Blake Restivo
Cleveland,TX
Summary
Currently a junior at the University of Houston majoring in chemistry and minoring in physics. Multiple years of research experience and lab work. Knowledgable regarding analytical techniques, data analysis, quality assurance, and research methods.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
2026
2026
years of post-secondary education
Work History
Undergraduate Student Researcher
University of Houston
Houston, TX
01.2026 - Current
- Conducted literature reviews to gather relevant research materials.
- Collected and analyzed data using statistical software tools.
- Collaborated with faculty on ongoing research projects.
QA/QC Lab Technician
Synder Filtration
Conroe, Texas
10.2024 - Current
- Conducted routine quality control tests on filtration products.
- Maintained laboratory equipment and ensured proper calibration.
- Documented test results and maintained accurate records.
- Collaborated with team members on quality assurance processes.
- Assisted in developing standard operating procedures for testing protocols.
- Analyzed samples using various laboratory techniques and tools.
- Evaluated data generated from testing activities; prepared reports summarizing results.
- Reviewed documents such as test reports, batch records, QC specifications for accuracy prior to release of product batches to ensure compliance with applicable standards.
- Resolved technical issues associated with laboratory instruments or procedures through troubleshooting techniques.
- Verified expiration dates on reagents and chemicals used during testing activities; replaced outdated items promptly.
- Assisted in the development of SOPs related to laboratory operations, equipment maintenance, calibration schedules and safety practices.
- Trained other personnel on proper operation of laboratory instruments and techniques used in testing activities.
- Identified opportunities for process improvements by implementing lean initiatives within the Quality Control Laboratory environment.
Undergraduate Student Researcher
Lone Star College System
Montgomery, TX
03.2024 - 04.2025
- Headed biochemical research on local, wild-fungi to monitor efficacy in hydrocarbon degradation
- Utilized sterile culturing techniques to propagate and store fungal colonies
- Used solvent-based extractions and laboratory machinery to isolate secondary metabolites for analysis
- Utilized gas chromatography, infrared spectroscopy, and microscopy to acquire data
- Proposed a budget and timeline to the school
- Received an undergraduate research grant from the Lone Star College - Montgomery, Undergraduate Research Institute (URI)
- Coordinate between the biotech and chemistry departments to account for equipment usage, laboratory time, and take account of consumables/reagents
- Summarized methodology and findings into a poster-presentation format
- Presented research at the 2025 National Conference on Undergraduate Research (NCUR) in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Published in Writing Across Curriculum (WAC)
- https://www.woodlandsonline.com/npps/story.cfm?nppage=81436
Prep Cook
Outback Steakhouse
Shenandoah, TX
03.2021 - 07.2023
- Prepared ingredients following Outback Steakhouse recipes and standards.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of kitchen workstations and storage areas.
- Assisted in inventory management by tracking ingredient supplies and freshness.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Chemistry
University of Houston
Houston, TX 08.2025 - 02.2026
Associate of Science - Chemistry
Lone Star College
Houston, TX 08.2019 - 12.2024
Klein High School
Spring, TXSkills
- Spectroscopy experience (UV-vis, infrared (IR), NMR, mass spec)
- Chromatography experience (GC, HPLC)
- Analytical Chemistry
- Fungal culturing
- Strong mathematics background
- Research methods
- Quality assurance
- Team work/coordination
- Proficient written and verbal communication
Timeline
Undergraduate Student Researcher
University of Houston
01.2026 - Current
Bachelor of Science - Chemistry
University of Houston
08.2025 - 02.2026
QA/QC Lab Technician
Synder Filtration
10.2024 - Current
Undergraduate Student Researcher
Lone Star College System
03.2024 - 04.2025
Prep Cook
Outback Steakhouse
03.2021 - 07.2023
Associate of Science - Chemistry
Lone Star College
08.2019 - 12.2024
Klein High School