Gina Tanner, MBA, CEO and Business Manager

Gina Tanner holds a B.S. in Finance from the University of Arizona and an MBA. She brings years of Fortune 50 sourcing, marketing, finance and accounting experience to Antimicrobial Test Laboratories. Most importantly, Gina brings her passion for customer service and efficient business processes.

"I want innovators to feel comfortable exploring the possibilities of their technologies at Antimicrobial Test Laboratories. To that end, I spend my days streamlining lab-client interactions, maintaining our fast test-turnaround times, and making sure our customers are satisfied with their testing experience. "

Benjamin D. Tanner, Ph.D., President and Scientific Director

Benjamin Tanner holds a Ph.D. in Microbiology and Immunology from the University of Arizona, where he studied infectious disease transmission with Dr. Charles Gerba. Dr. Tanner is the author of the book "Legal Aspects of Infectious Diseases." He has worked extensively with industry, academia, and government. Before launching Antimicrobial Test Labs in 2006, Dr. Tanner enjoyed years as a microbiologist with the Clorox Company.

"I love working with the companies and individuals that develop disinfectants and other antimicrobial technologies. As antibiotic resistance grows and our world becomes more connected, prevention of infections will be more important than ever."

Luia Ikner, Ph.D., Lead Virologist

Luisa Ikner holds a Ph.D. in Soil, Water and Environmental Science (Environmental Microbiology focus) from the University of Arizona. She has worked as a microbiologist for nine years on a variety of projects under the guidance of Dr. Raina Maier and Dr. Charles Gerba. Her projects have included the assessment of human impact on bacterial populations in Kartchner Caverns, Arizona, and method development for the concentration and detection of enteric viruses present in water. Luisa brings a wealth of knowledge and technical expertise in applied virology to Antimicrobial Test Laboratories.

“Whether one considers viruses as abiotic or living, they have and will continue to shape of things to come for humankind. The development of antivirals has been a key factor in exercising some control over these infectious agents. Our virology testing facilities will provide the highest level of quality to ensure the efficacy of virucidal preparations and products.”

Jason Williams, B.S., Microbiologist and Study Director

Jason Williams holds a B.S. in Microbiology from Texas Tech University. His previous work experience includes USDA, where he studied virulence and pathogenesis of hemorrhagic E. coli. As Microbiology Study Director, Jason plays a key role in laboratory operations and project management. Prior to joining Antimicrobial Test Labs, he served in the United States Marine Corps, where he was a two-time recipient of the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal.

“We may never win the war against pathogens, but we can pick our battles through the prudent use of effective antimicrobial products. I am excited to take part in optimizing the effectiveness of antimicrobials and disinfectants produced by today’s leading and largest consumer product manufacturers."

Ashley Rex, B.S., Microbiologist, Study Director

Ashley Rex holds a B.S. in Biology from the University of Utah. Prior to joining Antimicrobial Test Laboratories, she worked as a microbiologist for leading medical device testing laboratory Nelson Laboratories (Salt Lake City, Utah).

At Antimicrobial Test Laboratories, Ashley manages a variety of non-GLP studies and assists with special projects.

“It’s great to be a part of the antimicrobial development process and ultimately see the products in action, keeping germs in check.”

Jessica Akins, B.S., Microbiologist, Quality Assurance Specialist

Jessica Akins holds a B.S. in Biology from Texas A&M University. Her previous work experience comes from an environmental microbiology laboratory in Corpus Christi, where she tracked and monitored fecal contamination in recreational waters along the Gulf Coast for several government agencies including TCEQ, TGLO, and the EPA. Jessica is especially skilled with respect to designing and managing complex studies.

Jessica has done work for the following agencies:

• EPA (Environmental Protection Agency)
• TGLO (Texas General Land Office)
• TCEQ (Texas Commission on Environmental Quality)
• CBBEP (Coastal Bend Bays and Estuaries Program)
• TSSWCB (Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board)
• NRA (Nueces River Authority)

"Be the change you want to see in the world"

Rachelle Baker, B.S., Microbiologist, Quality Assurance Specialist

Rachelle holds a B.S. in Microbiology from the University of Texas. Rachelle brings her background in pharmaceuticals, keen interest in microbiology, and attention to detail to Antimicrobial Test Laboratories. Rachelle runs a variety of non-GLP antimicrobial efficacy studies, performs study and report audits for GLP studies, and routinely inspects the facility to ensure full compliance for all GLP studies.

“I am excited to be part of a team that is passionate about science and takes antimicrobial testing seriously.”

Megan Amerson, B.S., Applied Microbiology Intern

Megan holds a B.S. in Microbiology from the University of Texas, Austin.

Her primary interest is in Clinical Microbiology. Unfortunately for Antimicrobial Test Laboratories, she will be leaving Antimicrobial Test Laboratories int he fall to join a clinical microbiology program at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston.

We wish her all the best!