AVESSIE ANNAN

I’m an Associate Microbiologist focused on accurate, high-impact testing—from environmental sample processing to molecular analysis. At the New York City Department of Environmental Protection, I process samples using EPA Method 1623.1, including concentration, purification, and elution of Envirochek HV filters.

I routinely run immunomagnetic separation, heat dissociation, and staining to analyze Cryptosporidium oocysts and Giardia cysts, and I maintain HCT-8 cell lines for infectivity analysis and sterility checks using the Lonza Lucetta 2. I also perform and analyze PCR assays, validate new laboratory equipment, and develop and maintain SOPs, including a developmental SOP for Adenosine Triphosphate Analysis in source water.

Before my current role, I served as a Laboratory Technologist at Bio-Reference Laboratories, where I operated Gen-Probe Tigris and Panther systems for TMA-amplified assays detecting Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and Trichomonas vaginalis. I also used BD Viper systems for amplified DNA assays and supported traceability reporting, chain of custody documentation, and results analysis across HPV genotypes, zika virus, and quantitative HIV.

I take quality seriously: I conduct weekly, monthly, and quarterly quality control and assurance protocols, review and generate laboratory analysis reports, and manage data in STARLIMS. I prepare for internal and external audits, including proficiency tests, and I continue to contribute through publications and presentations reflecting my commitment to rigorous laboratory science and learning-driven growth.