Maria Cissell
Scottsdale,AZ
Summary
Detail-oriented laboratory and forensic science professional with experience in molecular diagnostics, laboratory operations, specimen processing, and forensic pathology support. Skilled in fast-paced clinical environments, specimen workflow coordination, evidence handling, EHR systems, and molecular testing procedures. Recognized for adaptability, accuracy, and strong interdisciplinary communication.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Volunteer
Maricopa Medical Examiner
2024.11 - Current
- Collaborated with forensic technicians and medical examiners to facilitate postmortem examinations, focusing on evidence collection, help eviscerate the brain marrow, and fingerprinting processes.
- Oversaw the management of medical supplies and equipment to support autopsy procedures.
Specimen Collector
Precision Diagnostics
2023.04 - Current
- Analyzed metabolite test panels to identify potential substance abuse in prescribed and illicit substances.
- Shadows anesthesiologist in spinal cord procedures.
- Assisted in specimen collection and processing using an EHR system, ensuring accurate data entry.
- Promptly responded to healthcare professionals' inquiries regarding test results and sample collection issues.
Laboratory Operation Specalists
Caris Life Sciences
2025.03 - 2025.09
- Oversaw the preparation and distribution of slides to molecular and immunohistochemistry departments for testing.
- Managed and resolved issues with laboratory equipment, such as automated H&E and NFR stainers.
- Coordinated the workflow of cancer patient samples through laboratory testing processes.
Molecular Technologist
Ten Healthcare
2022.06 - 2022.12
- Extracted COVID-19, UTI, URI, women's health, and wound samples with precision.
- Ensured aseptic conditions during the use of laboratory instruments for bodily fluid analysis.
- Determined viral and bacterial infection types and their antibiotic resistance, consistently meeting the 24-hour turnaround requirement.
Education
Professional Science Master's (PSM) - Forensic Science
Arizona State University
Tempe, AZ2024-08
Bachelor of Arts - Criminology
Arkansas State University
Jonesboro, AR2022-05
Skills
- Real-Time PCR (RT-PCR)
- Molecular diagnostics
- EHR systems
- Evidence collection
- Fingerprint identification
- Laboratory instrumentation
- Immunohistochemistry workflow
- Patient specimen collection
- Chain of custody procedures
- Data entry and documentation
- Quality assurance
- Infection control
Accomplishments
- National Honor Society Member.
Timeline
Laboratory Operation Specalists
Caris Life Sciences
2025.03 - 2025.09
Volunteer
Maricopa Medical Examiner
2024.11 - Current
Specimen Collector
Precision Diagnostics
2023.04 - Current
Molecular Technologist
Ten Healthcare
2022.06 - 2022.12
Professional Science Master's (PSM) - Forensic Science
Arizona State University
Bachelor of Arts - Criminology
Arkansas State University