Melanie Ta
Jacksonville,FL
Summary
Scientist with comprehensive experience in medical laboratory environments. Demonstrates expertise in diagnostic testing, quality control, genotyping, and data analysis. Strong focus on team collaboration and communication, adaptable to changing needs. Skilled in utilizing advanced laboratory equipment, implementing safety protocols, and maintaining accurate results. Reliable, results-driven, and committed to upholding high standards.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Medical Laboratory Scientist III
Florida Department of Health
Jacksonville, FL
11.2025 - Current
- Conducted HIV diagnostic testing for patient screening
- Maintained laboratory equipment, performed routine calibrations, and ensured optimal functionality at all times.
- Exercised pre-analytical, analytical and post-analytical processing procedures
- Implemented quality control measures to ensure accurate test results in compliance with CLIA.
- Trained and mentored junior staff on laboratory protocols and best practices for specimen handling and instrument processing.
- Performed HIV whole genome sequencing on Illumina MiSeq I100
Biological Scientist II - Molecular
Florida Department of Health
Jacksonville, FL
09.2024 - 11.2025
- Fostered a collaborative team environment, effectively contributing to the achievement of daily operational objectives through coordinated efforts with fellow team members.
- Exhibited outstanding efficiency in DNA extractions and digital polymerase chain reaction (dPCR), meeting stringent time constraints while maintaining quality standards.
- Consistently maintained a high turnaround time for laboratory data reporting, ensuring timely, accurate, and up-to-date results for healthcare facilities.
- Adapted adeptly to evolving laboratory projects and changes to SOPs, delivering personal assistance and support to both team members and lab supervisor.
- Cross-trained in HIV diagnostic testing, improving HIV department's efficiency
Project Manager
GlomCon Foundation
Remote
03.2024 - 11.2025
- Coordinated and managed collaborative and educational programs and projects, allowed for seamless operations and success of programs.
- Developed educational resources on kidney diseases, translating complex medical information into accessible content for public audiences.
Private Tutor and Mentor
Self-employed
Remote
08.2017 - 12.2024
- Delivered comprehensive tutoring and mentorship services to high school and elementary students across a diverse range of subjects, encompassing math, science, English, history, reading, and writing.
- Cultivated organizational skills, study habits, and effective time management techniques among students, empowering them to achieve academic success.
- Provided personalized guidance and unwavering support to students encountering academic and personal challenges, fostering their growth and development.
- Mentored multiple tutees who received full ride scholarships to prestigious universities.
Education
BS - Biology
Jacksonville University
Jacksonville, FL11-2023
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Houston Christian University
Houston, TX05-2021
Skills
- Team collaboration and effective communication
- Time management
- Digital polymerase chain reaction
- DNA extraction
- Specimen handling
- Specimen processing
- Laboratory safety protocols
- Reagent preparation
- Equipment maintenance
- Data analysis
- Instrument Calibration
Timeline
Medical Laboratory Scientist III
Florida Department of Health
11.2025 - Current
Biological Scientist II - Molecular
Florida Department of Health
09.2024 - 11.2025
Project Manager
GlomCon Foundation
03.2024 - 11.2025
Private Tutor and Mentor
Self-employed
08.2017 - 12.2024
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Houston Christian University
BS - Biology
Jacksonville University
Awards
Dean's List 2019-2023, Magna Cum Laude