Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Serene Ratu

ROTORUA

Summary

Bachelor of Product Design graduate with a major in Chemical Formulation, currently based in Rotorua working as an intern for Tura Te Ngakau gaining hands-on experience in fieldwork and scientific research within a unique ecological setting. My diverse educational background, encompassing design, business, and chemistry, provides me with a comprehensive skill set to approach challenges creatively, analytically, and with a deep understanding of scientific principles I've also worked on several projects that required me to apply my knowledge of chemical properties and interactions to create innovative and effective solutions. I am a passionate worker that is confident that I would be a valuable addition to your team.

Overview

4
4
years of professional experience

Work History

Intern

Tura Te Ngakau
, Rotorua
11.2023 - Current
  • Engaged in an insect-focused project in collaboration with the Iwi of Turi Ngāti Te Ngakau, Scion, Manaaki Whenua, Wilderlab and the University of Canterbury.
  • Utilized advanced trapping, sorting, and DNA extraction techniques to contribute to the creation of a comprehensive reference library.
  • This experience not only honed my expertise in molecular biology but also deepened my understanding of Māori perspectives and environmental conservation efforts.

Laboratory Technician

Hills Laboratories
, Hamilton
06.2023 - 11.2023
  • Undertaking day to day processing of laboratory samples and ensuring the efficient delivery of quality analytical services within the area of Waters Trace Elements.

Lab Assistant

Lincoln Agritech
01.2023 - 03.2023
  • Initially started in Rotorua working alongside SCION and Lincoln Agritech's biotechnology team researching plant health, mainly focusing on trichoderma and myrtle rust
  • Based in Lincoln, Christchurch; developing novel cellulose fibres alongside the companies new materials team
  • Cooperated with other technicians to develop and test new protocols.
  • Developed and implemented new protocols to improve accuracy of laboratory results.

Lab Assistant Intern

Lincoln Agritech
11.2021 - 02.2022
  • Participated in research projects by designing and executing experiments.
  • Monitored testing procedures to meet criteria and maintain quality control.
  • Prepared samples for analysis by performing complex sample preparation tasks.
  • Developed pigments from endemic plants, including Tawa

Social Organizer

University Of Canterbury
01.2020 - 12.2020
  • Brainstormed and implemented creative event concepts and themes for university students
  • Coordinated schedules and timelines for events.
  • Developed post-event reports to determine effectiveness of each event.
  • Managed event logistics and operations.

Tutor

Massey University
01.2020 - 11.2020
  • Assisted students by helping them understand content across a range of NCEA sciences
  • Worked closely with students on specific class struggles, closely reviewing materials and assignments to offer targeted help.
  • Conducted group tutoring sessions to help students engage active learning and critical thinking skills.

Kaitautoko

University Of Canterbury
01.2020 - 11.2020
  • Supported akonga māori at the university of canterbury into their first year of tertiary study
  • I was also responsible for leading and developing engagement initiatives that enhanced students academic experiences

Education

Bachelor of Product Design - Chemical And Healthcare Formulation

University of Canterbury
Christchurch, NZ
07.2023

Skills

  • Technical understanding of formulating functional products with aesthetic appeal
  • Understanding of the links between product formulation, packaging, marketing and consumer perception
  • Ability to control the physical properties of formulated products
  • Practical experience in product formulation prototyping
  • Understanding of the design lifecycle – from idea generation to commercialisation
  • Critical thinking and application of logic to proposed design solutions
  • Decision Making
  • Business Development
  • Preparing Written Reports

  • Project Management

Timeline

Intern

Tura Te Ngakau
11.2023 - Current

Laboratory Technician

Hills Laboratories
06.2023 - 11.2023

Lab Assistant

Lincoln Agritech
01.2023 - 03.2023

Lab Assistant Intern

Lincoln Agritech
11.2021 - 02.2022

Social Organizer

University Of Canterbury
01.2020 - 12.2020

Tutor

Massey University
01.2020 - 11.2020

Kaitautoko

University Of Canterbury
01.2020 - 11.2020

Bachelor of Product Design - Chemical And Healthcare Formulation

University of Canterbury
Serene Ratu