top of page
pmmweb

Behind the Bench: Spotlight on Our Lab Heroes - Tori Marko




Meet Tori Marko

Tori is a Medical Laboratory Technologist (MLT) in the Malignant Hematology lab at Juravinski Hospital. With a BSc in Molecular Biology and Genetics and an MSc in Biochemistry from McMaster University, Tori brings a wealth of scientific knowledge to their role.


Prior to joining Juravinski, Tori spent several years working in academic research labs, focusing on microbiology. The desire to apply her skills in a more direct patient care setting led them to pursue Medical Laboratory Science at The Michener Institute.


A Day in the Life of an MLT

As an MLT in Malignant Hematology, Tori plays a crucial role in diagnosing blood disorders. Her primary responsibility involves examining blood smears from patients across Hamilton to identify abnormal blood cells. She also utilizes advanced techniques like flow cytometry to provide detailed analysis of blood cell components.


The Inspiration Behind Their Career

Tori's passion for lab work dates back to their childhood when they received their first toy microscope and chemistry set. The joy of experimentation and understanding how things work has been a constant driving force throughout her career. Discovering the field of Medical Laboratory Technology during their graduate studies was a turning point, aligning perfectly with their aspirations.


The Most Rewarding Aspects of the Job

One of the most interesting aspects of Tori's position is the diversity of cases they encounter. Serving a large patient population from various hospitals, she often works on unique cases involving rare blood disorders. The constant learning and the opportunity to apply her knowledge and skills in a meaningful way make her work incredibly rewarding.


Beyond the Lab

While Tori enjoys the intricacies of her lab work, she also values the opportunity to interact with patients directly. As part of her role, she assists with bone marrow aspirate procedures, providing a personal connection to the patients she serves. This experience reinforces the significance of her work and the impact it has on individuals' lives.


Advice for Aspiring MLTs

For those considering a career as an MLT, Tori offers valuable advice: "Be curious and always seek to learn. If you don't know something, don't hesitate to ask questions. Stay open to new opportunities and volunteer for projects that interest you."


Outside of Work

When not immersed in the world of laboratory science, Tori enjoys a variety of hobbies, including playing video games, Dungeons & Dragons, knitting, piano, and roller skating.

Comments


bottom of page