Alex Schmidt Email and Phone Number

Assisted customers in automating next-generation sequencing kits on a wide variety of platforms, including Tecan Fluent, Perkin Elmer Zephyr and Sciclone, Beckman Coulter Biomek, and Agilent Bravo.

Processed human samples with the goal of sequencing polio or other enteroviruses found within them. Includes viral extraction, human and mouse cell culture, cDNA library preparation, and next-generation sequencing using both Illumina MiSeq and Ion Torrent PGM platforms.

Designed, implemented, and validated a clinical SNP genotyping laboratory.Saw the genetics lab through CAP accreditation, inspection, and proficiency testing.Trained on the Ion Torrent PGM next-generation sequencing platform.Designed a sequencing assay for all exons of BRCA1, BRCA2, and PALB2.Learned the theory behind LC/MS and certified LC/MS urine drug test results for release.Sample preparation of human body fluids for LC/MS testing.

Providing lessons to students K-12 in all areas of science and mathematics, as well as standardized test preparation

Isolated RNA from S. pyogenes via ultracentrifugation on a cesium chloride gradient and compared transcription rates of various mRNAs with realtime RT-PCR. Modified untranslated regions of mRNA transcripts and checked for changes in the half-lives of their decay. Analyzed sequences of modified genes to check for unwanted mutations and evidence of toxicity. Numerous short procedures in support of other projects, mainly involving ligating a PCR product to a pre-existing plasmid and transforming to either chemically competent E. coli or electrocompetent S. pyogenes. Some experience with in vitro transcription using radionucleotides to analyze gene regulation. Maintained stocks of lab supplies and evaluated new products to keep the lab up to date.

Mastered the procedure for Oncolab's proprietary test for anti-malignin antibody in serum. Devised and tested various methods for automating the above test, including coating slides, capillaries, and glass beads with protein via both albumin pre-coating and aminosilylation.