In recognition of Medical Laboratory Professionals Week, we are pleased to spotlight Jennifer Nguyen, who works as a Medical Laboratory Technologist (MLT) at Stanton Territorial Hospital. Born and raised in Yellowknife, Jennifer attained her Bachelor of Science in Biology and Mathematics from McGill University before completing her MLT training at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology and eventually taking her current position at Stanton.

As a Medical Laboratory Technologist, Jennifer works with a variety of patient specimens to test them for bacteria, which are then reported to clinicians to help them diagnose and treat patients. She also performs respiratory pathogen testing, which detects if patients have COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses.

Jennifer always knew that she wanted to pursue a career in biology. Her interests and research ultimately led her to Medical Laboratory Technology and she has felt fulfilled working in the field ever since. Jennifer says she especially enjoys working through patient specimen, which she equates to completing a puzzle but with an even more rewarding outcome – helping clinicians diagnose and treat patients so that they can get better.

Jennifer is actively engaged in her work because there is always new information, new discoveries, new technological advancements, and new methods of testing that drive the field into the future – developments that allow her to continually expand her knowledge and skills. She also appreciates working in a smaller laboratory where she can be involved in every aspect of working up patient specimens. If she is ever confronted with challenges in her work, she knows that she can lean on her experienced, supportive, and professional peers for help.

As a Northerner, Jennifer says her hometown will always have a special place in her heart since it is where her roots began. Outside of work, she enjoys exercising, rest and relaxation, listening to music, dancing, baking, makeup and hair, and trying new foods with family and friends.

Thank you for everything you do, Jennifer!