Rathy Kumaraguru

Experience

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  NHS

  Dec 2008 - Oct 2012

  Biomedical Scientist

  Validated, and implemented histology/immunohistochemical staining procedures with human tissues to support research projects. Conducted immunohistochemical (IHC) stains using a chromogenic methodology, by using a manual or an automated IHC platform; supported appropriate antigen retrieval techniques, troubleshooting of staining methods; antibody titrations. Independently planned, developed, and supported assigned experiments and protocols. Recommended methods and developed and/or modified methods and procedures to meet the experimental objectives. • Prepared clinical laboratory services as an aid to effective diagnosis and treatment.• Performed routine work in histology, including specimen reception, embedding, microtomy, cryotomy, special stains, Immunohistochemistry (DAKO Autostainer), macroscopic descriptions and dissection of category A specimens. • Participated in internal and external quality assurance/assessment schemes.• Prepared tissue slides (paraffin and frozen sections) for historical or immunohistochemical staining, both using manual or automated systems. • Acquired data by conducting scanning of slides. • Provided guidance and training to staff on the use of laboratory equipment and in the performance of specialized procedures/techniques. • Maintained records of experimental results, worked with staff to analyze and interpret data, and prepared summaries of laboratory findings. • Reviewed available literature on new methods and techniques for potential application within the laboratory. • Attend weekly group meetings and weekly general laboratory meetings. Show less

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  Bon Secours Health System Ireland

  Oct 2012 - Dec 2012

  Medical Scientist

  My job involved helping the laboratory with embedding, sectioning, labelling, Immunohistochemistry (VENTANA) and biopsy transfers. I was also able to help with the non gynaecological preparation.

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  Whittington Health

  Dec 2012 - Mar 2013

  Biomedical Scientist

  My role as Locum BMS involves microtomy, embedding, special stains, labelling of slides and helping with the routine day to day work.

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  Bon Secours Health System Ireland

  Mar 2013 - May 2013

  Medical Scientist

  Lab undergoing INAB inspection, I was able to help with preparing the lab for inspection and routine day to day jobs; embedding, sectioning, labelling, Immunohistochemistry (VENTANA) and biopsy transfers.

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  Barts Health NHS Trust

  Jun 2013 - Jan 2014

  Biomedical scientist

  Locum BMS; microtomy, embedding and helping with the routine day to day work

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  Whittington Health

  Jun 2013 - Jun 2013

  Biomedical Scientist

  My role as Locum BMS involves microtomy, embedding, special stains, labelling of slides and helping with the routine day to day work.

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  Princess Royal University Hospital

  Feb 2014 - Mar 2014

  Biomedical Scientist

  Locum BMS; Microtomy, embedding and helping with routine day to day work

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  UCL

  Mar 2014 - May 2014

  Biomedical Scientist

  Microtomy, Immunohistochemistry, assisting with DDISH, FISH and helping with the routine day to day work

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  Health Service Executive

  May 2014 - Dec 2014

  Responsible for overall operations quality assurance/quality management program, ensuring that the quality system was implemented and followed; maintaining documents, records and certifications according to state and federal health care standards in compliance with accreditation guidelines. Worked closely with the Lab Manager and Technical Directors to ensure the Quality Plan was followed and the established QA monitors were implemented, reviewed, and adjusted as needed. Served as a resource for the Lab Manager, Supervisors, Systems Coordinator, and technical staff, in areas such as training, competency testing, and continuing education. • Assisted quality manager with preparation for UKAS inspection, microtomy, immunohistochemistry, and helping with the running of the laboratory.• Led quality assurance and quality management with an emphasis on establishing and maintaining a standardized quality management program.• Compiles, reviews, and analyzes data related to client concerns, QA events and corrective actions in order to determine areas for quality improvement. Show less

  • Mayo General Hospital - Acting Senior Biomedical Scientist/ Histology Quality Officer

    Aug 2014 - Dec 2014

  • Mayo General Hospital - Biomedical Scientist

    May 2014 - Aug 2014
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  UCL

  Jan 2015 - Dec 2016

  Developed, implemented, and monitored Quality Assurance (QA) activities in the laboratory department/section in compliance with clinical lab regulatory standards (UKAS, CLIA, CAP, etc.) and lab safety standards. Ensured inspection readiness at all times. • Partnered with quality manager on preparing for UKAS inspection, microtomy, immunohistochemistry, and day to day operation of the laboratory.• Interfaced with legal and risk management on issues of quality, patient safety, and error. Show less Oversaw testing procedures and protocols and sought and implemented solutions to issues relating to processing and quality performance. Managed in all QA/QC activities that affected the laboratory section, including overseeing specimen receipt and handling, work-flow, data reporting, quality control, and compliance with regulatory requirements. Ensured calibration and maintenance of equipment to assure proper functioning.• Prepared for UKAS inspection (ISO 15189:2012), writing and reviewing SOPs, performing audits, optimization, and validation of tests and stains, entering and closing non-conformance (major & minor).• Facilitated and attended management and laboratory meetings and trained new staff to use Q-Pulse and update competencies.• Investigated technical problems and took corrective action. Show less

  • University College London Advance Diagnostics BMS/ IHC Quality Officer

    Jan 2016 - Dec 2016

  • University College London Advance Diagnostics Acting Quality Manager

    Jul 2015 - Jan 2016

  • University College London Advance Diagnostics (U.K) Biomedical Scientist

    Jan 2015 - Jul 2015
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  Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust

  Sept 2016 - Mar 2020

  Maintained and restored human health through the practice of evidence-based medicine by reviewing medical histories, conducting physical exams, diagnosing illnesses/injuries, collaborating on treatment plans, and counseling patients on health and wellbeing. Worked collaboratively across a multi-disciplinary team, contributing to the development, implementation, and ongoing refinement of health processes. Communicated assessment findings used to inform the PCP of potential gaps in care.• Provided patient care, focusing on history taking, clinical assessment, diagnoses, treatment, and evaluation of care.• Conducted physical examinations, diagnostic, and therapeutic procedures.• Analyzed test results and initiated appropriate interventions.• Provided health promotion and disease prevention advice for patients.• Used appropriate referral pathways to refer patients to other services, developing supportive policies and guidelines, and offering educational resources. Show less

  • Physician Associate

    Aug 2017 - Mar 2020

  • Physician Associate - Student

    Sept 2016 - Jul 2017
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  Health Service Executive

  Dec 2016 - Jul 2017

  Biomedical Scientist

  Microtomy, embedding, sectioning, labelling, biopsy transfers, and helping with the routine running of the laboratory.

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  NHS

  Nov 2017 - Jan 2018

  Biomedical Scientist

  Microtomy, embedding, sectioning, filing, and helping with the routine running of the laboratory.

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  Bon Secours

  Jan 2018 - Mar 2018

  Biomedical Scientist

  Microtomy, embedding, sectioning, labelling, biopsy transfers, and helping with the routine running of the laboratory.

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  Health Service Executive

  Mar 2018 - Mar 2019

  Mayo University Hospital - Acting Head of Department

  Led a team of researchers focused on histological and IHC analysis of samples to inform multiple research and clinical programs. Enhanced and continually developed the capabilities of the histopathology group as needs arose and as technologies advanced, such as quantitative image analysis capabilities and multiplexed analyses. Led and implemented the development and fit-for-purpose validation of IHC and other tissue-based assays. Managed and guided the development of standard operating procedures (SOPs), and managed the scientific review, quality control (QC), and presentation of results and clinical study reports. Served as a subject matter expert in IHC and other tissue-based assays for research and clinical teams helping to design and evaluate data from exploratory biomarker hypothesis testing and Proof of Concept studies. Analyzed and rearranged workflow, processes, equipment, and schedules in order to optimize quality and throughput.• Managed a Histopathology department, providing excellent clinical laboratory services, and maintaining an orderly, efficient, and safe laboratory.• Prepared for INAB inspection (ISO 15189:2012), writing and reviewing SOPs, performing audits, optimization and validation of tests and stains, entering and closing non-conformance (major & minor), arranging and attending management/seniors and laboratory meetings.• Trained new staff within the laboratory, updating competencies and use of Q-Pulse.• Embedded, microtomy, special stains, labelling of slides, Immunohistochemistry and helped with the day to day routine work. Show less

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  Mater Misericordiae University Hospital

  Apr 2019 - Mar 2020

  Biomedical Scientist

  Carried out the day to day operations in the laboratory, performing routine and complex histopathological procedures, quality control and assurance procedures, operation and routine maintenance of instrumentation, troubleshooting, and overall principles of performance improvements. Contributed to retrieval and accession of Surgical, Cytology, and Autopsy Specimens, assisted in gross-room procedures, and disposed of pathology materials. Prepared sections of tissues for immediate examination, using rapid tissue processing and frozen techniques. Operated computerized/ automated laboratory equipment and performed chemical changes for the assurance of quality performance of equipment. Performed Microtomy, prepared slides, and cut and stained extremely delicate specimens for sensitive diagnostic purposes. Ensured that sufficient supply of reagents, supplies, and controls were available and monitored specimens, equipment, and the environment for contamination. • Performed routine Histopathology, supporting specimen reception, embedding, microtomy, quality control, frozen sections, macroscopic descriptions, and dissection of category A specimen.• Monitored and/or improved TAT/KPI to ensure lab was managed at 100%, including IHC results on the same day rather than TAT of 2 days.• Control blocks ensuring reagents were never out of stock and were always replenished on time. • Conducted audits.• Trained junior medical scientists. Show less