Organisation: Department of Agriculture and Water Resources
Job Title: Operational Science Support Officer
Word Limit: 4 KSC (500 words maximum per criterion)
Location: Sydney – NSW; Melbourne – VIC; Brisbane – QLD; Perth – WA; Adelaide – SA
1. Demonstrated capability to take personal responsibility for the accurate, timely and safe performance of the technical duties of the role, meeting the requirements of technical procedures and quality assurance management in a biosecurity diagnostic laboratory
As stated in my resume, I have successfully achieved this by excelling in my education, obtaining a broad realm of experience in various positions and study environments. I strive for excellence and continually make myself aware of existing policies, standards and guidelines within the workplace. I have been rewarded by receiving an excellence award i.e. Australian Postgraduate Awards (APA) scholarship 2013 – 2015.
As Brand Manager – Thai Riffic group, Sydney, I am currently managing and responsible for the efficient use of laboratory resources, including procurement and maintenance of laboratory equipment. I have compiled and reported the ingredients needed for class to the laboratory manager, and ensured they were all received on time and met the order specifications as well as meeting internal and external expectations. Contributing to the development and implementation of the laboratories quality management systems, I have, for example, tracked consumer and market insights by reviewing and recording metrics such as sales volume, market share, profit projections, pricing and distribution, and by conducting consumer research. Additionally, I developed competitive ELISA for detection of steroidal hormones in aquatic systems.
In my role as Research Assistant, I have collaborated on the project “Endocrine disrupting compounds monitoring in NSW water resources” with the University of Sydney, as well as being experienced in recombinant yeast cells, animal experimentation and PC2 environments.
As Administrative Coordinator, it was my responsibility to maintain the administrative workflow. I did this by utilising differing studying methods, implementing cost reductions, and developing reporting procedures, including technical. It was also my responsibility to train students in the operation of equipment and instruments required for their projects, and manage external marketing partners such as advertising agencies, digital marketing firms and production companies. Through analysis of information, identifying and communicating solutions, I have resolved a number of administrative problems. My team leaders have told me that they feel confident in my capabilities and trust in my decision making.
2. Work independently or under guidance to support laboratory technical activity, referring complex or difficult issues to team leaders and planning own work to support the work practices of the team
As set out in my resume, I have worked independently or under guidance to support the technical activity of the laboratory. I have proven my capability by planning my own work to support the practices of the team by reiterating independent and team expectations with my team leader; and being continually vigilant of safety issues. This includes, for example, monitoring chemicals to ensure they aren’t at risk of exploding or spilling.
My position as Brand Manager – Thai Riffic group, Sydney, also demonstrates my capacity to develop individuals and teams. I have endeavoured to motivate, influence and engage others in the achievement of goals for myself, the team and the organisation. By understanding and solving complex issues and providing analysis, I have contributed to informed decision making within the organisation. On occasions, I have referred difficult issues to my team leader but have monitored the outcome for future reference and for self-improvement. I research convincingly, identify key issues, counter arguments and set out ideas, gathering information by using the internet, reading journals, books and research papers, and by listening.
Safety within the lab is in the forefront of my mind for all activities. For example, each day I ensure first aid is accessible and kits are available, and that risks and issues are continually evaluated and documented. Through familiarising myself with the relevant procedures to escalate to senior staff or attend to myself, I am prepared to address complex issues. By identifying the issue, quarantining the situation and notifying relevant parties, I always address concerns to my supervisors and team members (if at risk). Additionally, I ensure that emergency procedures for chemical, radiation, biological, and engineering safety are up to date and available. Personally, I have completed PC2 training and animal ethic courses.
Utilising a task manager, as well as prioritising my workload according to management expectations, I have proven my ability to work independently. I work effectively to meet deadlines by monitoring the end date and by adjusting timelines and priorities as necessary.
An example of my initiative and drive to achieve results is displayed in the completion of written papers such as
‘Uraipong, C. and Zhao, J. (2015), Rice bran protein hydrolysates exhibit strong in vitro α-amylase, β-glucosidase and ACE-inhibition activities. Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, doi: 10.1002/jsfa.7182’
My excellent interpersonal and liaison skills have enabled me to foster trust and co-operation within a team. I share my knowledge with team members and strive to continue to learn and innovative. I am aware that as a condition of entry to a laboratory, all individuals must complete a laboratory safety induction and receive specific training in local safety rules and laboratory procedures relating to their work (including relevant SOPs), which I have done. If I am aware of individuals who act contrary to the rules and procedures, I take the necessary actions for them to be excluded from the laboratory.
3. Have good understanding of the role and functions of a diagnostic laboratory operating in a regulatory and legislative environment and an understanding of how these relate to service delivery
My excellent knowledge and experience are a result of my years of study and personal experience working within a diagnostic laboratory. By working with the school laboratory manager, I have learnt that safety is critical and I comply with the overarching safety framework, with experience in both PC1 and PC2 laboratories.
PC1 adheres to CHE_HSD_0004_laboratory access procedure chemical engineering UNSW and requires personal protective equipment (PPE); while PC2 adheres to the Australian Standard AS/NZ 2243.3:2002 for PC2. Within PC2 there is a QC2 facility that complies with the Quarantine ACT 1908.
In my supervisory role as Brand Manager, I have read the government policies and procedures that are relevant to my position. This is necessary so that I can perform my duties using best practice (up to date work instructions) and quality management principles to ensure that outcomes are client focused and entail minimal risk and cost. I comply with all diagnostic laboratory standards.
My commitment to my employer and my career is genuine as I have a passion for my work, as demonstrated by my recognised awards and research papers. It gives me great satisfaction to contribute to the work of the organisation. I have maintained administrative workflow by studying methods, implementing cost reductions, and developing reporting procedures. Part of my role as a team member has also encompassed guiding employee actions by developing, writing, and updating administrative policies, procedures, methods, and guidelines; and communicating developments to management on behalf of approximately 60 employees. I am meticulous about keeping records to support decisions within a regulatory and legislative context.
Some of the more laboratory specific duties that I have performed include
• Documenting and preparing pest, microbial, animal and plant specimens for identification, including image capture and archiving as demonstrated by my research papers
• Conducting specified diagnostic procedures, including sampling and extractions for molecular and serological assays as performed at the NSW University
• Preparing laboratory reagents and, using aseptic technique, microbiological culture media
• Managing time and resources according to requirements
• Purchasing and maintenance of laboratory equipment
My calm and approachable demeanour ensures that other team members, staff and associates can approach me with confidence and they are comfortable interacting with me.
4. Contribute proactively to development of a cooperative, high-performing work group and communicate effectively with client groups and service providers to deliver laboratory outcomes
I have demonstrated this by leading by example, having good work ethics, and not wasting resources or time. When working in the laboratory, I have assisted my fellow team members and was always prepared to work outside my role when required. My own performance plans were managed and my goals achieved by taking on the recommendations and advice of peers and seniors. I always used safe work practices and my seniors have complimented me on my excellent attitude. This is how I have contributed to the building and development of harmonious and effective work teams within the organisation.
With above average communication skills, I have developed, written, and updated administrative policies, procedures, methods, and guidelines and communicated developments to management. I have the ability to express myself clearly and logically, both orally and in writing. Multiple publications I have written or co-authored are now published on the web. For example,
Uraipong, C. and Zhao, J. (2015), Rice bran protein hydrolysates exhibit strong in vitro α-amylase, β-glucosidase and ACE-inhibition activities. Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, doi: 10.1002/jsfa.7182 http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs00128-013-0965-z
I also excel in presentations and have had years of experience in this area. For example,
Uraipong, C and Zhao, J (2014) “Bioactive properties of rice bran protein hydrolysates”. 64th Australian Cereal Chemistry Conference: ‘Opportunities for grains from breakthrough science’, 24- 27 August 2014, Brisbane, Australia – Oral presentation
I have developed and enhanced my communication skills within the industry by requesting samples of additives, food stabiliser and probiotics for class. Additionally, I have worked with the school laboratory manager to maintain awareness of laboratory safety and trained students to operate equipment and instruments required for their projects. It has been necessary to work closely with manufacturing and R&D and consult on package and product that related to branding. Crucial rapport with customers, managers, and employees is maintained by arranging continuance of contacts; researching and developing new services and methods and setting priorities. I also use my negotiation skills in resolving problematic situations and seek feedback for continued personal improvement.
On an ongoing basis, I provide information by answering questions and requests. Within the laboratory environment, I have maintained continuity of work operations by documenting and communicating needed actions.
My years at university, my research capabilities and my experience working within a laboratory have enhanced my ability to understand and successfully communicate with a wide range of individuals. Clear written and verbal instructions mandate a lower risk of error, which in turn leads to less rework and reduced costs. I seek clarity if I’m not sure and do this by asking and reiterating requests. My work is my passion and my passion is my work.
