Vanessa Penaloza
San Antonio,TX
Summary
Detail-oriented Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) professional with hands-on clinical and professional laboratory experience in high-volume healthcare settings. Experienced in laboratory testing, quality control, specimen analysis, and transfusion services, with a strong commitment to accuracy, patient safety, and regulatory compliance.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Blood Bank Scientist
University Health
San Antonio, TX
06.2026 - 09.2026
- Performed pre-transfusion testing including ABO/Rh typing, antibody screening, crossmatching, and compatibility testing.
- Prepared and issued blood components according to transfusion service procedures.
- Assisted with antibody investigations and serologic problem-solving.
- Performed testing and documentation using established quality control and regulatory procedures.
- Supported routine and emergency transfusion service operations in a high-volume hospital environment.
- Performed complex troubleshooting and assisted in leading initiatives to solve challenging scientific problems with assays or instrumentation.
Medical Lab Technician I
University Health System
San Antonio, TX
04.2024 - 08.2024
- Performed routine and STAT laboratory testing on patient specimens including blood, urine, and other body fluids in hematology, urinalysis, chemistry, and immunoassay.
- Collected, labeled, and processed specimens in accordance with clinical protocols and specimen integrity standards.
- Operated, calibrated, and maintained laboratory equipment such as automated analyzers, centrifuges, and microscopes.
- Performed and documented quality control (QC) procedures and participated in proficiency testing to ensure accuracy and compliance with CLIA and laboratory regulations.
- Verified and reported test results using LIS/EMR systems with attention to critical values and turnaround times.
- Assisted with specimen send-outs to reference laboratories and ensure proper handling and documentation.
- Conducted laboratory tests to analyze specimens and ensure accurate results.
Blood and Tissue Manufacturing Technician
BioBridge Global
San Antonio, TX
03.2020 - 04.2024
- Performed laboratory testing through performance of high complexity, routine, and special laboratory procedures.
- Performed cord blood and birth tissue accessioning, testing, processing, and maintaining quality control records within compliance.
- Processing, analytical testing, packaging and labeling of cord blood product, associated cord blood samples.
- Coordinated activities of the laboratory to determine priorities regarding processing of units and testing as needed.
- Utilized the data management system to include Excel, Word, and MAC.
- Conducted routine maintenance and troubleshooting on machinery to ensure optimal performance.
Chemical Technician I
Intertek
01.2018 - 01.2020
- Prepared and performed sample collection, cleaning of glassware and test equipment. Maintained sample system, including storage and disposal.
- Filled work order for internal customers.
- Maintained cleanliness of sample storage and general lab.
- Carried out daily storage and disposal of hazardous material.
- Conducted laboratory tests and analyses to ensure compliance with safety standards and regulations.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Medical Laboratory Science
The University of Texas Health Science Center At San Antonio
San Antonio, TX05-2026
Associate of Science - Chemistry
Northwest Vista College
San Antonio, TX01-2019
Skills
- Broad knowledge of blood and tissue laboratory operating procedures
- Good understanding of laboratory equipment and the maintenance of various chemicals
- Strong communication and organizational skills
- Critical thinking and problem-solving
- Knowledge of safety operations guidelines of handling chemicals and laboratory maintenance
- Time management in high-volume lab settings
Timeline
Blood Bank Scientist
University Health
06.2026 - 09.2026
Medical Lab Technician I
University Health System
04.2024 - 08.2024
Blood and Tissue Manufacturing Technician
BioBridge Global
03.2020 - 04.2024
Chemical Technician I
Intertek
01.2018 - 01.2020
Bachelor of Science - Medical Laboratory Science
The University of Texas Health Science Center At San Antonio
Associate of Science - Chemistry
Northwest Vista College
STUDENT LABORATORY EXPERIENCE
- Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) Program – UT Health Science Center San Antonio, San Antonio, TX Aug 2024 - Present
- Immunohematology
- Performed ABO/Rh typing, antibody screening, and compatibility testing
- Conducted Direct Antiglobulin Tests (DAT) and antibody identification panels
- Applied transfusion safety protocols and patient identification procedures
- Interpreted results in cases of hemolytic disease, transfusion reactions, and autoantibodies
- Followed AABB standards and blood bank safety practices
- Microbiology
- Performed culture and isolation techniques using Blood Agar, Chocolate Agar, and MacConkey Agar
- Conducted Gram stains and microscopic evaluation for organism identification
- Differentiated Gram-positive vs Gram-negative bacteria based on morphology and growth characteristics
- Performed biochemical testing (e.g., catalase, oxidase, carbohydrate utilization) for organism identification
- Practiced aseptic technique, specimen handling, and biosafety procedures (BSL-2 awareness)
- Clinical Chemistry
- Analyzed specimens using spectrophotometric and enzymatic methods
- Performed testing for glucose, BUN, creatinine, liver enzymes, and electrolytes
- Followed quality control (QC) procedures, including calibration verification and result validation
- Interpreted patient results in relation to reference ranges and clinical significance
- Applied CLIA-regulated laboratory practices and documentation standards
- Hematology
- Performed CBC analysis and manual differentials
- Identified normal and abnormal RBC, WBC, and platelet morphology on peripheral blood smears
- Conducted hemoglobin, hematocrit, ESR, and coagulation screening tests (PT/aPTT)
- Correlated CBC and smear findings with possible hematologic disorders
- Practiced proper specimen collection, handling, and rejection criteria
- Immunology / Serology
- Performed antigen-antibody based testing including latex agglutination and ELISA-based methods
- Interpreted qualitative and quantitative serologic results
- Applied principles of immune response, sensitivity, specificity, and cross-reactivity
- Maintained QC documentation and followed standard operating procedures (SOPs)