Chemistry, instrumentation, automation

Analytical Scientist & Data Admin

I bridge hands-on analytical chemistry with practical data automation, helping teams troubleshoot instrumentation, improve workflows, and turn lab data into decisions.

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years across analytical chemistry, instrumentation, and data workflows

10+

instrumentation and assay areas across R&D, support, and QC settings

based in Emeryville, supporting customers and cross-functional teams

Analytical instrumentation

LC-MS workflows

UV spectroscopy

Profile

A data-driven approach to instrumentation

My background spans technical support, R&D analytical chemistry, clean room QC, academic research, and data administration. I like roles where instrumentation, users, and data all meet in the same room.

trentkoga@gmail.com 661-513-6530 Emeryville, CA

Technical support Instrument installation Troubleshooting Data automation Method development Customer communication

Experience

Work history

Aug 2023 - Present

Shimadzu

Technical Support Scientist

Deliver technical support for the region, including demonstrations and sales call support.
Install analytical instruments at customer sites with a focus on setup, functionality, and satisfaction.
Troubleshoot customer issues by applying technical proficiency across analytical instrumentation.
Maintain product knowledge, specifications, and troubleshooting procedures for effective customer support.

Jul 2023 - Jan 2025

MoonGoat Coffee

Data Admin

Built a tailored HTML, CSS, and JavaScript platform for floor managers across multiple locations.
Integrated SARIMA-based sales trend forecasts into a customized web platform for decision-making.
Developed VBA macros to automate repeated tasks and improve workflow efficiency.
Ran data quality checks and validation procedures to improve data integrity.

Aug 2022 - Aug 2023

Air Protein

Analytical Chemist for R&D

Performed nucleic acid phenol extraction and purification on diverse sample types.
Conducted moisture and ash analysis using oven drying, gravimetric, and furnace techniques.
Analyzed complex data sets with VBA and Python to identify patterns and operational opportunities.
Built and deployed a custom web application using Google Apps Script and front-end frameworks.

Jun 2021 - Aug 2022

Merck EMD Electronics

Analytical Chemist

Prepared inorganic solutions with multiple matrices in a clean room environment.
Integrated VBA automation into standard workflows to improve productivity.
Operated ICP-MS and troubleshot mechanical and technical issues for accurate analysis.
Executed raw material analysis and collected NWA data for product quality recommendations.

Feb 2021 - May 2021

Western University of Health Science

COVID-19 Clinic

Conducted medical screening per CDC guidelines.
Reconstituted and administered Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines.
Educated patients on current COVID-19 information and helped reduce pandemic-related stress.

Jul 2018 - Mar 2020

CSULB, Dr. Marco Lopez Lab

Academic Research Assistant

Implemented catalyst synthesis tests from literature using microwave technology.
Characterized organic products using NMR, GC-MS, TLC, UV-VIS, and IR.
Optimized reaction time, gathered inventory through UC Chemicals, and maintained detailed notebooks.

Skills