IZZAT TEKLU
Summary
Recent graduate with a dual background in Cell & Molecular Biology and Chemistry, currently applying scientific skillset in an industrial lab setting at Amway. Passionate about working in collaborative environments; teamwork makes the dream work after all!
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Microbiology Laboratory Technician
Amway
03.2024 - Current
- Supported United States Food and Drug Administration and Korean Ministry of Food & Drug Safety lab audits
- Maintained a monthly 96% and above successful turn-around-time for sample testing during the 2024 calender year.
- Collaboratively worked towards a 100% successful testing turn-around-time by the second quarter of 2025 while managing a 50% sample volume increase.
- Performed microbiological testing, documented and reported results of raw materials and finished goods in line with regulative standards.
- Followed SOPs for microbiological test methods and updated documents when needed.
- Maintained clean, safe lab conditions adhering to GMP and GLP guidelines.
- Participated in team meetings and collaborated with peers to continually improve workflow in a dynamic, fast-paced, growing environment.
- Achieved 'certified trainer' status achieved for role within 12 months.
Undergraduate Research Assistant
Grand Valley State University
10.2021 - 04.2023
- Conducted collaborative research to identify the roles of 7 cell signaling genes in Schmidtea mediterranea (planarian flat-worm) behavior.
- Executed various chemistry & molecular biology techniques, such as, PCR, gel electrophoresis, and bacterial transformation while maintaining >95% yield or efficacy.
- Maintained aseptic technique while performing tests.
- Designed, tested, and refined experimental assays within scope of research project.
- Maintained meticulous lab records in lab notebook as well as general lab procedures in LIMS.
- Handled thousands non-native species of planarian worms in strict accordance to Michigan DNR and MDARD.
Undergraduate Teaching Assistant
Grand Valley State University
09.2022 - 12.2022
- Demonstrated and taught essential lab techniques such as micropipetting, gel electrophoresis, PCR, microscopy, cell culture, DNA extraction, and proper aseptic technique.
- Supported grading of lab reports, quizzes, or assignments, providing constructive feedback to help students strengthen scientific communication skills.
- Participated in faculty meetings to ensure 100% of the syllabus was completed within 16-week allocated time frame.
- Helped maintain a clean and efficient learning environment and encored laboratory safety guidelines.
- Provided extra assistance by developing video-based training materials by recording laboratory procedures to help students learn and practice essential lab techniques.
Project Researcher
Grand Valley State University
10.2021 - 02.2023
- Studied the impact of the knockdown of 5 genes involved in cell signaling.
- Isolated genes from plasmids, replicated via PCR, and knocked down in flatworms using RNAi.
- Designed 3 behavioral experiments and performed tests.
- Collected, analyzed and presented promising findings at annual CMB Symposium.
- Won 'Speaker of the Day' award.
Education
B.S. - Cell and Molecular Biology, Chemistry
Grand Valley State University
Allendale, MI04.2023
Skills
- Government audit support
- GMP and GLP compliance
- Aseptic technique and sterility testing
- SOP adherence and data documentation
- Experimental design and lab safety
- Calibration and maintenance of lab equipment
- Lab Information Management System & Microsoft Office proficiency
- Microbiology, Molecular Biology & Chemistry lab assays
Awards
- Outstanding CMB Student, Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, 2019
- Community Service Hours, Dr. Wallsteadt - KCTC Biomedical Technology & Research program, 02/01/23
Timeline
Microbiology Laboratory Technician
Amway
03.2024 - Current
Undergraduate Teaching Assistant
Grand Valley State University
09.2022 - 12.2022
Undergraduate Research Assistant
Grand Valley State University
10.2021 - 04.2023
Project Researcher
Grand Valley State University
10.2021 - 02.2023
B.S. - Cell and Molecular Biology, Chemistry
Grand Valley State University