Wilma Pixler
London,UK
Summary
Dynamic professional with extensive experience in biological specimen collection and processing at American Red Cross. Proven expertise in PCR testing and quality assurance, complemented by strong leadership and training abilities. Adept at maintaining compliance with regulatory standards while enhancing operational efficiency and fostering positive relationships with healthcare teams.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
Work History
Coordinator Support Associate
Birth Tissue Recovery
Charlotte, USA
05.2023 - 08.2023
- Perform tasks overseen and/or regulated by the AATB, FDA, and applicable state and federal agencies
- Perform hands-on aseptic placenta tissue acquisition procedures including, when applicable, being present in the operating room, interacting with OR staff, accepting freshly delivered placenta
- Obtain blood specimens from hospital staff, document and maintain chain-of-custody
- Compliance with company SOPs and training related to the identification of potential donors, obtaining informed consent and related documentation, performing tissue acquisition/collection procedures, and maintaining hospital relations
- Label, package, and ship tissue and lab specimens
- Review records/forms for completion and accuracy
Technical Assistant
Novant Health
Charlotte, USA
05.2023 - 08.2023
- Perform data entry and operate computer programs associated with patient specimens
- Correspond with RNs and Physicians to problem solve when needed
- Maintain department quality assurance and documentation for all lab procedures
- Perform order entry of specimens received to meet established turn-around-times
- Assist in maintaining storage requirements of all specimens within department
MSc: Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases and Antimicrobial Resistance Lab Work
University of Glasgow
Glasgow, UK
03.2022 - 08.2023
- Conducted advanced research in Dr. Martin Llewellyn's laboratory, focusing on infectious pathogens
- Gained hands-on experience with pathogen handling, PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction), and gel electrophoresis
- Performed precise preparation of PCR reaction volumes, including the calculation and combination of reagents for pathogen detection and genetic analysis
- Operated and maintained various laboratory instruments, including thermocyclers, centrifuges, and gel electrophoresis equipment, ensuring accuracy and reliability in test results
- Collaborated remotely with the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) to test and analyze samples, enhancing skills in molecular biology and epidemiology
- Contributed to cutting-edge research projects aimed at advancing the understanding of disease transmission and resistance patterns
3rd Shift Assistant Laboratory Supervisor
Atrium Health
Charlotte, USA
09.2017 - 02.2021
- Correspond with employees, RNs, and physicians to problem solve when needed
- Communicate to manager any deficiencies, personnel actions, or unusual occurrences that may require immediate attention
- Evaluate employee skills and knowledge regularly, training and mentoring individuals with lagging skills.
- Maintain clean and well-organized production areas to avoid violations or unnecessary work delays due to hazards or inefficient layouts.
- Track and trend pending logs and inventory management
- Cooperate with other supervisors to benefit total laboratory
Manufacturing Technician II
American Red Cross
Charlotte, USA
10.2016 - 12.2017
- Manage, store, and distribute blood products/samples
- Meet quality and quantity production and distribution goals established
- Operate, maintain, and perform quality control checks on equipment and ensure adequate inventory of required supplies
- Perform data entry and operate computer programs associated with component production, labeling, storage, and shipping
- Maintain accurate, legible, and complete manufacturing department records
- Perform quarantine and disposition of unacceptable products/samples
Lead Laboratory Assistant
American Red Cross
Charlotte, USA
05.2013 - 10.2016
- Assist in supervising of Sample Management staff and schedule placement for all 3rd shift Sample Management Lab Assistants
- Provide leadership and guidance to lab staff in supervisor's absence while assuming responsibilities for supervisor as required
- Training of new and incumbent staff in all processes and procedures
- Identify discrepancies and verify documentation performed by staff
- Demonstrate knowledge of all procedures performed in department
- Comply with ARCBS policies, procedures, and directives
- Perform all duties and responsibilities in compliance with standard operating procedures, GMP and GLP guidelines, Code of Federal Regulations, and other applicable federal, state, and local laws
Education
Bachelor of Science - Public Health
University of North Carolina At Greensboro
Master of Science (with merit) - Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases & Antimicrobial Resistance
University of Glasgow
Skills
- Biological Specimen/Tissue Collection and Processing
- PCR Testing
- Gel Electrophoresis
- Lab Equipment Maintenance & Operation
- Quality Assurance & Compliance
- Data Management & Documentation
- Inventory & Supply Management
- Training & Leadership
- Customer Relations
- Medical Terminology
- EMR/EHR Systems
- R Software
- MS Office
Timeline
Coordinator Support Associate
Birth Tissue Recovery
05.2023 - 08.2023
Technical Assistant
Novant Health
05.2023 - 08.2023
MSc: Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases and Antimicrobial Resistance Lab Work
University of Glasgow
03.2022 - 08.2023
3rd Shift Assistant Laboratory Supervisor
Atrium Health
09.2017 - 02.2021
Manufacturing Technician II
American Red Cross
10.2016 - 12.2017
Lead Laboratory Assistant
American Red Cross
05.2013 - 10.2016
Bachelor of Science - Public Health
University of North Carolina At Greensboro
Master of Science (with merit) - Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases & Antimicrobial Resistance
University of Glasgow