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LLS Fellows

“The LLS program has allowed me to apply my previous research experience to address current public health problems while at the same time getting experience in laboratory quality, safety, and management. These are valuable skills that will prepare us to take on leadership positions in public health and excel in our careers.”

Brunie Burgos-Rivera
LLS Class of 2016

“LLS has been the perfect bridge between my basic science research background and my public health career aspirations. Applying my scientific training to problem-solving that has direct impact on people’s lives is extremely rewarding.”

Anna Llewellyn
LLS Class of 2015

What’s New

LLS Fellow Anna Llewellyn’s Legionella Research Featured in Wall Street Journal

CDC Finds Bacteria for Legionnaires’ in Cooling Towers Across U.S.
Study deepens insight into link between the ubiquitous building equipment and the disease; cases have risen.

Publications

Peter A. Minchella, LLS Class of 2015

Specimen origin, type and testing laboratory are linked to longer turnaround times for HIV viral load testing in Malawi
PLoS One. February 24, 2017.
Lead author: Peter A. Minchella, LLS Class of 2015

Public Health Heroes, Up Close

Alexandra Mercante, CDC Enteric Diseases Laboratory Branch

As a microbiologist from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, I have always been interested in helping people live healthy lives and understanding how bacteria cause disease. While I was completing my post-doctoral training at CDC in the Tuberculosis Laboratory Branch, I discovered the Laboratory Leadership Service (LLS) program and decided it would be the perfect next step for my career.

To learn more, read the full story [PDF – 1 page].

Zachary Weiner, CDC Division of High Consequence Pathogens and Pathology

I developed a strong interest in laboratory science while working on my PhD at the University of Virginia where I investigated the interaction between Bacillus anthracis and the immune system. This work was the start of my journey in public health. I began my laboratory work at CDC through the American Society of Microbiology (ASM) postdoctoral fellowship. Towards the end of my ASM fellowship, my supervisor sent me information about the Laboratory Leadership Service (LLS) fellowship. I applied, knowing that it would be a great opportunity to continue my laboratory work at CDC.

To learn more, read the full story [PDF – 1 page].

Kudos Corner

Congratulations to LLS Class of 2015 Fellows Recognized for Exceptional Contributions

Aufra Araujo 2015 NCEZID Excellence in Emergency Response – International (group award)
Shannon Keckler 2015 Ebola Response Coin & Certificate, 2016 NCEZID Director’s Recognition Award (group award), $25,000 LASSI Award
Anna Llewellyn 2015 NCIRD Honor Award, 2016 NCEH/ATSDR Honor Award (group award)
Alexandra Mercante 2015 NCEZID Excellence in Laboratory Quality, 2015 NCEZID Excellence in Transforming Public Health Microbiology (group award)
Sheila Okoth 2015 CDC On-The-Spot Award from Division of Tuberculosis Elimination
Zachary Weiner 2016 CDC Laboratory Safety Champion
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