Arija Makela-Harms
Phoenixville,PA
Summary
Biochemistry graduate with expertise in molecular biology, microbiology, and laboratory techniques. Skilled in cGMP and GLP compliance and committed to advancing research and innovation in the life sciences sector. Proven ability to reliably scale output under pressure and deliver innovative solutions while also maintaining rigorous standards in collaborative settings.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Research Technician
PerkinElmer
Collegeville, Pennsylvania
07.2025 - Current
- Supported R&D initiatives by formulating recipe-based media, buffers, and mobile phases in adherence with cGMP and GLP regulatory standards.
- Followed established protocols and collaborated with R&D scientists to determine an appropriate method to prepare reagents for experiments
- Navigated LabWare LIMS and Signals ELN software to execute and record complex preparation methods, ensuring meticulous and accurate documentation.
- Optimized personal workflow to achieve a 160% increase in personal production volume to bridge coverage gaps and minimize downtime in R&D initiatives.
- Managed inventory of frequently used reagents for both GxP and non-GxP spaces, optimizing laboratory workflows and ensuring adherence to protocols.
- Implemented creative solutions that improved performance, yield, and reliability while optimizing existing process flows.
Starbucks Shift Lead
Aramark
Clemson, South Carolina
02.2022 - 04.2025
- Directed store operations for opening and closing shifts exceeding 20 hours weekly while ensuring compliance with established standards.
- Coordinated team efforts toward maintaining normal and efficient store operations and arranging solutions for unexpected events that disrupted normal store operations.
- Trained and assisted in the training of over 20 baristas, 4 other leads, and 2 supervisors to ensure awareness of the responsibilities for different barista positions and adherence to Starbucks standards.
- Assisted in inventory management and maintained stock levels for efficient service.
- Resolved customer complaints promptly to maintain a positive experience.
- Positioned skilled staff in key areas throughout shift to optimize department productivity.
Microbiology Intern
The Ritedose Corporation
Columbia, South Carolina
06.2024 - 08.2024
- Executed quality control checks utilizing microbiological testing of cultures obtained from bioburden, utilities, surfaces, air products, and personnel to ensure adherence to cGMP standards.
- Isolated and identified microorganisms such as yeasts, fungi, and bacteria by utilizing Vitek MS, Gram staining, and microscopic techniques
- Documented data in laboratory notebooks and SampleManager LIMS
- Managed laboratory operations of the microbial identification lab by performing routine housekeeping, including equipment calibration and inventory maintenance
- Performed a surface recovery study to aid in demonstrating the efficacy of microbiological testing methods in upholding appropriate cGMP standards
Leasing Consultant
The Collective at Clemson
Clemson, South Carolina
05.2023 - 08.2023
- Conducted property tours, showcasing amenities and community features.
- Supported leasing office operations by handling administrative tasks and improving customer satisfaction through prompt and clear communication via email, text, phone, and in-person discussions
- Managed resident information databases and ensured data integrity and confidentiality
Education
Bachelor of Science - Biochemistry
Clemson University
Clemson, SC05-2025
Skills
- Laboratory instrumentation and techniques
- Data analysis
- Quality control
- Effective communication
- Microbial cell culture
- Team collaboration
- Client relations
- Regulatory compliance
- Adaptability
- Critical thinking
Conference Presentations
Identifying and analyzing genome sequences of potential biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) from ten different strains of Streptomyces to produce a novel antibiotic., South Carolina Junior Academy of Science Conference, 04/01/21, Virtual, Poster presentation
Research Projects
Natural Product Research Student, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 05/01/20, 08/01/20, Learned from and assisted Dr. Jie Li in natural product research by using bioinformatics tools to identify and analyze genome sequences of potential biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs)
Timeline
Research Technician
PerkinElmer
07.2025 - Current
Microbiology Intern
The Ritedose Corporation
06.2024 - 08.2024
Leasing Consultant
The Collective at Clemson
05.2023 - 08.2023
Starbucks Shift Lead
Aramark
02.2022 - 04.2025
Bachelor of Science - Biochemistry
Clemson University