Alexis Mercado
Lincoln,NE
Summary
Microbiology Scientist with 5+ years of laboratory experience in microbiology, aseptic techniques, and regulated environments (GLP/GMP). Skilled in designing and executing microbiological assays, troubleshooting contamination issues, and validating new methods for product safety and R&D. Experienced in authoring SOPs, study protocols, and technical reports with minimal supervision. Recognized for strong data analysis, cross-department collaboration, and training of junior staff to improve laboratory performance.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
QC Analyst
Haleon
Lincoln, NE
12.2022 - Current
- Independently conduct 60+ microbiological assays monthly on raw materials, in-process, and finished products, ensuring product safety across various product lines.
- Validates new suitability testing methods for raw materials, improving accuracy of microbial detection.
- Authored monthly compliance reports (BMS monitoring, negative control investigations) and presented findings to QA and manufacturing leadership.
- Led microbial contamination investigations, identifying root causes and recommending corrective actions adopted in production.
- Trained new analysts in aseptic technique, microbial testing, and regulatory documentation.
- Ensured adherence to GLP/GMP standards through meticulous record keeping, data auditing, and deviation reporting.
- Prepared technical reports and presented findings to cross-functional R&D and QA teams.
Food-Micro./ Dairy Laboratory Scientist
Nebraska State Gov. - Dept. Of Agriculture
Lincoln, NE
01.2021 - 11.2022
- Served as lead analyst for state pathogen surveillance, conducting 500+ tests annually on Salmonella, E. coli O157:H7, and Listeria monocytogenes using FDA-approved methods.
- Designed and executed microbiological assays for Staphylococcus aureus, yeast, mold, and coliforms, supporting outbreak investigations across Nebraska.
- Coordinated multi-lab audits across 7 soil laboratories; compiled proficiency reports and validated testing accuracy to maintain regulatory compliance.
- Implemented updated FDA detection methods, ensuring statewide adoption and improved outbreak response times.
- Managed dairy program screening for antibiotic residues, calibrating and maintaining laboratory equipment to support accuracy of testing results contributing to animal health surveillance.
- Reviewed SOPs, conducted proficiency testing, and provided technical oversight for laboratory staff.
Lab Assistant
Neogen Corp.
Lincoln, NE
08.2020 - 01.2021
- Processed and prepared 1,000+ samples for purification with 100% compliance to aseptic procedures, enabling accurate downstream assays.
- Calibrated and maintained equipment to guarantee reliability of results during high-throughput testing.
- Managed sample inventory and ensured compliance with safety regulations for hazardous chemicals.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Microbiology
University of Nebraska
Lincoln, NESkills
- Cell Culture
- Microbiology, Virology, Immunology
- Aseptic Techniques & Environmental Monitoring
- Protein Isolation, PCR, ELISA
- SOP Development & Protocol Writing
- Regulatory Compliance (GLP/GMP, FDA Methods)
- Data Analysis & Statistical Methods
- Report Writing & Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Pathogen Detection (Salmonella, Listeria, E coli, Staphylococcus)
Certification
- First Aid/CPR Certified
- Lean Six Sigma Certified Yellow Belt
- Shipping Infectious Substances and Related Materials Training
LANGUAGES
Spanish, Bilingual, Native Speaker
Timeline
QC Analyst
Haleon
12.2022 - Current
Food-Micro./ Dairy Laboratory Scientist
Nebraska State Gov. - Dept. Of Agriculture
01.2021 - 11.2022
Lab Assistant
Neogen Corp.
08.2020 - 01.2021
Bachelor of Science - Microbiology
University of Nebraska