Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
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Laura Phelps

West Chicago,IL

Summary

Dynamic Senior Laboratory Associate at Midwestern University with expertise in laboratory techniques and a keen attention to detail. Enhanced test accuracy through rigorous quality control and streamlined processes, fostering collaboration and training among staff. Proven ability to adapt quickly and maintain a safe, efficient working environment.

Overview

44
44
years of professional experience

Work History

Senior Laboratory Associate

Midwestern University
08.2001 - 02.2025
  • Maintained a safe working environment through strict adherence to safety protocols and guidelines.
  • Improved laboratory efficiency by streamlining sample processing and data entry procedures.
  • Enhanced accuracy in test results by implementing rigorous quality control measures.
  • Participated in inter-laboratory collaborations or external partnerships for expanded research opportunities.
  • Managed inventory levels of lab consumables, ensuring continuous availability for ongoing experiments.
  • Trained new staff members on proper laboratory techniques, fostering a collaborative work environment.
  • Performed routine equipment maintenance, minimizing downtime and optimizing instrument performance.
  • Operated and performed preventative maintenance on laboratory equipment and instruments.
  • Prepared reagents and solutions following standard laboratory formulas and procedures.
  • Collaborated with researchers and scientists to design and execute experiments.

Medical Illustrator

Loyola University Medical Center
06.1993 - 06.2000
  • Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
  • Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
  • Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
  • Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
  • Managed time efficiently in order to complete all tasks within deadlines.
  • Paid attention to detail while completing assignments.

Medical Illustrator

Shriners Hospitals for Children
01.1988 - 05.1993
  • Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
  • Organized and detail-oriented with a strong work ethic.
  • Used critical thinking to break down problems, evaluate solutions and make decisions.
  • Learned and adapted quickly to new technology and software applications.
  • Proved successful working within tight deadlines and a fast-paced environment.
  • Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
  • Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.

Medical Technologist

Evanston Hospital Hematology
06.1981 - 08.1985
  • Contributed to the overall success of the laboratory by maintaining a positive attitude and demonstrating strong teamwork skills in daily interactions with peers.
  • Followed laboratory protocols for specimen processing, analysis, and results reporting.
  • Analyzed laboratory findings to check accuracy of results.
  • Assisted in the training and mentorship of new Medical Technologists, fostering a positive learning environment for skill development.
  • Employed microscopic techniques to collect and study blood samples to determine number of cells, morphology, and blood group, assessing compatibility for transfusion purposes.
  • Operated, calibrated, and maintained sophisticated instruments and equipment to facilitate quality laboratory and patient care operations.
  • Increased efficiency by troubleshooting equipment malfunctions and performing routine maintenance tasks as needed.
  • Trained and oriented new medical technologists to perform and interpret tests.
  • Input medical tests and clinical results data into computer using for storage and retrieval.
  • Supported patient care by providing timely and accurate test results to physicians and healthcare professionals.

Education

Masters of Associated Medical Science - Medical Illustration

University of Illinois Bio Communications
Chicago
05-1987

MTASCP - Medical Laboratory Science

Evanston Hospital School of Medical Technology
Evanston, IL
06-1980

Bachelor of Science - Biology

Northern Illinois Univerity
DeKalb, IL
05-1979

High School Diploma -

Cary Grove High School
Cary, IL
06-1974

Skills

  • Laboratory techniques
  • Chemical handling
  • Reagent preparation
  • Cell culture
  • Laboratory maintenance
  • Attention to detail
  • Detail-oriented
  • Specimen preparation
  • ELISA techniques
  • Microscopy techniques

Timeline

Senior Laboratory Associate

Midwestern University
08.2001 - 02.2025

Medical Illustrator

Loyola University Medical Center
06.1993 - 06.2000

Medical Illustrator

Shriners Hospitals for Children
01.1988 - 05.1993

Medical Technologist

Evanston Hospital Hematology
06.1981 - 08.1985

Masters of Associated Medical Science - Medical Illustration

University of Illinois Bio Communications

MTASCP - Medical Laboratory Science

Evanston Hospital School of Medical Technology

Bachelor of Science - Biology

Northern Illinois Univerity

High School Diploma -

Cary Grove High School