Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Affiliations
Interests
GBI Drug Identification analyses
Court Expert Testimony
Professional Developments: ISO Assessments
Timeline
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Michelle R. Peck

Michelle R. Peck

Chemist
Macon,GA

Summary

Experienced with conducting chemical experiments and analysis. Utilizes advanced laboratory techniques to achieve accurate and reliable results. Knowledge of regulatory compliance and safety protocols ensures high-quality outcomes with a proven track record of achieving impactful results through method development and process optimization. Strong collaborator, adaptable to dynamic environments, and consistently reliable in meeting project goals. Skilled in laboratory techniques, data interpretation, and safety protocols. Collaborative team player with strong focus on achieving results and adapting to changing project needs, leveraging expertise in chromatography and spectroscopy.

Overview

17
17
years of professional experience

Work History

Nutrition Chemist

United States Food and Drug Administration
01.2024 - Current
  • Conduct approximately 20 sample analysis per month to ensure regulatory compliance of food, infant formula, and dietary supplement products.
  • 100% on-time rate for sample analysis.
  • Coordinated and performed analytical tests to comply with established standards and specifications.
  • Cleaned and organized laboratory and kept supplies well-stocked to save time, money and promote laboratory efficiency.
  • Streamlined testing procedures, ensuring accurate results while minimizing turnaround time.
  • Contributed to team discussions and new project initiatives to advance progress and optimize efficiency.
  • Repaired, calibrated and safely operated laboratory equipment to reduce costly instrument downtime.
  • Performed technical laboratory functions in compliance with regulatory agencies and safety requirements.
  • Maintained organized, safe and efficient laboratory environment to minimize accidents and prevent cross contamination.

Assistant Manager

Georgia Bureau of Investigation
01.2023 - 01.2023
  • Led team initiatives to enhance case management efficiency across multiple investigations.
  • Developed training programs for new staff, improving onboarding processes and operational knowledge.
  • Streamlined reporting procedures, ensuring timely updates to stakeholders and compliance with regulations.
  • Collaborated with law enforcement agencies to coordinate joint operations and share intelligence effectively.
  • Implemented performance metrics, tracking progress on cases and identifying areas for improvement in workflows.
  • Facilitated regular meetings to assess team performance, fostering open communication and collaborative problem-solving.
  • Supervised day-to-day operations to meet performance, quality and service expectations.
  • Developed strong working relationships with staff, fostering a positive work environment.
  • Promoted teamwork within the workplace by encouraging collaboration among staff members on various project tasks.
  • Coached new employees, ensuring smooth onboarding process and quicker adaptation to their roles.
  • Conducted performance evaluations and provided constructive feedback to employees.

Crime Laboratory Scientist III Master

Georgia Bureau of Investigation
01.2020 - 01.2023
  • Conducted complex chemical analyses using advanced laboratory instrumentation and techniques.
  • Ensured compliance with safety regulations and quality standards in laboratory operations.
  • Collaborated with law enforcement to interpret forensic evidence for criminal investigations.
  • Trained junior staff on laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and equipment operation.
  • Led cross-functional teams in implementing new technologies to streamline workflows and improve results.
  • Performed pre-analytical, analytical and post-analytical processing procedures.
  • Performed complex troubleshooting and assisted in leading initiatives to solve challenging scientific problems with instrumentation.
  • Followed strict safety protocols, protecting staff and assets while carrying out technical procedures and research protocols.
  • Trained new employees on areas of technical expertise and compliance issues relevant to lab setting.
  • Mentored junior staff members, sharing expertise through hands-on training and guidance on best practices in the lab setting.
  • Followed health and safety regulations while handling dangerous or toxic substances.
  • Maintained accurate documentation of experiments and results, ensuring data integrity and facilitating easy access for future reference or audits.
  • Performed accurate quantitative analysis of targeted data research, collection and report preparation.
  • Improved sample turnaround time by optimizing workflows and prioritizing tasks based on urgency.

Crime Laboratory Scientist III Senior

Georgia Bureau of Investigation
01.2016 - 01.2020
  • Conducted complex analyses of forensic samples using advanced laboratory techniques and instrumentation.
  • Developed and implemented standard operating procedures to enhance laboratory efficiency and accuracy.
  • Mentored junior scientists in best practices for sample processing and data interpretation.
  • Collaborated with law enforcement agencies to provide expert testimony regarding forensic findings.
  • Managed quality control processes to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and accreditation requirements.
  • Analyzed data trends to identify areas for improvement in laboratory workflows and methodologies.
  • Led cross-functional teams to streamline laboratory operations, reducing turnaround times for test results.
  • Coordinated training sessions on new technologies and protocols for laboratory staff, fostering continuous learning culture.
  • Conducted routine maintenance on lab equipment, ensuring optimal performance and minimizing downtime due to malfunctions.
  • Monitored inventory levels proactively addressing shortages before they disrupted workflow.
  • Performed complex troubleshooting and assisted in leading initiatives to solve challenging scientific problems with instrumentation.
  • Trained new employees on areas of technical expertise and compliance issues relevant to lab setting.

Crime Laboratory Scientist III

Georgia Bureau of Investigation
01.2014 - 01.2016
  • Conducted complex analyses of biological samples using advanced laboratory techniques.
  • Developed and optimized protocols for forensic testing to enhance accuracy and efficiency.
  • Led training sessions for junior staff on laboratory safety and best practices.
  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to interpret test results and provide expert recommendations.
  • Implemented quality control measures to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
  • Oversaw inventory management of laboratory supplies, streamlining procurement processes.
  • Mentored new scientists, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and professional development.
  • Enhanced laboratory efficiency by streamlining processes and implementing innovative techniques.
  • Reviewed scientific literature regularly, staying current with industry trends and advancements in technology relevant to laboratory processes.
  • Mentored junior staff members, sharing expertise through hands-on training and guidance on best practices in the lab setting.
  • Continued to serve as the Safety Officer for the Central Regional Crime Laboratory, implementing initiatives that reduced workplace accidents.
  • Worked as member of integrated project team in highly collaborative work environment.
  • Followed health and safety regulations while handling dangerous or toxic substances.
  • Reviewed technical and professional publications and journals to stay current on recent literature and make more strategic research decisions.

Crime Laboratory Scientist II

Georgia Bureau of Investigation
01.2012 - 01.2014
  • Conducted detailed analysis of forensic evidence using advanced laboratory techniques and instrumentation.
  • Developed and validated standard operating procedures for various laboratory tests and protocols.
  • Mentored junior staff in analytical methodologies and laboratory best practices to enhance team performance.
  • Collaborated with law enforcement agencies to provide expert testimony regarding scientific findings in court proceedings.
  • Implemented quality control measures to ensure accuracy and reliability of test results across multiple cases.
  • Designed training programs for new laboratory personnel, focusing on safety protocols and operational efficiency.
  • Spearheaded initiatives to improve laboratory workflows, reducing turnaround time for forensic analyses significantly.
  • Performed complex experiments using advanced instruments such as mass spectrometers and chromatography systems for accurate results.
  • Maintained strict adherence to prescribed lab safety guidelines and operational instructions.
  • Troubleshot issues related to instrumentation calibration or sample preparation quickly identifying root causes mitigating impact on project timelines.
  • Served as the Safety Officer for the Central Regional Crime Lab in Macon, GA. In doing so I implemented initiatives that reduced workplace accidents.
  • Improved sample turnaround time by optimizing workflows and prioritizing tasks based on urgency.
  • Performed accurate quantitative analysis of targeted data research, collection and report preparation.

Crime Laboratory Scientist I

Georgia Bureau of Investigation
01.2009 - 01.2012
  • Conducted analyses of forensic samples using advanced laboratory equipment and techniques.
  • Developed and validated new testing methods to enhance accuracy and efficiency of lab processes.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and protocols.
  • Implemented quality control measures, resulting in improved reliability of test results across multiple projects.
  • Streamlined workflow procedures, reducing turnaround time for forensic analyses significantly.
  • Authored detailed reports summarizing findings, contributing to evidence used in criminal investigations.
  • Provided expert testimony on laboratory findings in court cases, ensuring clarity and understanding of scientific results.
  • Maintained accurate documentation of experiments and results, ensuring data integrity and facilitating easy access for future reference or audits.
  • Maintained a safe working environment, adhering to strict guidelines for handling hazardous materials.
  • Documented test results using computerized and manual transcription methods.

Education

Associate of Science - Chemistry

Georgia Perimeter College
Lawrenceville

Bachelor of Science - Chemistry

University of Georgia
Athens

Skills

  • Proficient in chromatography techniques
  • Analytical spectroscopy and spectrometry
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Laboratory techniques
  • Data interpretation
  • Quality control analysis
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Verbal and written communication skills
  • Time management and multitasking abilities
  • Critical thinking
  • Safety protocols

Accomplishments

    Completed the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) Technical Assessor Course in ISO/IEC 17025

    Trainer for the Marijuana Certified Examiner Course for Law Enforcement in the State of Georgia

    Trained in CPR/First Aid

    Completed the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Forensic Chemist Seminar

    Completed the Agilent Technologies Seminar, "Breaking Bad Chromatography Habits"

    Completed the course "Interpretation of Electron Ionization Spectra" by Agilent

    Completed the following courses from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Office of Training Education and Development (OTED)

  • Basic Food and Drug Law
  • Soft Skills for Professionals
  • Personal Safety & Interviewing

Affiliations

Southern Association of Forensic Scientists, 2018 - 2023

Interests

  • Avid Reader
  • I enjoy helping others and giving back to the community
  • Volunteer Travel
  • Exploring famous landmarks, historical sites, and cultural attractions in a new destination
  • I enjoy sketching and drawing, which helps improve my creativity and attention to detail
  • Youth Development Programs
  • Watching Movies and TV Shows
  • I like working with my hands and fixing things

GBI Drug Identification analyses

9,671 case sample analysis (as of June 30th, 2021)

Court Expert Testimony

  • Estimated 45 (as of December 2023)
  • U.S. Federal Court in Augusta (December 2023)
  • Counties in the State of Georgia include (but not limited to): Houston, Laurens, Lamar, Bibb, Worth, Coffee, Chatham, Twiggs, Dodge, Bleckley, Putnam, Crawford, Bulloch, Dooly, Newton, Glynn, Upson, Athens-Clarke County, Baldwin, McDuffie, Treutlen

Professional Developments: ISO Assessments

  • Completed the ANAB Technical Assessor Course (ISO/IEC 17025:2017) in 6-07-2019
  • Technical Assessor - ANAB External Assessment – Niagara County Sheriff's Office Forensic Laboratory, Lockport, New York 11-10-2021
  • Technical Assessor - ANAB External Assessment – Dallas County, Southwestern Institute of Forensic Sciences (SWIFS), Dallas, Texas 3-21-2022
  • Technical Assessor - ANAB External Assessment – U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Forensic Chemistry Center (FCC), Cincinnati, Ohio 8-14-2023
  • Technical Assessor - ANAB External Assessment – Laboratoire National de la Police Scientifique et Technique, Casablanca, Morocco 10-23-2023
  • Technical Assessor - ANAB External Assessment – Erie County Central Police Services Forensic Laboratory, Buffalo, New York 4-10-2024
  • Technical Assessor - ANAB External Assessment – Kentucky State Police Division of Forensic Services, Louisville & Madisonville, Kentucky 5-14-2024
  • Technical Assessor - ANAB External Assessment – Washington State Patrol Crime Laboratory Division, Spokane, Washington 2-6-2025
  • Technical Assessor - ANAB External Assessment – United States Drug Enforcement Administration, Atlanta, Georgia 7-31-2025

Timeline

Nutrition Chemist

United States Food and Drug Administration
01.2024 - Current

Assistant Manager

Georgia Bureau of Investigation
01.2023 - 01.2023

Crime Laboratory Scientist III Master

Georgia Bureau of Investigation
01.2020 - 01.2023

Crime Laboratory Scientist III Senior

Georgia Bureau of Investigation
01.2016 - 01.2020

Crime Laboratory Scientist III

Georgia Bureau of Investigation
01.2014 - 01.2016

Crime Laboratory Scientist II

Georgia Bureau of Investigation
01.2012 - 01.2014

Crime Laboratory Scientist I

Georgia Bureau of Investigation
01.2009 - 01.2012

Associate of Science - Chemistry

Georgia Perimeter College

Bachelor of Science - Chemistry

University of Georgia