Cath Mercer
Stockport,UK
Summary
Detail-oriented laboratory professional with extensive expertise in clinical sample handling, microbiological, chemical, and physical analysis. Proficient in quality control, LIMS data entry, and laboratory safety protocols including COSHH and hygiene standards. Skilled in SOP development, reagent and media preparation, equipment maintenance and calibration, as well as inventory management and lab supplies ordering. Strong IT skills with proficiency in MS Word, Excel, and LIMS systems enhance collaborative teamwork and cross-functional communication. Committed to advancing laboratory efficiency through meticulous attention to detail and innovative problem-solving.
Overview
28
28
years of professional experience
1995
1995
years of post-secondary education
Work history
Brewing Quality Technician – Quality & Microbiological Testing
Frederic Robinsons Brewery
Stockport, UK
10.2013 - 07.2025
- Conducted routine analysis on samples using microbiological plating, pH, and chemical tests
- Prepared chemical solutions, growth media, and microscopy slides
- Carried out preventive maintenance on analytical and monitoring equipment
- Maintained laboratory logs and accurate LIMS-based records to ensure traceability
- Followed, and updated SOPs for testing procedures and contributed to improving lab efficiency
- Managed lab inventory, ordered supplies, and ensured compliance with lab safety standards
- Supported cross-department communication and contributed to continuous improvement initiatives
Senior Packaging Laboratory Technician
Daniel Thwaites
Blackburn, UK
05.1997 - 07.2013
- Led physical and microbiological quality testing of products prior to release
- Participated in a lab reorganisation project to improve throughput and structure
- Supervised junior lab staff and supported their training
- Interpreted analytical results, flagged abnormalities, and liaised with QA teams
- Maintained full compliance with internal quality assurance protocols
Education
BSc - Applied Biology
Manchester Metropolitan University
Manchester /1992 - 01.1995
Diploma in Brewing and Packaging - Scientific Modules Included
IBD
IOSH Managing Safely - Health & Safety
HSQE
Authentic Leader Development Programme - undefined
CQM Training and Consultancy
Skills
- Clinical sample handling and preparation
- Microbiological analysis
- Chemical analysis
- Physical analysis
- Quality control
- LIMS data entry
- Laboratory safety
- COSHH protocols
- Hygiene protocols
- SOP development
- Reagent preparation
- Media preparation
- Equipment maintenance
- Equipment calibration
- Inventory management
- Lab supplies ordering
- Collaborative teamwork
- Cross-functional communication
- Strong IT skills
- MS Word
- Excel
- LIMS systems
Additional Information
First Aid & Mental Health First Aider, Fire Warden, Full, Clean UK Driving Licence, Excellent organisational and problem-solving skills, Experienced in high-pressure lab environments with prioritisation and multitasking
Timeline
Brewing Quality Technician – Quality & Microbiological Testing
Frederic Robinsons Brewery
10.2013 - 07.2025
Senior Packaging Laboratory Technician
Daniel Thwaites
05.1997 - 07.2013
Diploma in Brewing and Packaging - Scientific Modules Included
IBD
IOSH Managing Safely - Health & Safety
HSQE
Authentic Leader Development Programme - undefined
CQM Training and Consultancy
BSc - Applied Biology
Manchester Metropolitan University
/1992 - 01.1995
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