Profile
Carmen Whitehead
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About Me:
I was born and raised in Australia and moved to England almost seven years ago. I really enjoy the cool weather over here. Last time I went back to Australia it got up to 42 degrees!
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I live in Stockport with my husband and three cats. In my spare time I enjoy playing Nintendo Switch, mostly the new Pokémon Scarlet game. I also enjoy drawing and painting, as well as trying new foods. I’ve really been enjoying hot pot lately!
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My pronouns are:
she/her
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My Work:
I’m the subject matter expert for the PCR instrument (replicates DNA) at a large biotechnology company. I need to know how the instrument works and how to use it, along with the three different software versions that are used to run it.
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The team I am part of is responsible for system development and life cycle management of QIAGEN’s instruments. We are the knowledge experts for the systems and what they are capable of doing.
My role includes organising studies to test impact of changes, such as instrument parts, customer support for users of the instrument, and provide ideas for system improvements.
I also support our research team during development of new tests (assays) that are to be done on the instrument. This includes support during studies or experiments, training new staff, helping out with troubleshooting, and answering any questions they might have.
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My Typical Day:
I tend not to have a ‘typical’ day. No two days are the same. Generally, I have a task that takes priority and I focus on that, while other smaller tasks or questions get sent my way to be sorted out.
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I usually start my work day off by checking my emails and messages. Then I will organise my day and prioritise the tasks I have been set. My day can consist of reviewing documents, such as looking over a user manual for the PCR instrument and then getting it ready to be released to our customers. Throughout the day I will get messages from our research department that will need to be answered promptly, so these will take priority for a little while. Sometimes, I’ll even pop into the lab to have a play with some of the software or instruments. It depends on deadlines for certain tasks as to what takes priority.
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What I'd do with the prize money:
Support a local STEM Club. Hopefully, the money could be used for an excursion or new equipment for the club to let students explore all aspects of Science!
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Education:
Churchlands Senior High School – Western Australia
Edith Cowan University – Western Australia -
Qualifications:
Churchlands Senior High School – Western Australia – 2001
High School Certificate, similar to A-levels.Edith Cowan University – Western Australia
Bachelor of Science (Human Biology) – 2002-2005
Graduate Diploma of Education (Major-Science, Minor-Health Education) – 2015 -
Work History:
Scientist – Apis Assay Technologies – 2019-2023
Science Technician – Loreto High School, Chorlton – 2017-2019
Technical Assistant – PathWest Laboratory Medicine WA – 2007-2017
Cashier – Big W – 2005-2007
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Current Job:
Senior Scientist – QIAGEN – 2023-present
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Employer:
QIAGEN
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My Interview
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How would you describe yourself in 3 words?
Cat-loving Molecular Biologist
What did you want to be after you left school?
I had no idea!
Were you ever in trouble at school?
Just for small things, talking etc.
If you weren't doing this job, what would you choose instead?
I might have been an accountant instead!
Who is your favourite singer or band?
I have loved Blink 182 since I was in high school!
What's your favourite food?
Japanese food
If you had 3 wishes for yourself what would they be? - be honest!
For myself and my family to live comfortably, my three cats to be healthy and to be able to speak and understand every language in the world.
Tell us a joke.
Why are chickens so fun? Be-cause!
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