Sadaf Almas, effective audit facilitation and continuous improvement initiatives

We aim to shine a spotlight on the exceptional achievements of women at INL spanning different fields and career stages. Join us as we honour their accomplishments, share their stories, and ignite inspiration for the upcoming generation of female scientists.

Meet Sadaf Almas. She works as a Quality systems Assistant in the Quality and Coordination unit at INL and she coordinates and inspects the core departments at INL to ensure the quality management systems consistency in terms of quality, validity, and reliability with study bases, facility-based and process-based approaches.

Can you give us an update on what you’re currently working on?

In my role within the Quality department, I play a crucial role in ensuring adherence to Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) standards, particularly in the context of Nanosafety laboratories. My primary responsibility revolves around facilitating GLP audits, employing principles established by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

First and foremost, I work closely with Nanosafety to develop comprehensive audit schedules aligned with OECD guidelines. This involves collaborating with INLers to ensure that all pertinent aspects of GLP are covered, from facility infrastructure to standard operating procedures (SOPs) and data management protocols.

Before conducting audits, I review existing documentation and procedures within Nanosafety to identify potential gaps or areas requiring improvement. Through effective audit facilitation and continuous improvement initiatives, I contribute to the advancement of quality and excellence in Nanosafety research practices.

Could you briefly describe what a typical day looks like for you, Sadaf, and what sparked your interest and motivated you to pursue a career in quality research?

Since I’ve always worked in the industry world and have ties to academia, I find that these connections and learning opportunities can be extremely motivating, particularly when it comes to dealing with European compliances for accreditation or certification requirements.

In addition to offering direction for the Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) standards in this instance, I’m also studying the scientific procedures used at the INL Lab Facilities, especially in the context of Nanosafety. Maintaining an association with my field while exploring new avenues for study and technological innovation is an incredible feeling for me.

How can you inspire future students to follow the STEAM path? 
The most crucial element, in my opinion, is to constantly improve knowledge and quench one’s need for it. I have spent my entire life working in a variety of organisations, and despite having an extensively versatile education in fields like chemistry, microbiology, molecular biology, compliance, and quality management systems, among others, it still seems that I want to keep advancing forward.

An integrative route called STEAM creates diverse personalities and mindsets.

Text and Photography by Gina Palha, Corporate Communication and Marketing Officer