Directs and coordinates the production of organisms and related products for the Biodefense and Emerging Infections (BEI) contract. Directs facility operations for multiple BSL-3 facilities.Develops technology transfer procedures (i.e. Nanopore and Illumina sequencing, DNA extraction methodologies), production processes and appropriate documentation to support the production of microorganisms and related products. Participates in the annual budget process and is accountable for the cost-effective operation of the HCBT. Experienced with project management software such as QAD, LIMS, and Microsoft Access, and understands and implements GLP, ISO Standards (9001, 13485, 17025, 17034).Carries out supervisory responsibilities.

Perform, troubleshoot, and develop assays for bacterial Select Agents, Mycobacteria, and dimorphic fungi including qPCR and sequencing.

Production and QC of bacterial and fungal cultures and nucleic acids. Proficiency with culturing Risk Group 3/Select Agent bacteria and fungi. Creation of data capture forms and WIs/SOPs for Select Agents and Risk Group 3 organisms.

Molecular authentication of cell and egg grown viruses, including completion of CDC rRT-PCR Influenza Panels, RT-PCR/Sequencing. Production of egg-grown viruses and QC including HA, CEID50, and innocuity testing. Proficiency in multiplex and qPCR.

Culturing various microorganisms onto differential media to ensure growth, isolation, and quantification for the purpose of clinical diagnostics. Proficient use of the Vitek 2 microbial identification system.

Processed clinical samples for the detection of acid fast bacteria and mycobacterial susceptibility testing. Supervised and trained individuals on BSL-3 related safety procedures and on various mycobacterial assays.Served on the H1N1pdm Response Team from April 2008-June 2008 training individuals on rRT-PCR, and subsequently assisting with processing and running PCR for the detection of pandemic influenza, and validated and standardized various CDC pandemic flu kits during this time.

Performed nucleic acid extraction and rRT-PCR for the analysis of potential Select Agents, while Ecollaborating with various local and federal government agencies including the CDC and NYPD on a daily basis.

Cell culture and molecular work-up of various clinical virology specimens for the purpose of clinical diagnostics.