Research Coordinator High-Volume

Veronica Akanovich

*** ***** **.,

Escondido, CA 92029

Phone: 504-***-****

*********@*****.***

Professional Summary

• Over 25 years of experience in histology laboratories, including 10+ years in leadership roles.

• Expertise in microtomy, embedding, special staining (manual and automated), and immunohistochemistry.

• Proven ability to lead high-volume labs, develop SOPs, and ensure compliance with CAP, CLIA, and internal standards.

• Skilled in budgeting, quality improvement, and technical training in both clinical and research environments.

Education

Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences

University of New Orleans, LA — 1995

Certifications

HTL (ASCP) – Certified Histotechnologist, 1999 (Cert #1823)

Professional Experience

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance – San Diego, CA

Research Coordinator / Histotechnologist — Dec 2020 – June 2025

• Manage routine histology and full-service lab operations.

• Embed, section, stain (manual and automated IHC), and process animal tissue specimens.

• Develop and validate new protocols; write and update SOPs.

• Train necropsy staff and veterinary residents in histological techniques.

• Assist in necropsies and special conservation projects.

• Plan budgets, maintain inventory, and reduce lab costs without compromising quality.

• Customize protocols for diverse species with attention to specimen quality.

UC Health San Diego – San Diego, CA

Clinical Laboratory Supervisor II (Histology, EM & ICE) — Dec 2017 – Dec 2020

• Supervised 15 staff in a high-volume hospital laboratory.

• Oversaw histology, electron microscopy, and muscle labs.

• Implemented QC improvements and ensured CAP readiness.

• Improved turnaround times with lean workflows.

• Trained staff and supported client services on specimen handling.

Biotheranostics – San Diego, CA

Histotechnologist — Aug 2016 – Dec 2017

• Coordinated QA and CAP preparation.

• Performed high-precision microtomy and laser microdissection.

LabCorp – San Diego, CA

Histology Lab Supervisor I — Mar 2008 – Jun 2016

• Led daily operations for histology, IHC, and special stains.

• Supervised 14 staff; implemented the Vantage Specimen Integration System.

• Maintained compliance and QC; trained new staff and led continuing education.

Ochsner Clinical Foundation – New Orleans, LA

Histotechnologist — Jul 2000 – Mar 2008

• Performed routine histology, special stains, IHC, FISH, and muscle histology.

• Led CAP preparation and lab safety initiatives.

LSU School of Dentistry – New Orleans, LA

Medical Research Specialist — Jun 1995 – Nov 1999

• Supported oral pathology research through routine histology and manual staining.

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