Sonia Barajas
Bramptom,Ontario
Summary
Dynamic Senior Chemist with extensive experience at Mera Cannabis-Vivariant Laboratories, excelling in method validation and quality control testing. Proven ability to mentor staff and enhance laboratory efficiency through innovative analytical techniques. Skilled in HPLC, LC-MS, ICP-MS and regulatory compliance, ensuring accurate results while fostering a collaborative team environment.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Senior Chemist
Mera Cannabis-Vivariant Laboratories
Mississauga, ON
08.2020 - 08.2025
- Assisted in conducting experiments under supervision to understand chemical properties and reactions.
- Maintained laboratory equipment and ensured compliance with safety protocols during experiments.
- Collaborated with team members to prepare chemical solutions for various analyses and tests.
- Documented experimental procedures and results accurately to support research initiatives.
- Supported routine quality control processes by performing standard tests on chemical samples.
- Developed new testing methodologies to ensure consistency and accuracy in analytical results.
- Mentored junior chemists, fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment.
- Led safety training initiatives, educating staff on best practices for handling hazardous chemicals.
- Prepared and reviewed documentation and SOPs.
- Performed testing of raw materials and environmental samples, including cannabis products, ensuring compliance with GMP, ISO 17025, and regulatory standards.
- Performed QC testing of cannabis samples for potency, pesticides, heavy metals, and mycotoxins using HPLC, LC-MS, and ICP-MS.
- Interpreted and documented all test results, calculations and observations and completed report summaries, as per established SOP
- Ensured accurate results that conform to current specifications, according to Current Good Manufacturing Practices, in-house, compendia and regulatory requirements, and verified all calculations for mathematical and analytical accuracy.
- Designed and executed method validation protocols in compliance with USP and EP.
- Conducted method development and optimization for new analytical procedures.
- Drafted SOPs, validation reports, and QC documentation to support regulatory compliance.
- Supported OOS/OOT investigations, ensuring accurate documentation.
- Carried out instrument calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting to minimize downtime.
- Oversaw laboratory inventory and procurement of reagents, consumables, and standards.
- Trained and mentored staff on method validation, SOPs, and QC testing procedures.
- Participated as a certified member of the Joint Health & Safety Committee, improving lab safety standards.
Chemistry Analyst (Co-op)
SGS Canada Inc.
Mississauga, ON
12.2018 - 02.2019
- Prepared test and standard solutions for QC analyses.
- Analyzed raw material and pharmaceutical samples using USP, EP, and JP standards.
- Contributed to method transfer and validation support activities.
- Trained new staff and prepared laboratory reports with a focus on accuracy and compliance.
- Conducted routine laboratory tests to assess material reliability and compliance with safety standards.
- Maintained detailed documentation of all experiments, analyses, and results to facilitate information sharing among colleagues and stakeholders.
Chemistry Analyst QC-QA
Colombian Petroleum Institute
Colombia
10.2005 - 02.2015
- Conducted qualitative and quantitative analysis of chemical compounds to ensure compliance with industry standards.
- Developed and implemented laboratory protocols to enhance accuracy and efficiency in testing procedures.
- Mentored junior analysts on best practices for experimental design and data interpretation techniques.
- Evaluated new methodologies and technologies to improve analytical capabilities within the laboratory setting.
- Reduced turnaround times for test results through effective time management strategies that supported faster decision-making processes.
- Increased laboratory safety by implementing strict protocols for handling hazardous materials and adhering to regulatory guidelines.
- Identified opportunities for cost savings by evaluating current procedures and recommending improvements where applicable.
- Troubleshot instrumentation issues effectively, minimizing downtime while maximizing productivity levels within the lab setting.
- Actively participated in professional development opportunities, staying current on industry advancements and best practices.
- Improved laboratory efficiency by streamlining sample analysis processes and implementing new techniques.
- Conducted method validation and routine QC analyses using ICP-MS, AAS, AA, CVAA, and wet chemistry.
- Developed and improved analytical test methods to enhance reliability and efficiency.
- Performed instrument calibration, troubleshooting, and preventive maintenance.
- Reported analytical results in compliance with ASTM, EPA, and ISO 17025 standards.
- Participated in CAPA investigations, implementing corrective actions.
- Trained and mentored staff on analytical techniques, SOPs, and safety practices.
Education
Master of Science - Environmental Management
Universidad De Alcala De Henares
Spain02-2015
Bachelor of Science - Chemistry
Univarsidad Tecnologica De Pereira
Pereira, Colombia09-2004
Skills
- Laboratory management
- Analytical Techniques: HPLC, LC-MS, ICP-MS, GC, AA, CVAA
- Quality Control Testing of raw materials, intermediates, and dosage forms
- Regulatory Compliance: cGMP, GLP, ISO 17025
- SOPs, QC Documentation & Audit Readiness
- Instrumentation: Calibration, troubleshooting, preventive maintenance
- OOS/OOT Investigations & Data Integrity
- Training & Mentoring of laboratory staff
- Inventory & Procurement Management
- Method Validation & Development (USP, EP standards)
Languages
Spanish
Native or Bilingual
English
Full Professional
Certification
- ISO 17025 Internal Auditor
- ISO 9001 Internal Auditor
- Joint Health & Safety Committee (JHSC)
- Lean Six Sigma Black Belt
- Occupational Health & Industrial Safety
Timeline
Senior Chemist
Mera Cannabis-Vivariant Laboratories
08.2020 - 08.2025
Chemistry Analyst (Co-op)
SGS Canada Inc.
12.2018 - 02.2019
Chemistry Analyst QC-QA
Colombian Petroleum Institute
10.2005 - 02.2015
Master of Science - Environmental Management
Universidad De Alcala De Henares
Bachelor of Science - Chemistry
Univarsidad Tecnologica De Pereira