Dr. Alba Maria Shank – Anatomic Pathology – Best Researcher Award
IDEXX | United States
Profiles
📍Current Position
Alba Maria Montana Shank currently serves as an Anatomic Pathologist at IDEXX Reference Laboratories. Based out of Ruckersville, VA, she has been with IDEXX since 2016, demonstrating expertise in immunohistochemistry (IHC), ophthalmology, and reproductive pathology. As the Pathology Lead for the Immunohistochemistry Team, Alba is instrumental in exploring and validating new IHC markers and has contributed significantly to IDEXX’s pathology research and development efforts. She also actively trains new hires, mentors colleagues, and participates in professional development events.
📝Publication Achievements
Alba has an impressive publication record, including works on topics like SATB2 immunohistochemistry in canine osteosarcoma and ocular porcupine quilling in dogs. Her studies on canine, feline, and equine corneal vascular neoplasia have added valuable insights to veterinary pathology, showcasing her expertise in ocular pathology. Alba’s collaborative work with prestigious institutions such as the Comparative Ocular Pathology Laboratory of Wisconsin (COPLOW) has led to high-impact presentations and publications in Veterinary Ophthalmology and Veterinary Pathology journals.
🔍Ongoing Research
Alba is currently focused on projects involving AI pathology and IHC marker validation for veterinary species. She is engaged in internal consultations, especially within the AP Team, ensuring high standards for immunohistochemical analysis. Alba’s ongoing research involves developing new diagnostic techniques, contributing to the innovative evolution of pathology practices at IDEXX.
🔬 Research Interests
Alba’s research spans across ocular pathology, reproductive pathology, and immunohistochemistry. She has a particular interest in using IHC markers to advance the detection and diagnosis of various conditions in veterinary species, with a specific focus on ocular and reproductive diseases.
🎓Academic Background
Alba’s educational journey is notable, with a solid foundation in veterinary science:
D.V.M., Virginia Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine (2006)
Residency in Anatomic Pathology, University of Kentucky Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (2006-2009)
M.S. in Veterinary Medical Science, with a focus on nutrition, Virginia Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine (2002)
B.S. in Biology and Animal and Poultry Science, Virginia Polytechnic and State University (1998)
🏆Scholarships and Awards
Alba has been recognized through various awards, including the Idexx “High Flyer Award” and Idexx 2X Awards for outstanding achievements. She received the Herman & Mildred Corder Award and the W R Winslow Veterinary Scholarship during her academic career. These accolades highlight her dedication, leadership, and contributions to veterinary pathology.
🧬Bioinformatics
Alba’s involvement in pathology goes beyond traditional practices, as she leverages bioinformatics to enhance her research, particularly in the interpretation of data related to IHC markers. This adds depth to her work, enabling her to analyze complex biological data and apply it to clinical and diagnostic contexts.
🌐Professional Associations
Alba is actively involved in professional veterinary associations, attending conferences like ACVO, AVMA, and AAEP. Her participation not only helps in staying updated with the latest developments in the field but also allows her to contribute by presenting her research findings.
📚Training & Workshops
Alba has completed several professional training courses, such as:
Descriptive Pathology at the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology
Clinical Pathology Workshop at the VA-MD Regional College of Veterinary Medicine These workshops have equipped her with advanced skills in pathology, which she applies in her role at IDEXX.
🎤Oral Presentations and🗣️Thought Leadership
Alba has been an invited speaker at numerous veterinary meetings, delivering talks on various topics, including histopathology and ocular pathology. She presents to diverse audiences, sharing insights from her experience and helping to educate others in the field.
🧑🔬Tasks Completed as a Researcher
Throughout her career, Alba has undertaken tasks such as reading and interpreting histopathology samples, training colleagues, and managing projects. Her research tasks are completed with a high level of precision and dedication, reflecting her commitment to her work.
🚀Success Factors
Alba’s success can be attributed to her dedication, attention to detail, and commitment to professional growth. Her ability to train others, lead projects, and contribute to pathology research makes her a valuable asset to IDEXX and the veterinary pathology community.
🧪Publications & Laboratory Experience
With multiple publications in reputed journals, Alba is well-respected for her contributions to veterinary pathology. Her lab experience includes reading complex cases, especially in ophthalmology, and developing new IHC markers. This hands-on experience has positioned her as a leader in her field.
🔍 Conclusion
Alba Maria Montana Shank’s expertise and contributions to veterinary pathology are both extensive and impactful. Her ongoing research, dedication to training others, and professional accomplishments have solidified her role as an influential figure in veterinary medicine. With her extensive background, Alba continues to push the boundaries of veterinary pathology, making a lasting impact on the industry and inspiring future veterinary pathologists.