Natalia Czado
League City,TX
Summary
Accomplished Doctoral Researcher, adept in DNA analysis with ten years of laboratory and research experience. Detail-oriented investigator offering exceptional communication and problem-solving skills. A competent leader with proven ability to supervise projects and analyze and present relevant scientific data. Proven track record as an educator, coupled with a strong foundation in instrumentation, positions me as a strong candidate for a field applications scientist position.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
Work History
Crime Scene Investigator
Pearland Police Department
10.2023 - Current
- Conduct thorough documentation of crime scenes and collect relevant evidence using proper techniques to prevent contamination.
- Prepare detailed written reports of investigations, evidence processing, and laboratory submissions.
- Developed the standard operational procedures involved with the submission of unique digital evidence stored on electronic communication devices.
- Conduct customer-facing activities including responding to civilian property inquiries in a timely and professional manner and fulfilling prosecutor’s requests for digital evidence.
Doctoral Student Researcher and Graduate Assistant
Sam Houston State University
08.2020 - 12.2023
- Implemented DNA reference database for cadaveric samples stored at the Southeast Texas Applied Forensic Science (STAFS) Facility.
- Performed internal validation of the HID NIMBUS Presto System and the VeriFiler™ Plus PCR Amplification Kit, examining approximately 400 samples that included bone, saliva, blood, and adhesives.
- Planned, designed, and scheduled phases for large projects while fostering a collaborative environment with fellow researchers.
- Managed multiple projects simultaneously while adhering to strict deadlines, showcasing strong organizational skills and time management abilities.
- Presented research findings at conferences and workshops, raising awareness of relevant issues and promoting knowledge sharing.
- Assisted stakeholders with technical editing of beta-version protocols, providing constructive feedback before publication to minimize errors in published materials.
- Provided mentorship to junior researchers, offering guidance on proper data collection techniques, experimental design principles, and practical laboratory procedures.
- Proficiently solved complex instrument and process issues by effectively troubleshooting and implementing maintenance schedules.
- Developed engaging instructional materials, including presentations, handouts, and interactive activities for various courses and summer workshops.
Adjunct Lecturer
Fayetteville State University
08.2015 - 05.2020
- Collaborated with the Forensic Science Program Director to develop a dynamic, laboratory-focused curriculum.
- Instructed lecture and laboratory courses related to biology, trace evidence, microscopy, professional practices, quality assurance, and scientific communication.
- Adapted lesson plans to accommodate various learning styles of students from diverse backgrounds.
- Served as a research advisor, enabling undergraduate students to develop critical thinking, practical laboratory skills, and effective communication techniques.
- Utilized distance learning technology to instruct students remotely.
DNA Intern
San Diego Police Department
05.2014 - 08.2014
- Acquired proficiency in various molecular biology techniques such as DNA extraction and quantitation, PCR, and capillary electrophoresis.
- Evaluated two DNA amplification kits to assist the laboratory in selecting a product that best aligns with their needs.
- Assisted with the internal validation of the GlobalFiler PCR Amplification Kit on the 3500 Genetic Analyzer.
Education
Ph.D. - Forensic Science
Sam Houston State University
Huntsville, TX12.2024
Master of Science - Forensic Science
Sam Houston State University
Huntsville, TX05.2015
Bachelor of Science - Biological Sciences
North Carolina State University
Raleigh, NC05.2013
Bachelor of Science - Criminology
North Carolina State University
Raleigh, NC05.2013
Skills
- Traditional DNA Analysis
- Human Bone Extraction
- Next Generation Sequencing
- Minisequencing and Sanger Sequencing
- Instrument Maintenance
- Research and Validation
Presentations
- Evolving Forensic DNA Sample Purification for Increased Workflow Efficiencies; Human Identification Solutions (HIDS) conference, May 23, 2023.
- Improving Sample Prep Efficiency and Data Quality of Challenging DNA Samples; Forensic Magazine Webinar in collaboration with Thermo Fisher Scientific, March 23, 2023.
- Evaluation of Metal Ion and DNA Recovery from the Surface of Brass Ammunition to Improve STR Profiling; AFDAA, July 28, 2022.
Peer-Reviewed Publications
- Czado, N., Houston, R., & Hughes, S. (2024). Evaluation of metal ions and DNA recovery from the surface of fired and unfired brass ammunition to improve STR profiling. International Journal of Legal Medicine, 1-8.
- Czado, N., LaRue, B., Wheeler, A., Houston, R., Holmes, A., Grisedale, K., & Hughes, S. (2023). The effectiveness of various strategies to improve DNA analysis of formaldehyde‐damaged tissues from embalmed cadavers for human identification purposes. Journal of Forensic Sciences, 68(2), 596-607.
- Czado, N., Houston, R., & Hughes, S. (2022). Comparison of metal ions recovered during DNA analysis of brass ammunition and effects of copper and zinc ions on DNA profiling. Forensic Science International: Genetics Supplement Series, 8, 162-164.
- Schal, C., Czado, N., Gamble, R., Barrett, A., Weathers, K., & Lodhi, K. M. (2018). Isolation, identification, and time course of human DNA typing from bed bugs, Cimex lectularius. Forensic Science International, 293, 1-6.
- Wheeler, A., Czado, N., Gangitano, D., Turnbough, M., & Hughes-Stamm, S. (2017). Comparison of DNA yield and STR success rates from different tissues in embalmed bodies. International Journal of Legal Medicine, 131, 61-66.
Externally Funded Grants
National Science Foundation, "TARGETED INFUSION PROJECT: Providing Opportunities to Minority Students in STEM (PrOMiSS)", $395,801; July 1, 2017.
Professional Development
- American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors (ASCLD)- ASCLD Leadership Academy, Level 1; April 30- May 1, 2023.
- Boston University- Genealogical Principles Course; Summer 2022.
Accomplishments
- Professional Rookie of the Year, Pearland Police Department - March 2023
- Institute for Forensic Research, Training, and Innovation Scholarship- 2022-2023 Academic Year
Affiliations
- Associate Member of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences
Languages
English
Polish
Instrumentation
- AutoMate Express™ Forensic DNA Extraction System
- HID NIMBUS Presto System
- QIAcube Connect
- EZ1 Advanced XL
- EZ2 Connect
- 7500 Real-Time PCR System
- QuantStudio 5 Real-Time PCR System
- StepOne™ Real-Time PCR System
- Proflex PCR System
- Veriti™ 96-Well Thermal Cycler
- 3500 Genetic Analyzer
- MiSeq FGx Sequencing System
Timeline
Crime Scene Investigator
Pearland Police Department
10.2023 - Current
Doctoral Student Researcher and Graduate Assistant
Sam Houston State University
08.2020 - 12.2023
Adjunct Lecturer
Fayetteville State University
08.2015 - 05.2020
DNA Intern
San Diego Police Department
05.2014 - 08.2014
Ph.D. - Forensic Science
Sam Houston State University
Master of Science - Forensic Science
Sam Houston State University
Bachelor of Science - Biological Sciences
North Carolina State University
Bachelor of Science - Criminology
North Carolina State University
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