Tell us about a time when you encountered an unexpected issue in the laboratory and how you resolved it.

During my time working as a Biological Technician, I encountered an unexpected issue in the laboratory while conducting a PCR experiment. I realized that we were running out of a crucial reagent that was needed for the experiment to proceed. This was a problem because the reagent was not readily available in the lab. To resolve the issue, I quickly contacted our supplier and explained the situation. I was able to persuade them to deliver the reagent on an urgent basis, and they agreed. While waiting for the reagent to arrive, I reorganized my schedule and prioritized other experiments that did not require the specific reagent. When the reagent finally arrived, I immediately resumed the PCR experiment and successfully completed it.

As a Biological Technician, I once encountered an unexpected issue in the laboratory when the PCR machine malfunctioned in the middle of an important experiment. This was a critical problem because the experiment was time-sensitive and the results were needed for an upcoming presentation. To resolve the issue, I immediately informed my supervisor and sought assistance from our lab technician. Together, we quickly assessed the problem and identified a faulty component in the PCR machine. We contacted the manufacturer and explained the situation. The manufacturer agreed to send a replacement part overnight to minimize the delay. In the meantime, I optimized my schedule and focused on other experiments that did not require the PCR machine. Once the replacement part arrived, I worked closely with the lab technician to install it and ensure that the PCR machine was functioning properly again. We were able to complete the experiment successfully, and the results were available in time for the presentation.

As a Biological Technician, I faced an unexpected issue in the laboratory when we discovered contamination in our cell culture. It was a challenging situation because the contaminated cells were part of a long-term experiment that required weeks of preparation. To address the issue, I immediately isolated the contaminated cells and preserved uncontaminated samples for future use. I investigated the possible source of contamination and implemented stricter aseptic techniques, such as using a laminar flow hood and regularly sterilizing equipment. I also collaborated with other technicians to review our laboratory protocols and identified areas for improvement to prevent similar issues in the future. Additionally, I communicated the situation to my supervisor and proposed a revised timeline for the experiment, taking into account the setback caused by the contamination. Despite the setback, we were able to salvage the experiment and obtain meaningful results. The experience taught me the importance of meticulous attention to detail and the ability to adapt to unexpected challenges in a laboratory setting.