Charissa Le
Worcester
Summary
Research Associate with a strong focus on tissue processing, advanced histopathology, and light and fluorescence microscopy. Collaborates effectively with research teams to design experiments, analyze data, and uphold safety and quality protocols. Maintains lab operations and implements quality control measures to enhance research support.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Research Associate I
UMass Chan Medical School
Worcester
10.2022 - Current
- Microscopy & Imaging: Operate light and fluorescence microscopes to analyze and capture high-quality images of tissue samples.
- Data Analysis & Documentation: Supported data collection, quantified images, performed statistical analysis, and contributed to reports and publications.
- Collaboration & Research Support: Collaborated with research teams on experimental design and data interpretation, ensuring adherence to quality control and safety protocols.
- Sample Preparation & Staining: Process and prepare tissue samples through fixation, embedding, sectioning, and staining for microscopic analysis.
- Lab Maintenance & Inventory: Maintained equipment, troubleshot issues, and managed inventory of reagents and supplies to ensure operational efficiency.
Manufacturing Lab Technician
PerkinElmer
Hopkinton
10.2021 - 09.2022
- Microfluidic Chip Fabrication: Manufacture high-volume LabChip electrophoresis devices (e.g., DNA, RNA, and Protein chips) in a cleanroom laboratory environment.
- Production & Inspection: Performed lot card corrections, component inspections using microscopes and Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMM), and microfluidic insertion with precision instruments; tracked defects through data entry onto spreadsheets.
- Process Development & Operations: Utilize various machines for automated processes (e.g., glue dispensers, labelers) and perform tasks like lithography, wet benches, epoxy dispensing, UV curing, and substrate bonding.
- Safety & Compliance: Followed cleanroom safety protocols and adhered to Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) to maintain a safe production environment.
- Lab Maintenance: Oversaw upkeep and troubleshooting of lab equipment, ensured smooth operations through instrument calibration, and tracked inventory levels of reagents and supplies while maintaining detailed log sheets for timely restocking.
Education
Bachelor of Biological Sciences - Public Health, Minor Psychology
Worcester State University
Worcester, MA12-2020
Skills
- Tissue processing, embedding, and preparation for histological evaluation
- Advanced histopathology and immunohistochemistry techniques
- Skilled in light and fluorescence microscopy
- Competent in handling and maintenance of laboratory instrumentation and equipment
- Implementation of quality control and assurance procedures
- Familiarity with diverse testing methodologies and validation protocols
- Data collection, statistical evaluation, and results interpretation
- Laboratory workflow coordination and management
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking abilities
- Proficient in Microsoft Word and Excel for documentation and data management
- Experienced with Leica Biosystems Fully Automated IHC Stainer, Leica Cryostat, Leica Microtome, and Sakura Tissue‑Tek systems
- Working knowledge of ServiceNow for process tracking and reporting
Languages
English
Native/ Bilingual
Vietnamese
Native/ Bilingual
Spanish
Limited
Timeline
Research Associate I
UMass Chan Medical School
10.2022 - Current
Manufacturing Lab Technician
PerkinElmer
10.2021 - 09.2022
Bachelor of Biological Sciences - Public Health, Minor Psychology
Worcester State University