ResTech Laboratories is proud to announce the success of our first graduate from the Future Chemist Development Program (FCDP), Max Smith. Max’s journey through the FCDP and his experiences at ResTech Laboratories provide a testament to the program’s effectiveness in nurturing talent and fostering growth within our organization. Let’s hear from Max himself:
I am thrilled to share that I have been fortunate enough to successfully complete an enriching week at Residue Technology Laboratories (RESTECH) as part of the Future Chemist Development Program, working under the guidance of Chief Chemist and NATA Technical Assessor, Alp Bekensir.
RESTECH is an industry leader in illicit drug analysis. During my time in their commercial analytical laboratory, I witnessed firsthand how advanced techniques are employed to detect drug residues such as methamphetamine, amphetamine, pseudoephedrine, and ephedrine in various properties. The manufacture of illicit substances is a growing issue in Australia, with serious health concerns if housing is contaminated. For more information on illicit drug contamination of properties, visit Environmental Health Australia.
This experience allowed me to delve into various aspects of laboratory operations, honing my skills in a real-world setting. Here are some highlights of my hands-on contributions:
ISO 8655 Pipette Calibration
I ensured the accuracy of the pipettes used by completing a pipette calibration, adhering to ISO 8655 standards. This meticulous process is crucial for maintaining precise measurements in analytical work.
LCMS Care and Maintenance
I learned the detailed care and maintenance of Agilent LCMS equipment, along with methodology programming. Proper maintenance of these sophisticated instruments is vital for obtaining reliable and accurate results.
ISO 17025 Tests and Calibration
I participated in ISO 17025 tests and complied with the calibration processes. This involvement was integral to the lab’s commitment to the validity and reliability of its analytical procedures.
Specimen Reception
I managed specimen reception, adhering to chain of custody requirements, which is essential for ensuring a smooth laboratory workflow and maintaining the integrity of samples.
Sample Preparation
I handled sample preparation, a crucial aspect of the analytical process. Ensuring accuracy and efficiency in this step is fundamental for obtaining valid results.
Preparation of Analytical Standards and Quality Control
I prepared and analyzed samples according to analytical standards, ensuring rigorous quality control measures were met to maintain the integrity of the data gathered.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank Alp and RESTECH for providing me with the chance to apply my existing skills and learn new ones in a real-world setting. This experience has been incredibly valuable, and I am excited for the year ahead and the opportunities to come!
Max’s journey and accomplishments highlight the success of our Future Chemist Development Program. At ResTech Laboratories, we are committed to providing our graduates with unparalleled opportunities to apply their knowledge, develop their skills, and make meaningful contributions to the field of analytical chemistry. We look forward to welcoming more aspiring chemists into the program and supporting their growth as they embark on their professional journeys.