Provide an example of a challenging situation you have encountered during laboratory technician and how you successfully resolved it.
During my time as a laboratory technician, I encountered a challenging situation when I was tasked with performing a complex experiment that required precise temperature control. The experiment required maintaining a specific temperature range throughout, but the calibration of the temperature controller was inconsistent, leading to fluctuations and inaccurate readings.
To resolve this issue, I first reviewed the experiment protocol to ensure that all the necessary steps and parameters were accurate. I then observed the temperature controller's behavior closely and identified the discrepancies between the actual temperature and the displayed values. I meticulously documented these variations and consulted with my supervisor to discuss possible causes and solutions.
To address the problem, I recalibrated the temperature controller using a secondary reference thermometer and adjusted the controller's settings accordingly. I also established a routine procedure to periodically cross-verify the temperature using multiple thermometers to validate the accuracy of the readings.
Furthermore, I conducted multiple trial runs of the experiment, making sure to check and record the temperature at regular intervals to identify any inconsistencies. By closely monitoring the temperature changes and adapting my approach in real-time, I was able to mitigate the fluctuations and obtain reliable and consistent results.
Throughout this process, I maintained open communication with my supervisor, updating them on my progress, and sought their guidance whenever needed. Additionally, I documented the entire troubleshooting process and implemented measures such as routine temperature controller maintenance to prevent similar issues in the future.
Ultimately, my systematic approach to problem-solving, effective communication with the supervisor, and attention to detail helped me successfully resolve the challenging situation and conduct the experiment accurately and efficiently.