Kaitlyn Macleod Email & Phone Number

Expanded food production lab in preparation for ISO 17025 Accreditation audit and surveillance audits. Analyzed food samples using standardized methods based on instruction provided by FDA, USDA, and AOAC guidelines. Performed various screening procedures using equipment such as PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) and VIDAS. Trained and supported all team members across multiple disciplines, including microbiology, chemistry, and office administration.Key Accomplishments:• Conducted quality assurance inspections to maintain integrity and accuracy of results, ensuring clients meet their goals of preventing illness and public health issues, minimizing lawsuits, and preventing product recalls.• Executed validation studies to assess effectiveness of client procedures and verification of new or modified test methods.

Performed routine daily microbiological testing of food products for local, national, and international production clients.Senior team member responsible for training across multiple disciplines, document and data review, and performing pathogen screening techniques using PCR systems and other test methods.Key Accomplishments:• Assisted management team implementing corrective actions, improving efficiency, and identifying preventive actions.• Independent lead technician on weekend and specialty shifts, ensuring all results are accurate and delivered to clients within time constrictions.

Portland, Oregon Area

Provided quality assurance review of sanitation efforts within the food production environment.Completed routine quality assurance checks for key elements that affect food quality and safety, including metal detection, packaging requirements, and allergen testing. Audited manufacturing lines, cold and dry supply storage, and plant employees to ensure compliance with applicable safety standards and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs).Key Accomplishments:• Inspected machines and equipment used in food production in compliance with FDA and USDA regulations.

Corpus Christi, Texas Area

▪ Directed and led 36 nursing and biology students on how to conduct laboratory experiments, perform scientific analyses and write technical reports based on experiment results. Using industry expertise, taught students how to perform basic microbiology skills.

Portland, Oregon Area

 Prepared food samples following multiple standardized methods designed to detect and isolate microorganisms. Followed standard operating procedures as outlined by the FDA and USDA. Interpreted test results while maintaining detailed records of observations.

Corvallis, Oregon Area

▪ Assisted two plant pathologists who provided diagnostic services and scientific results that helped local community (farmers, nursery owners and general public) prevent the spread of plant diseases. ▪ Prepared plant samples to isolate and promote the growth of potentially pathogenic fungi and bacteria. ▪ Managed the MSDS project to ensure compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations. Conducted an inventory of 100 chemicals and was responsible for creating new MSDS forms for 40 chemicals and updating existing forms.▪ Performed quality control checks and conducted extensive research about the hazards and potential harm as well as confirm the MSDS information was accurate to minimize health and safety issues.

Newport, Or

▪ Represented the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and provided independent, third party observations of onshore fish processing plants to ensure that all activities adhered to the fishery management plan for the Pacific Hake fishery.▪ Performed duties including collection of biological data such as catch effort from ocean commercial fisheries through monitoring, observation and fish identification. Provided accurate bycatch data to comply with fishery management plan and NOAA requirements. ▪ Identified salmon species, detected coded wire tags, and collected biological data (weights, male/female).▪ Reported biological field data on a daily basis to fisheries managers and NOAA representatives.▪ Taught an ethnically diverse team of plant workers fish species identification using multiple methods.

Master’S Degree, Marine Biology

Activities and Societies: My thesis research was conducted in the neuroscience lab under the direction of Dr. Riccardo Mozzachiodi.

Bachelor’S Degree, Biology, General