Ana Cvetkovic
Chicago
Summary
Accomplished scientist with proven success leading cross-functional projects in immunology, oncology, and small molecule therapeutics. A former collegiate athlete who brings a competitive edge and collaborative spirit to every team. Known for driving initiatives from concept to execution with precision and energy. Eager to contribute and advance in biotech and clinical development efforts.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Senior Research Associate
ReAx Biotechnologies
10.2024 - Current
- Team Leadership & Project Management:
- Strategically planned and prioritized experimental timelines in a fast-paced startup environment, adjusting to changing business needs while maintaining a balance between urgency, scientific value, and budget constraints
- Developed and delivered presentations to convey complex scientific concepts to non-technical audiences, including investors, venture capitalists, and CEOs
- Resolved a resource allocation challenge by merging three lab spaces into two, streamlining operations and saving the company $50,000 annually in rent
- Established weekly check-ins and developed a task-tracking system to improve communication, align priorities, and increase accountability in lab operations
- Leveraged IT tools to monitor project progress, track task ownership, and ensure timely completion of team responsibilities
- Research Contributions
Graduate Student Researcher
Loyola Stritch School of Medicine
01.2021 - 01.2024
- Independent Research Contributions (CD8αα+ TCRαβ & TCRγδ IELs):
- Uncovered the expression of a myeloid marker in CD8αα+ TCRαβ & TCRγδ intra-epithelial lymphocytes (IELs) using spectral flow cytometry
- Defined the function of a unique subset of TCRγδ IELs through functional assays and illuminated their broader role in intestinal homeostasis, contributing to understanding immune regulation
- Utilized AMNIS flow cytometry and two-photon microscopy to investigate β2 integrins in intra-epithelial T cells
- Developed & optimized an antigen uptake assay for a DC cell line, enhancing its application for gut-associated DCs
- Use antibiotic treatments to investigate the dependency of a specific IEL subset on the gut microbiome
- Investigated intracellular signaling pathways in T cells using the Jurkat cell line
- Developed a comprehensive SOP for culturing the human bladder epithelial cell line (HBLAK)
Undergraduate Research Intern
Van Andel Institute
01.2020 - 01.2021
- Developed and optimized a glycan biomarker detection assay for gastric cancer, boosting diagnostic accuracy and facilitating earlier intervention for more patients
- Laboratory of Dr. Brian Haab
Associate – Lab Operations
Fehr Solutions
01.2019 - 01.2020
- Quality Control Responsibilities:
- Conducted chemical testing, including azole quantification and advanced methods such as ICP-OES and Fluorescence spectroscopy
Undergraduate Student Researcher
North Central College
01.2018 - 01.2019
- Designed & validated a genetic-based assay for quantifying master molds in the field
- Established comprehensive SOPs for collection, maintenance, and storage of infectious agents in laboratory, reduced contamination incidents and improved sample integrity
- Created high-fidelity primers and probes utilizing MEGA7 analysis software; decreased false positives and elevated reaction specificity, leading to more reliable experimental results
- Provided training & mentorship in laboratory and technical skills to fellow students
- Received a grant to pursue summer project during the year & presented work at numerous conferences
- Laboratory of Dr. Gregory Ruthig
Education
MS - Microbiology & Immunology
Loyola University Chicago
Chicago, Illinois01.2024
BS - Biochemistry
North Central College
Naperville, Illinois01.2021
Skills
- Murine organ harvesting & Immune cell isolation
- Primary T cell isolation & functional characterization
- Tissue culture & organoids (human & murine)
- Conventional & spectral flow cytometry
- AMNIS imaging flow cytometry
- Two-photon & confocal microscopy
- Cytometer bead array (CBA) & ELISA
- Molecular Biology (WB, PCR, qPCR, RT-PCR)
- Antiproliferation assay & CTG
- DNA sequence analysis
- Assay development & optimization
- Management & maintenance of the laboratory
- Laboratory & instrumentation training
- Project Planning
- Team Coordination & Leadership
- Stakeholder Management
- Resource Management
- IND Enabling Studies
- Quality Inspection
- MS Office Suite & Project Tracking IT Tools
- Presentation Skills
- Problem Solving
- Budget Planning & Management
- Customer Service
- Business Development Support
- Performance Monitoring & Evaluation
PRESENTATIONS (SELECTED)
- Molecular Parasitology Meeting, Genetic Society of America September 2020
- Amphibian Pathogens Annual Meeting, Arizona State University November 2019
- National Conference of Undergraduate Research, Kennesaw State University April 2019
Languages
Spanish
Limited Working
English
Native or Bilingual
French
Elementary
Serbian
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
Senior Research Associate
ReAx Biotechnologies
10.2024 - Current
Graduate Student Researcher
Loyola Stritch School of Medicine
01.2021 - 01.2024
Undergraduate Research Intern
Van Andel Institute
01.2020 - 01.2021
Associate – Lab Operations
Fehr Solutions
01.2019 - 01.2020
Undergraduate Student Researcher
North Central College
01.2018 - 01.2019
BS - Biochemistry
North Central College
MS - Microbiology & Immunology
Loyola University Chicago