Kishor Bari

Management of microbiology bench work, laboratory, team and troubleshooting.

• Development of microbiology lab and in-house testing facility: Development of Preservative Efficacy Test (Challenge Test) protocols as per ISO 11930 standards.
• Microbial limit test as per L’Oreal’s standards based on ISO standards.
• Automation in the microbiology lab: Commissioning of Previcolor (Automated Gram staining system), Eddy jet spiral plater and Sphere flash.

Proficiency in handling LIMS, Extrapolation (waiving off challenge test) based on earlier test data.

• Support to formulators on robust preservative system.
• Collaboration with external lab for microbial testing of samples and worldwide microbiologists (counterparts).
• Maintained hygiene standards and managed vendors, AMC of equipment, media, and consumables in microbiology laboratory.
• Advocated for QA/QC by addressing microbiology-related plant issues.
• Improved process water quality through gap analysis and resolution strategies.
• Managing team by offering support and constructive feedback to improve skills and maximize potential.
• Coaching and mentoring team members, regularly assessing knowledge and skills gaps and implementing corrective actions.
• Maintaining positive, professional working environment by optimizing work.
• Managed various projects
• Outlined primary responsibilities

Isolated bacterial strains from underarms and evaluated antimicrobial efficacy of Galaxy chemicals through MIC/MBC testing and agar well diffusion methods, alongside time kill studies per ASTM 2315 standards against odour-causing bacteria.

• Antimicrobial activity by MIC/MBC and agar well diffusion methods in accordance with CLSI guidelines.
• Time kill study of novel antimicrobials in accordance with ASTM standards.
• Developed assays for persistent activity of indigenously formulated hand sanitiser, employing Glove Juice method (ASTM E 1115) and Cup scrub method (ASTM E 1874) for efficacy determination.
• Challenge tests (PET) of personal care formulations as per (CTFA) PCPC guidelines.

Preservation of wet wipes using Galaxy preservatives: Developed protocols for preparation, loading of preservatives on the wet wipes and challenge test (PET) protocol for the wet wipes considering PCPC M-5 and USP criteria.

• Developed and validated lipstick formulations using Galaxy chemicals, including a challenge test protocol in compliance with PCPC M-6 guidelines.
• Supporting innovation team for building new claims and robust product formulations.
• Managed multiple projects within the team
• Facilitated team development and skill enhancement and succession building.
• Conducted thorough literature review of patented materials and development of protocols.
• Procurement, revival and maintenance of BSL-2 ATCC cultures.
• Biosurfactant production using lab scale bioreactor.
• Sampling and analysis of microbes from skin region.
• Know-how for analysis of samples from third party labs.
• Handling and managing microbiology lab and required inventories.
• Outlined primary responsibilities in role

Implementation of rapid microbial detection method (Biolumix): Commissioning, customization and designing of experiments for validation.

• Microbial analysis of water as per ISO guidelines.
• Improvement in process water quality: Troubleshooting and Systematic improvements (Kaizens as per TPM) in the system. Implementation and monitoring of the HACCP for WTP (Water Treatment Plant).
• Sampling of process water, finished goods, packing materials and their analysis according to customer specifications.

Development of C& S system for PPFRP Vessels, IBC and drums: Implemented suitable spray nozzle system and its customization/optimization which drastically reduced TAT of C & S and contamination issues.

• Monitoring of the cleaning & sanitization of the tankers, storage tanks & vessels.
• Monitoring of air quality in the packing rooms & micro lab.
• Conducted growth promotion tests on media to ensure quality standards
• Providing training and guidance to the operators and subordinates at operating levels.
• Approval of changes related to product and water lines through MOC.
• Preparation of CAPA for internal and external rejections.
• Support to new project team for plant design with respect to microbiology.
• Coordinated projects across departments, ensuring alignment with quality standards and microbiology protocols.
• Defined team roles and responsibilities, enhancing collaboration and accountability within the team.
• Handling of vendors and procurement for the lab requirements.