Heather Ligda
Wanatah
Summary
Resourceful Chemistry Lab Technician recognized for productivity and efficient task completion. Skilled in spectroscopy, chromatography, and titration techniques essential for accurate laboratory analysis. Excel in time management, critical thinking, and problem-solving to deliver reliable results in fast-paced environments. Committed to maintaining safety protocols and laboratory standards to support research objectives effectively.
Driven Biological Researcher with a background in molecular biology, genetics, and biochemistry. Experience includes conducting laboratory experiments, analyzing data, and publishing research findings. Strengths include critical thinking, problem-solving skills, collaboration on interdisciplinary teams and commitment to scientific integrity. Previous work has led to breakthroughs in understanding of various biological processes and contributed to the advancement of science.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
General Manager
Graceland Cemetery And Mausoleum
Valparaiso
12.2011 - 08.2013
- Developed and implemented operational strategies to improve efficiency, reduce costs and maximize customer satisfaction.
- Established and maintained effective communication with staff members to ensure efficient operations.
- Managed all aspects of daily business operations including budgeting, staffing, scheduling, inventory control, customer service and sales.
Certified Surgical Technologist
Porter Memorial Hospital
Valparaiso
05.2006 - 07.2011
- Prepared operating room for surgical procedures, including setting up sterile field.
- Assisted surgeons during operative procedures by anticipating their needs and passing instruments.
- Maintained aseptic technique throughout the procedure.
- Ensured that all equipment was functioning properly prior to use in the operating room.
- Identified potential problems before they occurred by closely observing the sterile field and personnel involved in the procedure.
- Performed instrument counts before, during, and after surgeries as required by hospital policy.
Certified Nursing Assistant
Saint Anthonys Hospital
Michigan City
08.1996 - 07.2004
- Assisted patients with activities of daily living such as bathing, grooming, and dressing.
- Provided basic patient care by taking vital signs, measuring height and weight, and recording intake and output.
- Reported changes in patient condition to registered nurse or physician.
- Answered call lights promptly and responded to patient needs accordingly.
- Turned and repositioned bedridden patients on a regular schedule to prevent bedsores.
- Observed patients for any changes in their physical or mental condition.
- Served meals to patients in their rooms and assisted with feeding when needed.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Biology
Purdue University Northwest
Westville, IN05-2025
Associate of Science - Surgical Technology
Brown Mackie College
Michigan City, IN08-2009
High School
Lacrosse High School
La Crosse, IN05-1999
Nursing Technology - Nursing Assistance
Michigan City High School
Michigan City, IN05-1999
Skills
- Customer Retention
- Business Administration
- Service Quality Improvement
- Sales
- Schedule Management
- Workflow Planning
- Interpersonal and written communication
- Specimen Preparation
- Specimen Processing
- Lab equipment processes
- Laboratory instrumentation
- Laboratory safety protocols
- Chemical Handling
- Analytical chemistry
- Hazardous Materials Handling
- Electrophoresis
- Specimen Collection
- Western blotting
- Cell Culture
- Molecular Biology
- Lab equipment maintenance
- Disposal of lab waste
Affiliations
- Developed exceptional time management and organizational skills while balancing daily parenting responsibilities with academic and professional commitments.
- Cultivated effective communication and problem-solving skills through managing diverse needs and schedules.
- Fostered a nurturing environment, promoting growth and development through educational activities and hands-on learning.
- Pursued a rigorous academic curriculum, maintaining a 3.3 GPA.
- Engaged in collaborative projects, enhancing teamwork and leadership abilities.
- Developed critical thinking and analytical skills through coursework and laboratory assignments.
Accomplishments
- Academic honors Fall 2022
- Chancellors Endowed Scholarship (2024-2025)
- Frank O'Bannon Scholarship 2024-2025
- PNW Student Conference Grant Fall 2025
- Chemistry Research Recipient
- Biological Research Recipient
- Molecular Microbial Pathology Conference Participant 2025
Certification
- CITI Certification 2024
- Chemical Handling Certification 2025
Languages
3
Education and Training
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References
References available upon request.
Timeline
General Manager
Graceland Cemetery And Mausoleum
12.2011 - 08.2013
Certified Surgical Technologist
Porter Memorial Hospital
05.2006 - 07.2011
Certified Nursing Assistant
Saint Anthonys Hospital
08.1996 - 07.2004
Bachelor of Science - Biology
Purdue University Northwest
Associate of Science - Surgical Technology
Brown Mackie College
High School
Lacrosse High School
Nursing Technology - Nursing Assistance
Michigan City High School
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