Sep. 8, 2025
This is part of a series of Q&As introducing faculty who have joined the College of Health Sciences for the 2025–26 academic year. Meet all of our new faculty members.
Annie John
Instructor, Department of Clinical and Diagnostic Sciences
What classes are you teaching this semester?
I will be teaching Laboratory Operations and Techniques, Clinical Microbiology, Clinical Immunohematology and Clinical Laboratory Correlations and Review.
Tell us about yourself. What is your background?
I am originally from Vienna, Missouri, a small town about 45 miles south of Jefferson City. I am a previous alumna from Mizzou, class of 2020 (M-I-Z!). I have lived in Columbia since I started school back in 2016. Since graduation, I have worked as a medical laboratory scientist at Boone Hospital for the past four years.
What brought you to Mizzou? To your field?
Mizzou has always been a second home to me. Both my father and grandfather are alumni of Mizzou, so regular trips to Mizzou for football and basketball games have been a constant almost my whole life. I’ve always loved the culture here at Mizzou and the exciting atmosphere found all around campus. When it comes to my field, I have always been drawn to science and the health care environment. I knew about the medical laboratory science field as early as junior high, but I was still unsure before coming to Mizzou whether it was for me. With the help of Mizzou’s many resources and amazing faculty, I was able to find a real passion in medical laboratory science and have been a part of the field ever since!
What is your favorite thing about your job?
My favorite thing about my job is the opportunity to promote the profession of medical laboratory science and teach future laboratorians the knowledge and skills needed to facilitate excellent patient care. The medical laboratory science field is very much a hidden profession, but it is so imperative to the diagnosis and treatment of patients in a variety of health care settings. I absolutely love the role we get to play in patient care, and I can’t wait to pass along my passion for medical laboratory science to as many students as possible!
What has you excited for this semester?
I am very excited for the opportunity to build our new standalone medical laboratory science program. I am thrilled that the program is now going to be housed solely through Mizzou, so that travel is no longer a barrier to those interested in going through the program. Our program also has the unique feature of providing our students with access to hospital-grade analyzers prior to their arrival to their clinical rotation. This means we will be able to better prepare our students for their clinical rotation, as well as the workforce in general.
What is a fun hobby or activity that you enjoy outside of work?
I love getting outside and doing any kind of physical activity! Columbia has so many beautiful nature trails that are great for walking and hiking, so I take advantage of using those as often as I can. I also love spending time with my friends and family! Going out to eat, playing games, watching movies — any activity with loved ones is my go-to!
Share a memorable moment from your time teaching – something funny, touching, or just downright unforgettable!
One of the most rewarding things I find about teaching is watching the “light bulb” go off in students’ minds when they finally are able to understand a concept that they were previously struggling with. It truly makes all the difference! I also love helping students through mistakes and errors made in the lab. Problem-solving is a huge part of our jobs as laboratorians, so being able to show them how we work through mistakes and unforeseen circumstances is one of my favorite things (because I always learn a lot, too)!
What is your hidden talent?
I can talk like Stitch from Lilo & Stitch. If you see me, feel free to ask for a demonstration! “Ohana means family.” *Stitch voice*
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received, and who gave it to you?
I’ve always loved the phrase “Don’t take life too seriously.” It reminds me to make sure I’m adding some fun to my life and the lives of those around me.
