Ann-Marie Morales
Ann-Marie Morales is a dedicated medical laboratory professional and Medical Technologist with extensive experience in clinical diagnostics, molecular biology, and microbiology. She currently works at Quest Diagnostics in the Mycobacteriology department, where she performs highly specialized laboratory work to help detect infectious diseases such as Tuberculosis. Her responsibilities include processing and decontaminating tissue, blood, and sputum samples to ensure accurate diagnostic results. Known for her precision, technical expertise, and strong attention to detail, Ann-Marie plays an important role in supporting accurate laboratory testing and patient care.
Ann-Marie earned her Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology from Montclair State University after completing her associate degree in biology at Hudson County Community College. Her career in laboratory science spans more than 15 years, including extensive experience at BioReference Laboratories, where she worked in pre-analytical screening and laboratory operations. Throughout her career, she has developed strong expertise in specimen processing, laboratory quality control, and advanced testing methods, while also contributing to training new team members and improving workflow efficiency within fast-paced clinical environments.
Driven by ambition and perseverance, Ann-Marie remains committed to expanding her expertise in the field of laboratory medicine. She is currently pursuing additional certifications, including cytotechnology training and future American Society for Clinical Pathology certification to further advance her career as a medical technologist. Guided by values of humility, patience, and kindness, she is passionate about supporting other women in science and encouraging the next generation of laboratory professionals to pursue hands-on experience, continuous learning, and meaningful professional connections.
• Bachelor of Science (BS), Molecular Biology
• Bachelor of Science (BS), Molecular Biology
• Montclair State University — Bachelor of Science (BS), Molecular Biology
• Influential Women 2026
• Chapter Sigma Alpha Pi — The National Society of Leadership and Success
What do you attribute your success to?
The best career advice I have ever received is to never give up, no matter how many obstacles stand in your way. Hard work and persistence are essential, especially when pursuing a career in science. I have also learned that networking is extremely important—talking to people, building relationships, and connecting with others in your field can open doors to opportunities and growth. Surrounding yourself with supportive professionals, particularly other women in the field, can make a meaningful difference in your career journey.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
My advice to young women entering the laboratory and science fields is to start small and focus on gaining as much hands-on experience as possible. Working in different departments within a laboratory can provide valuable exposure and help build the practical skills needed to succeed. Networking is also incredibly important, and I encourage young professionals to connect with professors, mentors, and colleagues who can provide guidance and support. Seeking advice from associate professors and experienced professionals can be extremely beneficial when building a career in science.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the laboratory and science fields is to start small and focus on gaining as much hands-on experience as possible. Working in different departments within a laboratory can provide valuable exposure and help build the practical skills needed to succeed. Networking is also incredibly important, and I encourage young professionals to connect with professors, mentors, and colleagues who can provide guidance and support. Seeking advice from associate professors and experienced professionals can be extremely beneficial when building a career in science.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The values that are most important to me are patience, humility, kindness, and support for others. I believe it is important to remain humble and never forget where you come from. Treating people with kindness and patience is essential, especially in a professional environment where teamwork and collaboration are key. I also strongly believe in supporting others—particularly women in science—because encouragement and mentorship can make a meaningful difference in someone’s career and personal growth.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me are patience, humility, kindness, and support for others. I believe it is important to remain humble and never forget where you come from. Treating people with kindness and patience is essential, especially in a professional environment where teamwork and collaboration are key. I also strongly believe in supporting others—particularly women in science—because encouragement and mentorship can make a meaningful difference in someone’s career and personal growth.