Sawsan Atia

Dedicated Fulbright Scholar and medical technologist with advanced academic training in molecular biology, genetics, and bacteriology. Proven expertise in performing high-accuracy diagnostic testing, managing laboratory workflows, and training clinical staff within fast-paced medical environments. Committed to strict safety protocols and delivering high-quality data to support patient care.

Medical Technologist at College Park Medical Center (2020-12 – 2023-12)

• Executed high-volume diagnostic testing for COVID-19, Influenza, and Streptococcus with a focus on speed and accuracy.
• Conducted blood-based immunological testing (IgG/IgM) to evaluate patient immunity levels and support clinical diagnosis.
• Spearheaded the training and onboarding of new laboratory staff, ensuring mastery of safety standards and workflow efficiency.
• Maintained 100% compliance with clinic protocols and result documentation standards.

Medical Technician at University of Virginia Health System (2018-05 – 2019-03)

• Managed the sterilization and decontamination of surgical instruments following rigorous hospital infection-control standards.
• Optimized the tracking and distribution of medical instruments to clinical departments to ensure seamless surgical support.

Research Assistant at Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine (2009-08 – 2013-05)

• Studied ABC transporter mutant strains to determine acid tolerance functions.
• Utilized PCR testing to identify resistant genes in bacterial strains and conducted molecular analysis of mutant strains.
• Performed complex antibacterial susceptibility studies to support medical research initiatives.

Research Assistant at Ministry of Science and Technology (1993-05 – 2009-08)

• Measured vital signs for animal daily and reported health examination for the animal field to the researcher in the pharmaceutical department.
• Extracted and purified human serum albumin and fibrinogen from blood plasma for research applications.
• Prepared bacteriological culture media and reagents while assisting in the laboratory diagnosis of viral infections.

M.S. in Molecular Biology and Genetics – Virginia Commonwealth University

M.S. in Bacteriology – University of Baghdad, Veterinary Medicine College

B.S. in Surgery and Veterinary Medicine – University of Baghdad