Kristina Thanasi

Conduct advanced spatial genomics and multi-omics experiments in a histology laboratory, including RNA/DNA extraction, cDNA bead purification, library preparation, and Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), with applications in Stereo-seq Spatial Transcriptomics.

Perform multi-step tissue sample processing and quality control (QC) to ensure data integrity, reproducibility, and suitability for high-throughput sequencing platforms.

Support technology transfer by testing and validating new protocols through pilot projects, troubleshooting workflows and providing feedback to optimize assay performance and ensure reproducibility.

Collaborate cross-functionally with scientists, assay developers, and data teams to align lab execution with research objectives and downstream analysis needs.

Maintain precise sample tracking, documentation, and data management in Benchling, supporting reproducibility and compliance with quality standards.

Improved laboratory operations by 25% through streamlined inventory management, optimized space utilization, enhanced safety compliance, and proactive equipment maintenance.

Support team training and onboarding, developing training materials and mentoring new staff to ensure consistent, high-quality lab performance.

Present experimental outcomes in team meetings, contributing to collaborative decision-making and advancing spatial genomics research strategies.

Delivered end-to-end diagnostic services in a small-lab environment, covering patient intake, phlebotomy, specimen processing, analysis, and reporting.

Operated automated hematology and clinical chemistry analyzers, performing daily controls, calibrations, and troubleshooting to ensure accuracy.

Processed blood and body fluid samples through centrifugation, aliquoting, and preparation for downstream testing.

Conducted light microscopy for urine sediments, peripheral blood smears, and body-fluid cell counts/differentials, correlating microscopic findings with analyzer outputs.

Performed microbiology techniques, including plating and culturing patient samples on agar plates for bacterial detection and monitoring.

Investigated unexpected or discrepant results, initiating secondary testing or recollection to safeguard diagnostic reliability.

Utilized a custom Laboratory Information System (LIS) integrated with national e-health systems to accession specimens, manage patient data, and release results in compliance with regulations.

Maintained aseptic technique, biosafety standards, and regulatory compliance while also managing customer-facing responsibilities, such as greeting patients, explaining procedures, and delivering results.cs.

Supported biology and biotechnology teaching laboratories by independently setting up experiments, preparing reagents, buffers, culture media, and sterile consumables to enable hands-on student learning.

Performed cell culture work with CHO, mammalian, and HeLa cells, including thawing cryopreserved stocks, seeding, maintaining growth conditions, monitoring confluence, and passaging; assessed cell viability and density using hemocytometry and trypan blue staining.

Conducted PCR and RT-PCR assays to demonstrate nucleic acid amplification and gene expression analysis, supporting instructional and research applications.

Maintained, calibrated, and sterilized laboratory equipment (e.g., pipettes, centrifuges, autoclaves, thermal cyclers), ensuring accurate, safe, and reliable operations.

Managed autoclaving and sterilization of media, glassware, and consumables, guaranteeing aseptic conditions for both microbial and mammalian experiments.

Oversaw laboratory inventory management, including organizing, and restocking reagents, consumables, and equipment, ensuring readiness for multiple simultaneous lab sessions.

Collaborated closely with faculty and lab management to maintain a safe and efficient laboratory environment, adhering to biosafety protocols and supporting smooth instructional operations.

Performed venipuncture and blood collection from patients, including those with infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis, following strict safety and biohazard protocols.

Accessioned and accurately labeled patient samples; ensured secure transfer to the University Medical Research Laboratory.

Logged and maintained patient data in the laboratory information system (LIS) with high attention to confidentiality and accuracy.

Operated and maintained hematology and biochemistry analyzers for routine diagnostic testing.

Documented and recorded test results to support clinical and research activities.

Gained hands-on clinical laboratory training across hematology, coagulation, and transfusion medicine, working under strict quality and biosafety standards.

Performed Complete Blood Count (CBC) analyses and interpreted results for clinical diagnosis, utilizing automated hematology analyzers and manual verification.

Prepared and evaluated peripheral blood smears, applying advanced cell morphology identification skills to detect hematological abnormalities.

Conducted coagulation assays (PT, APTT, INR) and correlated findings with patient conditions to support treatment decisions.

Executed phlebotomy and specimen processing, including labeling, accessioning, and data entry into laboratory information systems (LIS), ensuring accuracy and traceability.

Processed and separated blood into plasma, platelets, and red blood cells, contributing to transfusion and research workflows.

Collaborated with laboratory staff on quality control procedures, proper calibration of analyzers, and adherence to standardized protocols.

Developed a strong foundation in sample management, assay execution, instrumentation, and data documentation — directly transferable to biotech and research laboratory environments.