Summary
Overview
Work history
Education
Skills
Additional Information
Timeline
Generic

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
Cath Mercer