STEM Student Success Stories

For Citrus College alumna Elvira Elena Katus, biotechnology combines specialized scientific knowledge with the hands-on laboratory work she enjoys.

Katus earned an associate degree in biotechnology from Citrus College in June 2022. She had already begun working in the field while completing the program, joining Avrok Laboratories LLC as a laboratory associate in September 2020.

Her position involves a variety of laboratory responsibilities, including sample extraction, DNA quantification and the preparation and execution of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests. She also performs procedures associated with DNA sequencing, including the extraction and purification of RNA and DNA samples, preparation and quantification of libraries, preparation of pools for sequencing and the sequencing process itself.

Katus also assists the laboratory scientist with precision and accuracy testing. Additional responsibilities include maintaining and validating the laboratory's electronic inventory system for existing and new assays, maintaining laboratory inventory and helping with equipment calibration.

Among her many responsibilities, developing new assays is the work she enjoys most. "The thing that I love the most about my job is developing new assays," Katus said. "I feel lucky working with the primary lab scientist and learning all the necessary steps to create a new assay."

For Katus, laboratory work is also personally rewarding. "It is a very satisfying feeling when performing any laboratory work because it is something that makes me happy," she said.

Before enrolling at Citrus College, Katus already had a background in chemical engineering. However, she wanted more specialized knowledge and training in laboratory skills. When she found the Citrus College Biotechnology program, she recognized that its coursework could provide training relevant to the career path she wanted to pursue.

"I feel very fortunate to have found the biotechnology program at Citrus College," she said. "I have a background in chemical engineering, but I needed more specialized knowledge and training in laboratory skills. When I found the Citrus biotech program, I realized the classes would help me with my career path and I didn't hesitate to enroll."

According to Katus, the program provided instruction in equipment operation, biology and biotechnology concepts, mathematics, laboratory criteria and assays. Some of that training has a direct connection to the work being conducted at her laboratory.

For example, Katus learned the theory behind an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, or ELISA, as well as how to perform the test. Her workplace was preparing to begin ELISA testing, giving her an opportunity to apply knowledge she gained through the Citrus College program.

Katus also credits her instructors with contributing to her experience. "I also feel very lucky to have had excellent instructors sharing all their knowledge with me," she said.

Now working in a field she finds both interesting and satisfying, Katus encourages other students with an interest in science to consider biotechnology. "This is an amazing and exciting career, so I want to invite anyone who is science-driven to register in the biotechnology program," she said. "It is excellent and full of all the knowledge you need to start working!"

For more information about the Citrus College Biotechnology program, contact Dr. Eleanor Tsark at etsark@citruscollege.edu.

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