Orla Casey
Experimental Scientist
Bronte
Summary
Dynamic and innovative scientist with a BSc (Honours) in Genetics and Cell Biology, specializing in microbial metabolite discovery. Proven expertise in experimental design and microbial cultivation, complemented by strong capabilities in managing comprehensive compound isolation workflows in fast-paced laboratory settings. Proficient in Microsoft Excel for data organization, analysis, and presentation, with advanced bioinformatics skills in Linux/Unix command line, Galaxy, R, Python, and Perl for genomic analysis and data interpretation. Committed to continuous skill development and eager to embrace diverse professional opportunities, supported by a versatile employment history across casual, part-time, and full-time roles in Ireland and Australia.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Experimental Scientist
Microbial Screening Technologies
02.2023 - Current
- Performed technical experiments for the production of natural products using microbial fermentation which requires immaculate sterile and aseptic techniques, large scale production and extraction of secondary metabolites using chemical extraction processes, and compound purification using chromatography techniques.
- Investigated and discovered novel and rare secondary metabolites through cultivation of targeted microbes utilising inoculation techniques across diverse media and grain substrates.
- Skilled in many techniques required for isolating secondary metabolites, including preparative High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and other chromatography techniques, freeze-drying and accurate weighing of highly valuable natural product compounds, media substrates preparation using petri plate pourer and standalone autoclaves, large scale liquid fermentation using Eppendorf BioFlo 120 system with 10 L vessels.
- Trained in and facilitated routine maintenance and upkeep of a wide range of laboratory equipment and instruments including (and not limited to): HPLC and LCMS instruments (Agilent and Shimadzu), autoclave systems, pure water systems,
CO2 incubators, rotary evaporators, biological safety cabinets class II and laminar flow hoods. - Cell culturing and bioassays of novel and rare secondary metabolites and pure compounds against a wide gamut of organisms ranging from mammalian cells (NS-1 murine myeloma, neonatal foreskin fibroblasts), plants (Eragrostis tef, thyme, lucerne), yeasts (Candida albicans and Saccharomyces cerevisiae), and bacteria (Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus). Developed technical skills for compound microplate assays using semi-automated liquid handling systems (Integra
Assist Plus, Integra Viaflo 96) to facilitate high throughput screening of fungal metabolites in 96-well plates for bioassay preparation; bioassay analysis using Thermo Scientific Multiskan Skyhigh spectrophotometer. - Contributed to novel scientific discoveries through conducting and implementing a series of in planta experiments to analyse impact of fungal growth on plants, assessed metabolite profiles through HPLC analysis to facilitate compound screening and
identification, microscopic examination of microbial cultures for morphological analysis and quality control. - Maintained good laboratory standards through correct biological waste handling using autoclave systems, process controls and databases.
- Ensured accurate laboratory inventory management through detailed systems for storage of microbial preservations at ultra-low temperatures, analytical samples and detailed record-keeping of experimental data. Maintained precise lab inventories and assembled comprehensive experimental reports to facilitate seamless transfer across teams.
Night Stocker
Dunnes Stores
12.2024 - 12.2024
- Temporary role during Christmas period, supporting stock replenishment and rotation.
- Arranged products to planograms, maintained displays, and ensured quality control.
- Assisted customers with inquiries and maintained tidy, safe store aisles.
Front of House Server
Reuben Hills
07.2025 - Current
- Delivered high-quality customer service in a busy café environment, managing orders and assisting customers efficiently.
- Maintained cleanliness and organisation of the café, following health and safety standards.
- Collaborated with team members to ensure smooth surface during high-volume periods.
- Following booking systems and ensuring smooth transitions between tables, communicating to a high level with others in my section.
- Managed daily cash handling procedures, ensuring precise accounting records were maintained.
Front of House Server
The Autumn Rooms
03.2022 - 09.2022
- Provided excellent customer service in a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere.
- Built rapport by remembering customer names and preferences for a personal touch.
- Skilled in specialty coffee (V60, batch brew) and cocktail preparation.
Front of House Server
Supermacs Portlaoise Plaza
04.2021 - 10.2021
- Prepared food in a fast-paced environment while delivering high standards of customer service.
- Worked collaboratively with team and management to achieve daily goals.
- Managed store opening/closing, stock checks, food safety, and cleanliness.
Education
BSc (Honours) - Genetics and Cell Biology
Dublin City University
04.2001 -
Leaving Certificate -
Loreto Secondary School Kilkenny
04.2001 -
Skills
Microsoft Office
Experimental design
Data Analysis
Attention to detail
Bioinformatics
Instrumentation (HPLC, LCMS, Spectrometer)
Time Management
Efficient
Accomplishments
- Elected Games Captain in final year of secondary school, leading the organisation of school events and coordinating between students and staff.
- Represented Ireland at U17 and U19 soccer level, demonstrating strong commitment, teamwork, and time management skills.
Timeline
Front of House Server
Reuben Hills
07.2025 - Current
Night Stocker
Dunnes Stores
12.2024 - 12.2024
Experimental Scientist
Microbial Screening Technologies
02.2023 - Current
Front of House Server
The Autumn Rooms
03.2022 - 09.2022
Front of House Server
Supermacs Portlaoise Plaza
04.2021 - 10.2021
BSc (Honours) - Genetics and Cell Biology
Dublin City University
04.2001 -
Leaving Certificate -
Loreto Secondary School Kilkenny
04.2001 -