Notes from the Field: Cytocell Field Application Scientist, Ashley Hart

OGT offers unparalleled technical support for FISH. Learn more about how Ashley Hart, CytoCell^® Field Application Scientist, works with customers, and what is the first thing she might check for on a troubleshooting call.

What was your lab experience prior to becoming a Field Application Specialist?

I worked 4 years at LabCorp, RTP as a Cytogenetic Technologist processing and reading FISH slides while also completing all of the new in-house probe validations.

What made you transition from the lab to a FAS role?

I was eager to learn more of the commercial side of the business while still applying my technical knowledge and skills, as well as searching for more opportunities for growth.

What are the most common support issues from customers? 

Customers often request support on troubleshooting weak signals while using FFPE and hematology probes as well as finding proper digestion times using FFPE samples.

What are some of the challenges you face in your current role?

I love every minute of being an FAS, but high travel months means more time not spent with my two fur-children. I love coming home to those happy faces!

What do you find most rewarding about this position? 

It is very rewarding to be able to help streamline and improve a customer’s TAT by using reliable and consistent probes because you know it can make a difference in someone’s life. I have met some very wonderful people being an FAS and creating trusting relationships with them is key in providing support. 

Most interesting support resolution? 

I was onsite troubleshooting weak signals and after hours of feeling defeated, I discovered the cable to the light box had been bumped and was no longer properly fitted. That’s the first thing I check for now!