MICHAEL JANES

Develop, optimize and test protocols for new diagnostic assays for drug resistance in Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB), including cell phone-based nucleic acid amplification and fluorescent slide-based assays. Conduct performance analysis, optimize assay conditions, troubleshoot technical issues.

Oversee laboratory activities for multi-institutional substudy to find transcriptionally relevant biomarkers for drug treatment response. Develop and implement protocol for RNA isolation, conduct in-country training for laboratory personnel. Communicate findings among collaborators.

Genotype MTB isolates as part of ongoing molecular epidemiology studies (using RFLP, PGRS, spoligotyping and whole genome sequencing). Perform sample and library preparation for whole genome sequencing (Illumina, PacBio).

Primary point-person for all laboratory activities, including project planning and execution, maintenance of MTB specimen repository, database management, training of personnel and administrative duties for BSL2 and BSL3 compliance with institutional, state and national regulatory bodies.

Investigated the role of novel RNAs and polypeptides in Trypanosoma brucei using RNAi screen of recently discovered novel transcripts, observed phenotypic variability in culture. Performed initial characterization of essential proteins and polypeptides with regard to in vivo protein expression, localization, activity and protein- protein interactions.

Used fluorescent (GFP) tagging, immunofluorescence, Western immunoblot, RT-PCR and Northern blot to validate expression and localization. Optimized protocols for immunofluorescent tagging and slide preparation.

Maintained detailed records on laboratory protocols, equipment and supplies. Procured microscopy equipment and software system, supervised purchasing, installation and training of personnel. Created and maintained biological specimen inventory system, managed radioactivity and environmental safety compliance.

Sourced primary and secondary literature to develop guide for prize-based research incentives to drive innovation in novel point-of-care diagnostics for Neglected Tropical Diseases. Synthesized research into 10-chapter guide for academic and government agencies, biotechnology companies and non-profit product development partnerships (PDPs).

Cultured bone marrow-derived stem cells for epithelial, neuronal, skeletal and cardiac muscle cell differentiation in vitro. Implemented automated system for the isolation of progenitor cells from whole bone marrow. Developed molecular-based assays for detection of biomarkers and phenotypic characteristics using confocal microscopy.

Generated and optimized protocols for biomarker detection via immunofluorescent labeling.

Performed administrative duties in the startup of core histology facility, including the recruitment and hiring of personnel. Researched, purchased and completed training for new equipment for tissue processing, embedding and staining.