OFALD Spotlight Archives

Assistant Professor, Department of Department of Cardiovascular Sciences – Division of Thoracic Surgery

Education
Undergraduate: Harvard University AB Biological Anthropology cum laude 1997
Medical School: Boston University School of Medicine MD 2004
Residency: Brigham and Women’s Hospital 2004-2011
Fellowship: Vanderbilt University 2011-2015, East Carolina University/Vidant Medical Center 2015-2016

“For all of us, the most valuable asset we have is our time – once it is spent, it cannot be returned. This is where Dr. Oliver’s generosity is most evident. No matter what level of mentee she is supporting, she is never too busy…even when she is too busy! She is always available, which is evidenced by two distinct events: 1) the carpet in front of her door has had to be replaced due to the parade of folks that come for advice, encouragement, support, or the facts; and 2) she has spoken at the String of Pearls Lecture more than any other surgeon – except Dr. Pories (in all fairness, he has been here a lot longer!). She is who we should all strive to be as mentors and educators, but most importantly, as a person.”

-Dr. Iannettoni, Chairman of The Department of Cardiovascular Sciences

Assistant Professor, Department of Emergency Medicine

Education
Residency: University of Puerto Rico
MD, University of Puerto Rico
BS, University of Puerto Rico

Dr. Portela has been working together with the Pitt County Health Department and Pitt County EMS System to provide vaccines to eligible groups. He notes, “It has been extremely rewarding to providing these life-changing vaccines.”

Dr. Silvernail, Pitt County Health Director explains how Dr. Portela has gone above and beyond: “Throughout COVID, Dr. Portela has been at our side literally and figuratively. Dr. Portela has rearranged his personal and professional schedules to be able to assist Pitt County Health Department with our COVID response.”

Assistant Professor, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology

Education
Fellowship: Duke University
Fellowship: Hamner Institute
Ph.D., Biomedical Sciences, Endocrinology, Université de Montréal
M.Sc., Biological Sciences, Physiology, Université du Québec à Montréal
B.Sc., Biological Sciences, Physiology and Toxicology, Université du Québec à Montréal

Dr. Robidoux spends a majority of his time as a member of OSDAC, and dedicates time mentoring and coaching medical students. His goal is to help students stay connected with why they want to become a doctor and to embrace the challenge of becoming a doctor.

As the Director of the Summer Biomedical Research Program, one of his goals is to retain talented students that otherwise might not have persevered on their path toward a career in basic or clinical sciences by having them perform cutting-edge research.

Dr. Robidoux’s participation in the RISE program helps to create a fertile ground for the development of the next generation of young scholars.

Assistant Professor, Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine
Technical Director, Clinical Microbiology Laboratory

Education
Fellowship: Clinical and Public Health Microbiology, University of Texas Medical Branch
PhD, University of Vermont
BS, Clinical Laboratory Science, Marquette University

Board Certifications
American Board of Medical Microbiology
ASCP Certified Medical Laboratory Scientist

Responsible for state and federal regulatory compliance in microbiology lab testing

Works with Infectious Disease clinicians, Infection Control & Antimicrobial Utilization Stewardship Committee

Performs SARS-CoV-2 testing in the microbiology lab and makes sure that COVID-19 tests are accurately performed and resulted in a timely manner.

Goal: to develop appropriate testing algorithms in all areas of the microbiology laboratory