Rebecca Hegarty
Cork,Ireland
Summary
Microbiology Analyst with GMP pharmaceutical experience supporting QC operations, contamination control, validation activities, and microbiological compliance. Experienced in pour plates, TOC testing, bioburden analysis, SOS development, equipment qualification, and cross-functional collaboration within regulated manufacturing environments.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
9
9
years of post-secondary education
1
1
Certification
Work history
QC Microbiology Analyst
Eurofins PSS
Kinsale Eli Lilly Cork
2024.08 - Current
- Supported site expansion initiatives
- Experience with new method implementation
- Participation in qualification or commissioning support
- SOP development/revision- Participated in SOP revisions, deviation investigations and CAPA support
- Safety Risk assessments
- QC Readiness- Collaborated with QA, manufacturing and validation teams to ensure microbiological readiness
- Audit readiness- Protocol review
- Microbial Testing : Conducting tests on raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products to identify microbial contaminants or ensure sterility. Common tests include Bioburden ,Pour plates, coliforms and bottle preparation.
- Sample Preparation and Analysis : Preparing samples for testing by following strict protocols and using specialized equipment like autoclaves, incubators, and microscopes to detect and quantify microorganisms.
- Data Documentation and Reporting : Accurately documenting results, following SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures), and preparing reports on findings. This ensures compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements.
- Regulatory Compliance : Ensuring that all microbiological testing is conducted in accordance with GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices), GLP (Good Laboratory Practices), and relevant industry guidelines, including ISO or FDA regulations.
- Troubleshooting : Identifying and addressing any issues with test results, processes, or equipment, ensuring that all analytical methods are validated and functioning correctly.
- Cross-Department Collaboration : Working closely with other departments like production, R&D, and quality assurance to ensure that microbiological standards are integrated into the overall quality management system.
- Continuous Improvement : Staying current with industry trends, new technologies, and regulatory updates to improve testing processes and maintain high standards of product quality.
QC Laboratory Technician
Eurofins PSS
Kinsale Eli Lilly-Cork
2023.07 - 2024.08
- Assisted in the development of SOPs related to laboratory operations, equipment maintenance, calibration schedules and safety practices.
- Maintained laboratory equipment and instrumentation; performed preventative maintenance as needed.
- Conducted investigations into out-of-specification results; identified root cause of OOS results and implemented corrective actions.
- Documented all laboratory activities accurately in accordance with cGMP guidelines.
- Reviewed documents such as test reports, batch records, QC specifications for accuracy prior to release of product batches to ensure compliance with applicable standards.
- Ensured that all required documentation was completed accurately and timely to meet regulatory requirements.
- Implemented effective quality control systems to ensure compliance with company policies and procedures.
- Verified expiration dates on reagents and chemicals used during testing activities; replaced outdated items promptly.
- Participated in internal audits of the Quality Control Laboratory processes; provided feedback regarding areas needing improvement.
- Recorded lot numbers and serial numbers in ERP system for traceability of produced items.
- Monitored and upheld safe operating procedures and clean area mandates to meet regulatory requirements.
- Maintained lab cleanliness and safety standards.
- Calibrated, validated or maintained laboratory equipment.
Final-Year Project
University College Cork
2022.10 - 2023.12
- Analyzed and interpreted test results, identified contaminants, and recorded data in laboratory notebooks.
- Developed and implemented new protocols for sample preparation and analysis.
- Maintained accurate records of all experiments conducted in accordance with established guidelines.
- Prepared detailed reports summarizing experimental methods, results, conclusions, and recommendations.
- Evaluated existing methodologies for accuracy and reliability; modified or developed new techniques when needed.
- Understood and followed oral and written directions.
- Mixed chemicals to prepare solutions for plating processes.
- Monitored plating operations to ensure quality standards were met.
Retail Sales Associate & Till Lead
Homestore and More
Mahon Point
2020.09 - 2023.07
- Consistently met my short and long-term targets
- Handled customer complaints with empathy and composure
- Maintained and complied with strict and up to date policies regarding the COVID19 outbreak to ensure both employee safety and customer service Trained, coached, and supervised new staff members
- Confidently managed EPOS systems over a period of 3 years in retail stores, handling various transactions including the processing of refunds, returns, exchanges, as well as cash and card payments Extensive experience performing tasks with high energy and enthusiasm across shifts spanning 9 hours, including weekends and holidays
- Greeted customers, answered inquiries and explained promotions in a friendly manner.
- Balanced the till at the end of each shift with 100% accuracy.
- Maintained cleanliness of checkout area throughout shift.
- Handled all transactions with integrity and honesty.
Education
BSc - Genetics
University College Cork
Cork 2019.09 - 2023.05
Leaving Certificate -
The Ursuline Secondary School
Cork 2012.09 - 2018.06
Skills
- Teamwork & Leadership
- Problem-Solving
- Standardized Testing Methodology
- GMP Compliance & Quality SOP Development
- Laboratory Equipment Calibration
- Inspections, Reviews & Critical Thinking
- Laboratory Computer Systems
- Adaptability & Flexibility
- Total Organic Carbon Testing
- Pour Plate Methodology
- Bioburden Testing
- Water Sampling
- Method Validation Support
Certification
- Level 1 Swim Teaching Qualification
- Safeguarding Children Certification
Accomplishments
- Award for Top 3 Highest Leaving Cert Results
- Level 1 Swim teaching qualification
- Safeguarding course working with children
- Interway Idiomas Immersion Program
- Punctuality Award for Unbroken Attendance
- Hockey Team Captain
- Recognition for COVID-19 Pandemic Work
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
QC Microbiology Analyst
Eurofins PSS
2024.08 - Current
QC Laboratory Technician
Eurofins PSS
2023.07 - 2024.08
Final-Year Project
University College Cork
2022.10 - 2023.12
Retail Sales Associate & Till Lead
Homestore and More
2020.09 - 2023.07
BSc - Genetics
University College Cork
2019.09 - 2023.05
Leaving Certificate -
The Ursuline Secondary School
2012.09 - 2018.06