Jennae Romero
Denver,CO
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
Work History
Wastewater Laboratory Technologist II
CDPHE State Of Colorado
Denver, CO
09.2022 - Current
- Executed high-complexity testing involving droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) and digital PCR (dPCR) for the detection of COVID-19, EV-D68, RSV, Influenza, and Mpox.
- Accurately and efficiently tested wastewater samples using the QXONE and QX200 Droplet Digital PCR Systems, as well as the QIAcuity Eight Digital PCR System.
- Conducted diagnostic testing for avian influenza (H5), including influenza A and B subtyping, and FLUVID testing.
- Implemented process enhancements resulting in improved accuracy, precision, and reproducibility.
- Collaborated with the team to validate new assays and processes, including the evaluation of two nucleic acid extraction protocols, which improved efficiency and throughput.
- Performed daily extractions using the Qiagen EZ-1 Advanced XL and Kingfisher Flex instruments, subsequently generating, analyzing, and interpreting the experimental data to release sample results.
- Trained to use Oxford Nanopore's GridION sequencer to perform whole-genome sequencing.
- Facilitated timely and consistent communication with epidemiologists and bioinformaticians, effectively managing expectations for forthcoming results and transparently relaying any concerns, delays, accomplishments, or adjustments encountered along the way.
- Operated as one-third of a three-person team, collaborating closely, and reporting directly to the supervisor.
- Assisted in the training of new laboratory staff members.
Molecular Laboratory Technologist
CDPHE (COVID-19 Unit)
Denver, CO
10.2020 - 09.2022
- Performed multiplex nucleic acid amplification testing on patient samples for the presence of SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) using ABI 7500 Fast Dx and QuantStudio 5 thermocyclers.
- Extracted SARS-CoV-2 viral nucleic acid using the KingFisher Flex Purification System and the EZ1 Advanced XL Instrument.
- Analyzed molecular data for the release of diagnostic results to patients, providers, and the epidemiology team.
- Ensured proper handling and processing of specimens in compliance with established safety guidelines, assay protocols, and CLIA standards.
- Implemented quality control measures and maintained detailed documentation for regulatory compliance.
Quality Control Laboratory Technician
Integrated Genetics/LabCorp
Westborough, MA
02.2019 - 07.2020
- Skilled in implementing various molecular techniques such as Sanger sequencing, PCR, ddPCR and gel electrophoresis.
- Utilized SeqScape software to effectively analyze Sanger sequencing data.
- Ordered, prepared, and tested new reagents to ensure compliance with specifications and expected quality results for use in molecular diagnostic assays.
- Spearheaded validation of new reagents and controls through genetic carrier screening, analyzing de-identified DNA samples from peripheral blood, saliva, amniotic fluid, and chorionic villi. Tests included Cystic Fibrosis, Spinal Muscular Atrophy, and Fragile X Syndrome.
- Troubleshot and resolved quality inconsistencies concerning reagents.
- Implemented stringent quality controls for adherence to CLIA, OSHA and risk-management guidelines as well as safety procedures.
- Operated and maintained advanced instrumentation including thermal cyclers, DNA sequencers (ABI 3730xl), spectrophotometers (NanoDrop One), and liquid handlers (Tecan, Biomek).
- Contributed to workflow optimization and increased operational efficiency.
Laboratory Intern
University of New Mexico, NM
Albuquerque, NM
05.2017 - 08.2017
- Project: Ascorbic acid-stimulated human cardiac fibroblasts used for stem cell therapy.
- Utilized various analytic processes such as spectrophotometry, microscopy and protein separation through gel electrophoresis.
- Proficient in carrying out wet lab techniques, such as tissue/cell culture, PCR, and Western blotting.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Biology
New Mexico Highlands University
Las Vegas, NM05-2018
Associate of Applied Science - Medical Laboratory Technology
Arapahoe Community College
Littleton, COSkills
- Gel Electrophoresis
- RT-qPCR, ddPCR and dPCR across many platforms
- Multiplatform Nucleic Acid and Protein Extraction
- Cell Culture Proficiency
- Microscopy
- Sanger, Next Generation and Whole Genome Sequencing
- Specimen Processing
- Medical Laboratory Procedures
- Equipment Maintenance
- Analytical Thinking
- Data Interpretation
- Method validations
- Quality Control
- Precision pipetting and multichannel pipetting
- SOP writing and revision
Timeline
Wastewater Laboratory Technologist II
CDPHE State Of Colorado
09.2022 - Current
Molecular Laboratory Technologist
CDPHE (COVID-19 Unit)
10.2020 - 09.2022
Quality Control Laboratory Technician
Integrated Genetics/LabCorp
02.2019 - 07.2020
Laboratory Intern
University of New Mexico, NM
05.2017 - 08.2017
Bachelor of Arts - Biology
New Mexico Highlands University
Associate of Applied Science - Medical Laboratory Technology
Arapahoe Community College