Sarah Lopez
San Antonio,TX
Summary
Detail-oriented Biorepository Research Assistant with strong proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, enhancing attention to detail and computer literacy while fostering a foundational understanding of PDX and various cancer models. Committed to refining systems to boost efficiency and success within the department and organization. Skilled in aseptic techniques supports effective work in wet labs, while adeptness in delegation and communication with management ensures timely completion of processes and projects in an organized manner. Passionate about contributing to innovative research initiatives that drive advancements in cancer treatment.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Collaborations Coodinator Interim
XenoSTART
San Antonio, TX
11.2025 - Current
- Responsible for organizing and maintaining or the annotation of all XPDX models including but not limited to tissue confirmation, receptor expression, genomic and transcriptomic characterization, and relevant in vivo data.
- Interacts with collaborators and coordinates all tissue and data requests.
- Attends and participates in regular leadership meetings and briefings as required.
- Aseptically handles and processes viable and non-viable tissue samples for various testing and/or shipment to collaborators and sponsors.
- Acts as client liaison for sponsors and collaborators interested in model licensing, cell line generation, and/or evaluation for internal study interest.
- Maintains and continuously updates internal sample inventories to accurately monitor and track sample stock and availability (physical samples and macro-enabled Excel documents).
Performs other duties as assigned - Implemented process improvements that increased team productivity and effectiveness in project execution.
- Mentored junior staff, promoting professional development and knowledge sharing within the team.
- Led initiative to optimize resource allocation across multiple projects, improving overall workflow efficiency.
- Improved team productivity with regular communication and progress updates, fostering a collaborative work environment.
- Coordinated cross-functional teams, resulting in seamless project execution and enhanced outcomes.
Trainer
XenoSTART
San Antonio, TX
06.2024 - Current
- Developed and delivered training programs to enhance employee skills and knowledge.
- Facilitated workshops on industry best practices to improve team performance.
- Collaborated with management to identify training needs and align programs with organizational goals.
- Evaluated training effectiveness through feedback and assessments, ensuring continuous improvement.
- Mentored new trainers, providing guidance on content delivery and engagement techniques.
- Implemented innovative training methods utilizing technology to engage diverse learning styles.
- Mentored new hires, resulting in stronger staff development and increased productivity.
- Provided one-on-one mentoring to help individuals reach their full potential within the organization.
- Collaborated with subject matter experts to create accurate training content.
- Conducted comprehensive needs assessments to identify gaps in knowledge and skills, informing future program development.
Biorepository Research Assistant
XenoSTART
San Antonio, TX
02.2024 - Current
- Manage, organize, and track clinical and preclinical samples, maintaining accurate logs for sample status, consents, collections, and related data.
- Prepare and process blood, serum, and sponsor-related samples with precision following specific protocol requirements.
- Coordinate internal and external sample shipments, including documentation, packaging, and logistics.
- Support pathology operations (FFPE, IHC, TMA prep, slide imaging), collaborating with related departments as needed.
- Perform environmental monitoring and pathogen testing preparation.
- Implement improved systems for sample compliance and management.
- Conduct daily sanitation of lab equipment, including -80C freezers and centrifuges.
- Assist with model selection and preparation for requested TMA and MTAS projects.
- Prepare vials for long-term storage of samples for both internal studies and external sponsor requests.
- Read and interpret charts and data templates to ensure all samples are labeled and stored properly.
- Develop temporary workflow solutions and actively contribute to team-driven improvements.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to streamline data collection processes and enhance research efficiency.
- Participated actively in regular meetings with fellow researchers to discuss project updates, challenges faced, and lessons learned during ongoing activities.
- Managed laboratory equipment and resources, ensuring proper maintenance and optimal functionality.
- Managed research databases with utmost diligence, ensuring data integrity and security.
- Contributed to a positive work environment through strong teamwork, effective communication, and consistent professionalism under pressure.
- Maintained a sterile and organized workspace to ensure proper infection control measures were met.
Math Tutor
Private Tutor
San Antonio, TX
08.2021 - Current
- Created personalized lesson plans tailored to students' needs in various areas of mathematics.
- Utilized multiple techniques to simplify complex topics and assigned additional practice as needed.
- Maintained communication with parents regarding student progress and achievements.
Private Nanny & Dog Care Provider
Personal Care Provider
San Antonio, TX
06.2018 - Current
- Managed daily routines for children, including education, meals, activities, and safety checks.
- Supported behavioral and developmental goals in partnership with parents.
- Provided care for dogs, including exercise, medication administration, enrichment, and routine updates for owners.
Co-Author/Presenter
University of the Incarnate Word- College of Science
San Antonio, TX
08.2022 - 11.2022
- Engineered CHK1 pathway to promote cell proliferation under UVA exposure.
- Presented research to faculty and school leadership, communicating the significance and results with clarity and professionalism.
Career Services Assistant
University of the Incarnate Word
San Antonio, TX
08.2019 - 05.2021
- Maintained student and alumni records, coordinated appointments, and assisted with event logistics.
- Designed flyers promoting internships, scholarships, and professional opportunities.
- Provided front-desk service and general information regarding department offers.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Biology
University of The Incarnate
San Antonio, TX05-2023
Skills
- Cryogenic Equipment Operation & Safety Protocols
- Murine Sample Processing: Blood, Plasma, Serum, RNA, FFPE
- Laboratory Procedures: Aseptic Technique, Sample Splitting
- Data Entry & Reporting for Clinical and Preclinical Studies
- Proficient in Microsoft 365 Suite (Excel, Outlook, Word, Teams)
- Laboratory Equipment Maintenance: Pipettes, Centrifuges, Freezers, Dewars
- Interdepartmental Coordination & Customer Service
- Documentation for Regulatory and Sponsor Requirements
- Basic Medical Terminology & Biological Research Methods
- Reading and interpreting charts and data templates to ensure proper sample labeling and storage
- Preparation of vials for long-term storage for both internal and external sponsor requests
- Time management
- Problem-solving
Timeline
Collaborations Coodinator Interim
XenoSTART
11.2025 - Current
Trainer
XenoSTART
06.2024 - Current
Biorepository Research Assistant
XenoSTART
02.2024 - Current
Co-Author/Presenter
University of the Incarnate Word- College of Science
08.2022 - 11.2022
Math Tutor
Private Tutor
08.2021 - Current
Career Services Assistant
University of the Incarnate Word
08.2019 - 05.2021
Private Nanny & Dog Care Provider
Personal Care Provider
06.2018 - Current
Bachelor of Science - Biology
University of The Incarnate