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Keelan Johnson

@keelanjohnson

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Experienced virology QC analyst specializing in lab validation and process improvements.

Ireland

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What I'm looking for

I’m seeking a senior QC/virology role focused on lab start-up, validation, and process improvement in a regulated, collaborative environment that values quality, training, and technical ownership.

I am a results-driven virology and QC subject matter expert with over seven years' experience in viral, microbial and aseptic techniques and laboratory administration. I specialize in QC analysis, test method development, equipment qualification, and document validation.

I was a principal member of Merck's Blarney start-up project, leading LIMS implementation, IOQ/OQ/PQ/TMV activities, LRV bacteriophage testing, and technical transfers. I regularly prepare Laboratory Investigation Reports and RCAis, manage deviations and change controls, and support internal and external audits.

I mentor colleagues, chair safety and QC Gemba meetings, author SOPs and test methods, and seek senior QC/virology roles where I can drive lab start-ups, process improvements, and strong compliance in regulated environments.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

SME Virology Analyst

Current

Merck Millipore

Jan 2023 - Present (2 years 8 months)

Primary member of the Merck Blarney start-up project and SME for SMG and PTL virology labs, leading LIMS, OSI PI and ALM implementation. Managed IOQ/OQ/PQ/TMV, equipment commissioning, authored SOPs, mentored staff and supported audits.

LIMS ALM Phage Assays MES

QC Laboratory Analyst (Phage)

Merck Millipore

Jan 2020 - Jan 2023 (3 years)

Performed bacteriophage-based LRV, bioburden and endotoxin testing and maintained regular equipment calibrations while serving as laboratory Safety Representative and Advanced First Aider. Authored test methods, prepared LIRs/RCAi, trained staff and enabled full cross-training within 3 months.

Bacteriophage Assays Equipment Calibration LIR RCAi LIMS SAP EHS Staff Training

QC Laboratory Analyst (Microbiology)

Merck Millipore

Jan 2018 - Jan 2020 (2 years)

Performed endotoxin, bioburden, bacterial retention and membrane specification testing using multiple microbial cultures and supported GMP-compliant lab operations. Managed equipment maintenance, developed SOPs and supported internal and external audits.

Membrane Testing Culture Techniques SOP Development Equipment Maintenance Microbiology Assays

Laboratory Teaching Assistant

Maynooth University

Jan 2017 - Jan 2018 (1 year)

Taught and supervised university biology practicals, developed lesson plans and assessed student performance while enforcing lab safety and GMP protocols. Demonstrated and graded practical techniques and provided feedback to improve student outcomes.

Teaching Lab Safety Assessments Lesson planning

Laboratory Research Student

Maynooth University

Jan 2016 - Jan 2017 (1 year)

Conducted MSc proteomics research on hepatic resistance using techniques including SDS-PAGE, HPLC, ELISA and mass spectrometry while following GMP and laboratory safety protocols. Prepared and analyzed protein samples and documented experimental results.

Proteomics SDS Antibody Labelling

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

Maynooth University

Master of Science, Immunology and Global Health

Grade: 1st Class Honours

Activities and societies: Research project: 'A proteomic analysis of hepatic resistance to Ascaris in a murine model'; Applied Proteomics Lab work.

Completed MSc in Immunology and Global Health with First Class Honours; research project: 'A proteomic analysis of hepatic resistance to Ascaris in a murine model' in the Applied Proteomics Lab.

University of Limerick

Bachelor of Science, Equine Science

Grade: 1st Class Honours

Activities and societies: Research project: 'Natural Food Supplements as Flavor Enhancers in the Horses’ Diet'; modules included Advanced Virology, Oncology, Bioinformatics, Advanced Anatomy & Physiology, Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Biostatistics, Genomics and applications, Developmental Genetics, Tumor Biology and Antiviral Immunity, Cancer Biology.

Completed Bachelor of Science in Equine Science with First Class Honours; final year research project on natural food supplements as flavor enhancers in the horses' diet.