Willis Barr
Atalissa,IA
Summary
Professional researcher with strong analytical and statistical expertise, specializing in experimental design and execution. Proven track record of effective collaboration within diverse team environments, with the ability to adapt to evolving project requirements. Proficient in data analysis, literature review, and comprehensive report writing, consistently delivering high-quality results. Recognized for reliability and a results-driven mindset that contributes to project success.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Research Assistant
University of Iowa – Department of Microbiology and Immunology
10.2024 - Current
- Prepare chemical solutions and media following established protocols and safety standards
- Handle and store solid, liquid, and gaseous chemicals and solvents properly
- Complete tasks within designated timeframes; communicate progress and issues as needed
- Assist with onboarding and offboarding lab personnel, including vaccinations, exposure testing, and required safety trainings (radiation, biohazard, lab, fire)
- Maintain accurate laboratory records and databases (equipment, reagents, microbial strains, stocks, animals)
- Manage laboratory supplies and equipment: ordering, receiving, and storage
- Support general laboratory operations and upkeep
- Maintain a clean and organized work area
- Perform experimental procedures in BSL2 laboratories; record, consolidate, and analyze data
- Conduct in vivo infectious disease research using mice infected with Neisseria gonorrhoeae
- Perform blood draws and isolate immune cells from human blood
- Carry out in vitro infectious disease research using human immune cells infected with Neisseria gonorrhoeae
- Present research progress at lab meetings and journal clubs
- Assist in manuscript and grant preparation by organizing data and creating figures, tables, and images
- Proficient in general microbiological techniques: bacterial culture, storage, safe handling, and sterile technique
- Skilled in molecular biology methods: PCR, DNA purification, agarose gel electrophoresis, restriction enzyme analysis, and western blotting
- Experienced in immunological techniques: ELISA, flow cytometry, and immunofluorescence microscopy
- Capable of generating and characterizing bacterial mutants
- Familiar with BSL2 laboratory protocols and safety standards
- Previous experience with phlebotomy and isolation of immune cells from human blood
- Competent in handling mice, including intraperitoneal (IP) and subcutaneous (SC) injections, and conducting in vivo experiments
- Experience as a laboratory technician and manager
- Maintained laboratory equipment, ensuring optimal performance and compliance with safety standards.
- Documented experimental results accurately, contributing to comprehensive research reports.
- Trained new staff on laboratory techniques and safety procedures to enhance team productivity.
- Implemented process improvements that increased data accuracy and reduced turnaround time for experiments.
- Oversaw inventory management, ensuring timely procurement of materials for ongoing research projects.
- Evaluated emerging trends in scientific research methodologies to identify potential areas of improvement within current lab practices.
- Maintained a clean and safe laboratory environment, adhering to strict safety guidelines and regulations.
- Utilized advanced analytical techniques such as PCR, ELISA, and HPLC for accurate data collection in various research projects.
- Performed routine equipment maintenance, guaranteeing consistent performance during critical experiments.
- Managed inventory of lab supplies, ensuring all necessary materials were readily available for experiments.
- Contributed to the successful completion of multiple research projects by providing timely and accurate testing results.
- Presented ongoing progress reports at weekly lab meetings keeping all team members informed on the status of various projects.
- Conducted thorough literature reviews to support hypothesis development and inform experimental design decisions.
- Handled sensitive biological samples with care, ensuring integrity throughout each stage of experimentation.
- Assisted in the preparation of reports and presentations for conferences, showcasing significant research findings.
- Provided training and mentorship for new lab members, fostering a supportive work atmosphere.
- Assisted in laboratory budget planning by providing cost analysis for consumables and equipment, promoting responsible resource allocation.
- Analyzed results using analytical software and created reports.
- Troubleshot and resolved equipment and process issues.
- Prepared reagents and solutions following standard laboratory formulas and procedures.
- Developed presentations and reports summarizing research findings for academic conferences and publications.
- Utilized advanced statistical software to analyze large datasets, uncovering key insights for informed decision making.
- Assisted in manuscript preparation, contributing to the publication of influential articles in peer-reviewed journals.
- Managed multiple research projects simultaneously, ensuring timely completion and adherence to high-quality standards.
- Contributed to professionally-written scientific paper for publication.
- Mentored undergraduate students, providing guidance on research methodologies and techniques.
- Presented research findings at conferences and workshops, fostering professional growth and collaboration within the academic community.
- Reviewed technical and professional publications and journals to stay current on recent literature and make more strategic research decisions.
- Followed health and safety regulations while handling dangerous or toxic substances.
- Collected blood samples efficiently while adhering to safety protocols and maintaining patient comfort.
- Enhanced patient comfort during blood draws by employing effective communication and gentle techniques.
- Collected blood samples using established protocols and techniques.
- Trained new staff on phlebotomy procedures and safety standards.
- Completed proper sanitation and cleaning of equipment and work areas between patients.
- Demonstrated adaptability by effectively performing blood draws on diverse patient populations.
- Ensured uninterrupted service by properly maintaining phlebotomy equipment, including centrifuges, needles, and tourniquets.
- Identified veins suitable for venipuncture with precision, minimizing discomfort for patients.
Research Assistant
University of Iowa Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, Tissue Procurement
07.2023 - 10.2024
- Create, populate, maintain, and enhance multiple databases containing clinical and research information obtained through the review of patient charts and samples, lab reports and other related information in a manner that complies with IRB requirements and research needs.
- Consult with translational staff and researchers in development of data management plan.
- Assist in the development of electronic data capture forms to facilitate abstraction of required data for assigned projects.
- Assist in judging validity of data.
- Assist in coordinating collection and processing of biospecimens as needed, including communication with internal and external labs.
- Assist in the design, development, and execution and specimen processes for protocols and clinical studies.
- Assist in the preparation of data summaries and other information for use by faculty and staff in preparation for reports, publications or presentations.
- Conduct, and monitor patient informed consent to ensure compliance with Institutional Review Board (IRB) regulations.
- Meet one-on-one with patients to complete consent process.
- Participate in determination of patient eligibility for participation in translational studies.
- Monitor consent flow and provide regular updates to relevant staff including clinic, intake, physicians/providers, specimen procurement and research team members.
- Collect and enter required subject enrollment and screening data in required data collection tools including EPIC and Labmatrix.
- Work within the lab to manage projects such as ORIEN
- Performs additional task, special functions and/or special projects as assigned.
- Conducted data entry and verification for accuracy and compliance with regulatory standards.
- Supported the preparation of study documentation, including protocols and informed consent forms.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to ensure adherence to timelines and project milestones.
- Trained new staff on clinical research protocols and standard operating procedures.
- Implemented process improvements that enhanced data collection efficiency by streamlining workflows.
- Participated in site monitoring visits, addressing any concerns or discrepancies related to patient enrollment or data collection procedures.
- Facilitated efficient organization of study-related documents through meticulous record-keeping practices.
- Educated patients regarding all facets of clinical study participation.
- Conducted literature reviews to inform study designs and enhance understanding of current trends in clinical research.
- Assisted with research protocol development.
- Managed updates and input for patient information database.
- Expedited study progress by overseeing timely completion and submission of required documents, forms, and reports in accordance with regulatory guidelines.
- Coordinated with multidisciplinary teams to facilitate smooth communication between researchers, clinicians, and support staff.
- Managed study databases, ensuring accurate data entry, storage, and retrieval for analysis purposes.
- Provided training to new team members on proper procedures for data collection, documentation, and reporting in clinical trials.
- Gathered, processed, and shipped lab specimens.
- Followed informed consent processes and maintained records.
- Prepared and maintained regulatory documents for clinical trial submissions.
- Participated in initiation visits and investigator meetings, implementing trials following study timelines and budgets.
- Answered telephone calls to offer office information, answer questions, and direct calls to staff.
- Oriented and trained new staff on proper procedures and policies.
- Explained procedures to patients to reduce anxieties and increase patient cooperation.
- Collaborated with medical and administrative personnel to maintain patient-focused, engaging, and compassionate environment.
- Prepared lab specimens for diagnostic evaluation.
Quality Assurance Lab Technician
West Liberty Foods
05.2022 - 06.2023
- Perform Microbiological testing, recording, and reporting.
- Work independently at times and as a team to complete projects.
- Cleaning and restocking.
- Calibrate and maintain lab equipment.
- Performed quality testing on raw materials, sponge samples, and ready-to-eat samples depending.
- Performed a variety of testing types including PCR, plating for different pathogenic and non-pathogenic organisms, gravimetric bone analysis, and FOSS.
- Prepared and maintained a variety of media including Buffered Peptone Water, Man, Rogosa and Sharpe, and Listeria Enrichment Broth in a controlled and sterile environment.
- Operated and maintained a variety of lab equipment including autoclave, pipettors, PCR machine, water baths, and dispensers for media preparation.
- Conducted routine quality inspections to ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards.
- Developed and maintained documentation for testing procedures and quality control processes.
- Trained junior technicians on proper testing methods and safety protocols.
- Monitored lab equipment performance, ensuring calibration and maintenance for optimal functionality.
- Completed recordkeeping, filing and data entry duties.
- Performed routine preventive maintenance on equipment parts and materials.
- Performed technical and quality systems audits of laboratory.
- Diagnosed and reported malfunctions of technical equipment.
- Contributed to continuous improvement initiatives by identifying areas for process optimization in the lab.
- Maintained a safe work environment by ensuring adherence to safety protocols and proper handling of hazardous materials.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of industry trends, regulatory requirements, and best practices in quality assurance to continuously improve lab performance.
- Reduced production time by streamlining sample preparation processes for faster testing.
- Increased accuracy in test results through regular calibration and maintenance of laboratory equipment.
- Trained new team members on laboratory procedures, ensuring consistency in testing methods across the team.
- Ensured reliable test data by conducting method validation studies as per regulatory requirements.
- Ensured consistent product quality through routine monitoring of raw materials, intermediate products, and finished goods against established specifications.
- Supported new product development efforts through accurate and timely testing of prototypes, providing valuable feedback for design changes.
- Reduced waste by implementing inventory management strategies to optimize usage of lab supplies and chemicals.
- Documented all test results, observations, and deviations according to established protocols for traceability purposes.
- Improved product quality by conducting thorough laboratory tests and analyzing results.
- Inspected raw materials and finished products to verify quality and disposed items that did not meet safety requirements.
- Reviewed production processes and identified potential quality issues.
- Completed supporting documentation for testing procedures, data capture forms, equipment logbooks and inventory forms.
- Conducted investigations into questionable test results.
- Liaised between quality control and other departments and contractors, providing project updates and consultation.
Undergraduate Research
University of Iowa Department of Microbiology and Immunology
09.2021 - 09.2022
- Experienced in BSL-2.
- Performed Real-Time PCR.
- Isolate and maintain viral stocks.
- Virus production and expansion.
- Experience with Influenza A virus.
- Performed plaque assays.
- Designed and constructed plasmids.
- DNA extraction.
- Tissue culture for mammalian cell lines.
- Presented research findings at academic conferences, increasing visibility of the university''s undergraduate research program.
- Presented research findings at university events, showcasing the value of undergraduate research efforts.
- Conducted literature reviews to support research initiatives and identify knowledge gaps.
- Assisted in designing experiments, ensuring alignment with project objectives and methodologies.
- Collaborated with team members to develop innovative solutions to complex research challenges.
- Led discussions on project progress, fostering collaboration and accountability among team members.
- Demonstrated exceptional time management skills while balancing multiple tasks including coursework, part-time employment, extracurricular activities alongside research responsibilities.
- Built strong relationships with faculty advisors through regular meetings to discuss project goals, challenges faced, and potential solutions.
- Increased overall understanding of research methodologies by designing and executing various experiments.
- Participated in regular meetings to discuss aspects of research and experiments.
- Gained proficiency in a variety of laboratory techniques, increasing overall productivity and versatility within the lab setting.
- Prepared samples for analysis by performing complex sample preparation tasks.
- Adhered to laboratory safety procedures to maintain compliance with quality control standards.
- Prepared reagents and solutions following standard laboratory formulas and procedures.
- Assisted scientists by collecting and organizing laboratory data.
- Participated in research projects by designing and executing experiments.
Forklift Operator
United Natural Foods Inc
06.2013 - 10.2018
- Maintained a safe work environment following safety policies and procedures.
- Member of the safety committee.
- Kept accurate inventory records.
- Scan orders.
- Cross-Trained in multiple areas and duties including Dock, Freezer, Cooler, General Warehouse.
- Operated forklifts to efficiently move products within warehouse environment.
- Conducted routine safety checks on equipment to ensure compliance with company standards.
- Trained new staff on safe forklift operation and best practices for handling materials.
- Collaborated with team members to optimize loading and unloading processes, enhancing workflow efficiency.
- Monitored inventory levels and assisted in maintaining accurate stock records using warehouse management system.
- Assisted in troubleshooting equipment issues, minimizing downtime through prompt reporting and maintenance coordination.
- Safely loaded and unloaded trucks using appropriate forklift attachments, reducing the risk of accidents or injuries.
- Kept warehouse clean and organized by removing debris and returning unused pallets to designated areas.
- Wrapped pallets in plastic wrap and attached merchandise tags to prepare for shipping.
- Transported goods between warehouse locations according to shipment and storage needs.
- Demonstrated versatility in operating various types of forklifts, including sit-down, stand-up, and reach varieties, to accommodate different warehouse layouts and requirements.
- Reduced loading times for shipping trucks by efficiently organizing and staging pallets.
- Ensured timely delivery of products by accurately picking orders from storage areas.
- Kept accurate records of materials moved within warehouse to quickly locate inventory and keep facility operating smoothly.
- Streamlined order processing by accurately updating inventory management software.
- Supported inventory accuracy, assisting in periodic stock counts and audits.
- Assessed equipment for damage, wear, battery life, and fluid levels.
General Manager
Kentucky Fried Chicken
09.2010 - 06.2013
- Training Staff to follow company procedures.
- Maintaining safety and food quality standards
- Certified Professional Food Safety Manager
- Payroll
- Scheduling
- Conducted Interviews, oversaw the hiring process, and ran a staff of 12+ employees.
- Coached employees to boost confidence and correct inaccurate procedures.
- Optimize profits by controlling food, beverage, and labor costs.
- Oversaw daily operations to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
- Developed and implemented training programs for staff to enhance service efficiency.
- Managed inventory control processes, optimizing supply chain management systems.
- Analyzed sales data to identify trends and drive menu optimization strategies.
- Established performance metrics and conducted regular evaluations of team effectiveness.
- Fostered a positive work environment through effective communication and conflict resolution strategies.
- Reduced food waste through better inventory management and portion control, leading to increased profitability.
- Maintained open lines of communication between front-of-house and back-of-house staff, ensuring seamless coordination for optimal service delivery.
- Managed financial aspects of the business including budgeting, forecasting, cost analysis, and profit maximization strategies.
- Created a positive dining atmosphere by maintaining high standards of cleanliness and organization throughout the establishment.
- Optimized scheduling practices for efficient staffing levels during peak hours, reducing labor costs without sacrificing service quality.
- Ensured compliance with health and safety regulations through regular inspections, staff training, and process improvements.
- Controlled labor hours and inventory costs through hands-on management and proactive changes.
- Reviewed and approved employee schedules and timesheets.
- Trained and supervised new staff to enhance customer service skills and comply with food safety standards.
- Prepared weekly schedules and assigned tasks to staff to maintain organized shift and smooth operations.
- Oversaw balancing of cash registers, reconciled transactions, and deposited establishment's earnings to bank.
- Tracked food production levels, meal counts, and supply costs.
- Handled escalated customer concerns with speed and knowledgeable support to achieve optimal satisfaction and maintain long-term loyalty.
- Kept facility compliant with health codes, sanitation requirements and license regulations, alleviating potentially heavy fines.
- Enhanced financial controls to minimize theft and loss risks, continuously maintaining accurate accounts and cash drawers.
- Monitored and adjusted pricing, discounts and promotions to maximize profitability.
- Maximized quality assurance by completing frequent line checks.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Microbiology
University of Iowa
Iowa City, IA05-2027
Associate of Science - Liberal Arts And Sciences
Kirkwood Community College
Iowa City, IA05.2021
Skills
- Detail-oriented approach
- Prioritization and scheduling
- Effective organizational skills
- Team leadership
- Aseptic Technique
- Cell Culture
- RT-PCR
- Skilled in MS Office applications
- Western Blots
- Electrophoresis
- ELISA
- Gram Staining
- Serial Dilutions
- Cell Counting
- Employee training
- Vendor Coordination
- Inventor and Supply
- Customer Service
- Labmatrix proficiency
- Proficient in EPIC software
- Nanodrop
- Shipping
- Slide Cutting
- PBMC
- RNA & DNA Extraction
- Phlebotomy
- IRB compliance
- Research design
- Specimen preparation
- Database searches
- Research project design
- Project planning
- Creating presentations
- Database research
- Technical writing
- Clinical research
- Statistical analysis
- Multitasking and organization
- Time management
- Regulatory compliance documentation
- Staff training and mentorship
- Data analysis and reporting
Accomplishments
- Delivered poster presentation on Neisseria Gonorrhea at American Society of Microbiology Northern Branch in 2025.
- Presented research on Neisseria Gonorrhea at Autumn Immunology Conference 11/21/25.
- Educated 15+ undergraduate students on clinical good practices and laboratory techniques
- Established a new laboratory environment for a newly appointed Principal Investigator in a brand-new research space at the University. Successfully troubleshot protocols and experiments to integrate and optimize workflows for newly installed equipment, improving operational efficiency and research throughput.
Certification
- Advarra EREG 130 Standard Operating Procedures
- Advarra EREG 1400 Regulatory Coordinator Curriculum
- Human Research - Group 1 - Biomedical - IRB-01 (ID 917)
- Good Clinical Practice Course for Clinical Trials Involving Drugs - GCP Course for Clinical Trials Involving Investigational Drugs (International/ICH Focus) (ID 57320)
- Good Clinical Practice Course (US FDA Focus) (ID 57322)
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
Research Assistant
University of Iowa – Department of Microbiology and Immunology
10.2024 - Current
Research Assistant
University of Iowa Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, Tissue Procurement
07.2023 - 10.2024
Quality Assurance Lab Technician
West Liberty Foods
05.2022 - 06.2023
Undergraduate Research
University of Iowa Department of Microbiology and Immunology
09.2021 - 09.2022
Forklift Operator
United Natural Foods Inc
06.2013 - 10.2018
General Manager
Kentucky Fried Chicken
09.2010 - 06.2013
Bachelor of Science - Microbiology
University of Iowa
Associate of Science - Liberal Arts And Sciences
Kirkwood Community College