Mel

Laboratory Manager

Hi, I’m Mel the Laboratory Manager for Midwest Veterinary Laboratory. Upon graduating from the Medical Institute of MN I worked in the fields of emergency medicine, shelter and rescue, and in a zoological setting.

While working at the St. Louis Zoo, I started a DNA lab for avian sexing along with working on several research projects. In addition I’ve collaborated with various research projects at Washington University. During each of these areas of medicine I found myself drawn to the laboratory aspect of the field. Before opening MVL I managed a local veterinary reference lab for 12 years.

In 2019 I opened MVL to continue my love of veterinary medicine in the lab. I enjoy helping veterinarians by giving them the information that they need to make the best decisions for the animals’ health. My job varies from day to day whether it’s working on research, an interesting case, or educating my employees with new procedures.

In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, traveling, snorkeling, and trying new recipes. I have two cats (Finn and Figgy) and my dog (Rogan) who loves to come to work with me.

Stanley I. Rubin

DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVIM

Dr. Stan Rubin is a native of Calgary, Alberta. He was a member of the faculty of the Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan from 1984 through 2008. Dr. Rubin spent 3 years in private specialty practice in Tucson Arizona before returning to academic scene. Dr. Rubin was a Clinical Professor in the Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois from 2012 until March 2018. Dr. Rubin assumed the position of Regional Medical Director for the Pacific Northwest for a veterinary corporation.

Dr. Stan Rubin received his D.V.M. with Distinction from the University of Saskatchewan in 1980. He went on to complete an internship in Small Animal Medicine and Surgery at the University of Minnesota and a clinical residency and graduate program in Small Animal Internal Medicine at the University of Illinois. He returned to Canada to assume a faculty position at the University of Saskatchewan in 1984. Current interests include nephrology/urology, gastroenterology, diagnosis and treatment of systemic fungal infections, metabolic disease and electrolyte and acid-base disorders. He is also interested in the development of clinical skills, critical thinking and clinical problem-solving. Dr. Rubin is a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine.

Dr. Rubin is a co-editor of the veterinary textbook, Canine Internal Medicine Secrets that was published in 2007. He has been a contributor to the Merck Veterinary Manual and the Merck/Merial Manual for Pet Health and has authored numerous scientific articles and textbook chapters.

Dr. Rubin has 3 children, and one of them is a veterinarian.  He enjoys woodworking, cycling, photography and amateur radio.

Angela

Lab Technician

Hi, I’m Angela. I started at MVL in February 2024 as a lab technician. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Clinical Laboratory Science from Washington University Medical Center and have worked in the hospital laboratory setting and healthcare/laboratory IT for 15 years. I am very excited to be working in the veterinary world!

In my spare time I teach STEM at a small private school for students with disabilities, I coach robotics and I do competitive powerlifting. I have 2 kids and 1 very active beagle/chow mix named Stanlee.

Emily

Lab Technician

I’m Emily! I am a lab technician at Midwest Veterinary Laboratory. I received my bachelors in animal science from Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, Illinois in 2015. I have worked in various laboratory settings, both animal and non-animal related, in Indiana, Illinois, and now Missouri. I really enjoy working at Midwest Vet Lab because of the plethora of new knowledge I gain everyday in the veterinary field and knowing I am making a difference in animal lives! Everyday is truly a different experience and that keeps it interesting.

Growing up on a farm I have always had a passion for animals, specifically horses! I have an equine massage business I run on the side when I am not at the vet lab.

In my free time, I enjoy riding horses, listening to podcasts, learning a new skill, or traveling. I have 3 quarter horses: Mingo, Marlo, and Moose and one blue heeler named Flo (a Midwest Vet Lab regular).

Jess

Lab Technician

My name is Jess! I am a former veterinary technician and lab animal technician. I received my bachelor’s in biology in 2019, and since then have been floating around the animal field in sanctuaries, animal hospitals, and lab settings.

Outside of my professional life, I am a mother to three cats named George, Arthur, and Widow. They take up the majority of my time, but when I’m not loving on them I’m hanging out with my parents, playing the Sims, watching Love Island UK, or fawning over Harry Styles.

Grace

Lab Technician

Hi, I’m Grace! I recently received my bachelors degree at the University of Missouri in Animal Sciences in 2023. I love any and all animals no matter the size! During my undergrad I focused mainly on the dairy industry, did dairy research and worked on the school’s dairy farm. However, I have experience with small animal, equine, small ruminants, swine, beef, and poultry! I love the work we do and the discovery work behind each case at MVL! I couldn’t think of a better job!

At home I have one dog Charlie who I love taking to new parks to explore and walk the trails. I’m also a car enthusiast and spend lots of time working on my car and going to events!