Tyler C. Buck
*** *. *** **. #* Cambridge, IA ***46
*************@*****.***
OBJECTIVE
To obtain a position in analytical research
EDUCATION
Iowa State University January 2003 – December 2007
B.S. Biology
Skills
Laboratory analysis, Seed testing, Molecular biology techniques, Quality assurance, Production processes, Greenhouse management, and Wet chemistry analysis
WORK EXPERIENCE
Eurofins Scientific February 2023 – May 2024
Laboratory Analyst II
Performing testing utilizing the Kjeltec method to determine total protein and dietary fiber in food and beverage samples.
Identify from samples assayed the need for rechecks and performing out-of-spec (OOS) investigations and non-conformance investigations.
Maintaining a neat and accurate record system and keeping records of work performed on a daily basis and records for quality control and regulatory purposes.
Operate, maintain, troubleshoot, and clean sophisticated instruments such as Kjeltec protein analyzers and acid digestors with minimal supervision.
Identify method/matrix/analytical difficulties and report these together with proposed solution to department and technical leaders.
Iowa State University-Seed Science Center April 2021 – January 2023
Contract Seed Analyst
Utilizing standardized testing procedures to evaluate seed quality in a variety of crops based on AOSA, ISTA and Canadian rules. Heavy focus on Cold Tests, Sand Cold Tests and Germination examinations
Identifying and understanding of seed morphology, physiological and early growth characteristics of agriculture seeds
Monitor for irregularities in seed or seedling test results, media, equipment, temperatures and the laboratory.
Plant germination nests from large seed to small seed, in accordance with AOSA and ISTA rules, utilizing a variety of media.
Ensure to correctly enter all testing data/results in LIMs and verify the accuracy of the entered data.
Corteva Agriscience (Contractor) March 2019 – November 2019
Research Associate PCR Production
Developed and followed standard procedures for set up of laboratory experiments using custom software tools and multiple instrument platforms.
Strong working knowledge and experience with DNA and RNA isolation, PCR, and RNA handling and daily experience with multichannel pipetting, or automated liquid handlers (e.g. BioTek and Tecan)
Planned and executed experiments efficiently and accurately in order to generate high quality data to researchers by established deadlines.
Exercised independent and team judgment to address problems and recommend actions to be taken in support of experiment troubleshooting and root cause remediation.
American Packaging Corporation September 2016 – February 2019
Quality Assurance
Ensured the products of Flexible Packaging are meeting strict thresholds of acceptability of our customers in a fast-paced production environment.
Assisted with planning, directing and coordinating quality assurance programs.
Interacted with printing operators to quickly fix and make up for any lost product.
Regularly worked to improve our own efficiency and profitability by reducing waste, implementing recycling partnerships and locating additional raw material providers
Monsanto (Contractor) February 2016 – August 2016
Research Associate
Conducted experiments and assisted with the daily production of qPCR analysis of plant seed chips and tissue.
Performed regular QA/QC maintenance and troubleshooting of high automation lab equipment.
Thrived on meeting production challenges while demonstrating effective problem-solving skills and responsibility.
Communicated and worked with management and colleagues to ensure accurate and on-time completion of projects.
Forage Genetics (Land O’Lakes) August 2015 – February 2016
Research Associate
Received, verified, and labeled all incoming samples and prepared them to be processed and analyzed.
Responsible for preparing and running samples on NIRS and handled wet chemistry techniques and processes of GC/MS, ICP and HPLC
Ensured proper adherence to SOP and safety procedures.
Compiled, organized, and ensured accuracy of test results and saving them to LIMs.
Self Employed June 2012 – February 2015
Greenhouse Manager
Performed all tasks ranging from cloning, transplanting, feeding plants, defoliation, cropping, topping, flushing and inventory management.
Managed working crew of up to 10 employees
Developed and maintained greenhouse protocols and nutrient regime.
Executed preventative maintenance and elimination of all types of molds, mildew, plant disease and insects.
Extensive knowledge of soil growing methods including micronutrients, beneficial bacteria, and nutrient implementation
Aerotek Scientific June 2010 – June 2012
Scientific Recruiter/Recruiter Lead/Account Recruiting Manager
Oversight of the full recruitment process, including interfacing with potential candidates sourced from job boards, databases, personal networks and referrals to screen applicants’ technical competence, applicable background, and skills and present fitting candidates to clients
Responsible for candidate on-boarding process, including face-to-face and telephone interviews, performing reference checks, background checks and on-boarding documentation
Develop recruiting strategies and travel to scientific conferences, meetings and job fairs
Monsanto April 2008 – June 2010
Analytical Research/Wet Chemist
Method development and analysis of agricultural GMO seed using GC-MS, UV, HPLC and ICP wet chemistry techniques.
Assisted with equipment maintenance and calibration.
Requested and tracked raw materials from vendors and company products.
Maintained proper lab notebook and updated LIMs and other company records.
Provided regular progress and technical reports.