Denise Kniffin, a biologist with the U.S. Army Medical Research and Development Command's Medical Research Institute of Chemical Defense was honored as USAMRDC's Employee of the Quarter on October 31.

"I am honored to be chosen for the award," said Kniffin, who has served in a civilian role at USAMRICD for the past 15 years. "There are so many talented and deserving employees within USAMRDC that work hard every day to support the Warfighter."

According to fellow scientists and researchers, Kniffin's most notable traits are her 'can-do' attitude and a constant, tireless focus on the mission. While she's been at USAMRICD since 2007, she stepped into her current position – which is part of the Institute's Comparative Pathology Department – only six years ago. The role that allows her to support the research protocols that enable principal investigators to evaluate therapies for threats that a Warfighter may encounter on the battlefield.

"Each protocol has specific needs that we discuss with the principal investigators before projects start so that we can identify the areas of interest and what, exactly, is required," said Kniffin, offering a more in-depth explanation of her position. "I really enjoy being able to consult with the principal investigators to help determine the needs of each study – then getting to implement the strategies needed to complete the work successfully."

Kniffin's key contributions during the second quarter of 2022 are highlighted by her day-to-day excellence as a histology technician; according to her nomination packet, she routinely mentors other histology technicians at USAMRICD. In addition, due to a recent staffing shortage, she stepped forward to manage all department finances during the second quarter of the year. Kniffin is also routinely recognized by the Surety and Environmental Regulatory Compliance Office for her extensive knowledge and successful implementation of the Institute's hazardous waste management program.

"She has shown great determination to support her coworkers and the mission to the best of her ability," said USAMRICD Supervisory Biologist Tracey Hamilton in Kniffin's nomination paperwork.

For Kniffin, learning those new tasks – in addition to excelling in her chosen area of expertise – is all part of both growing as a professional and filling a role integral to the success of the command and the Warfighter. Knowing that kind of lift takes more than just a singular effort, Kniffin is quick to thank her coworkers for their own roles in the team's overall success.

"I am privileged to work with a great group of people and have opportunities to learn and develop all of the time," said Kniffin.