instrument validation
- Reagent preparation
- Laboratory inventory management
- Reagent preparation
- Data analysis
Certification
ASCP Specialist in Microbiology (SM), In Progress
Timeline
Medical Laboratory Technologist
Howard University Hospital
09.2023 - Current
Medical Laboratory Technician
Capital Digestive Care
10.2021 - 10.2023
Medical Laboratory Technologist
Pandemic Response Laboratory
04.2021 - 02.2022
Clinical Laboratory Assistant II
Curative Inc.
05.2020 - 04.2021
Master of Science - Microbiology & Immunology
Georgetown University
Bachelor of Science - Biology
University of the District of Columbia