MICROBIOLOGY SPOTLIGHT: Powered Air Purifying Respirators (PAPRs)

Name: Kourtney Mendieta Bergeron

Alcami Site: Charleston, SC

How long have you been with Alcami?

I have been with the company for two years. 

What is your role?

I am an Assistant Scientist I in the Microbiology laboratory. My team and I support sterile manufacturing operations and ensure the sterility of our products. I also perform bioburden method suitability for new formulations to ensure our testing methods and materials are appropriate for the specific formulation. 

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

I find my career very rewarding because the work I perform every day impacts someone's quality of life. I absolutely love being part of the Alcami team. The work we do is truly amazing, and I am so grateful I am able to be a part of it.  

What are your team’s latest achievements?

Recently, the Charleston facility has implemented the use of Powered Air Purifying Respirators (PAPRs) for certain drug products that are more hazardous to work with. All teams within the Charleston facility were involved in the implementation of the PAPRs. The Microbiology team created a new sterile gowning procedure for the use of these PAPRs, and performed gowning training for the site and media fills to validate the process. 

How do you see those accomplishments affecting the pharmaceutical and biotech industries?

The implementation of the PAPRs has allowed the facility to safely manufacture more products other facilities do not have the capabilities to do.