People are our Chemistry

At Eurofins Bio-Pharma Product Testing, we believe that our people provide our strength. Their dedication to quality, professional competence and hard work are the key elements in the company’s success. In this regular feature, we introduce you to some of the people who have helped make Eurofins an industry leader.

“Doing neuroscience research & development for many years for diseases like Parkinson’s and schizophrenia could be described as working in the ‘wild wild west’ back in the 80s,” says Pamala Adams, Eurofins Advantar Laboratories’ Senior ELISA Scientist. “Using cell lines to produce cells for assays to advance patient treatments was not only ground-breaking research back then but also prepared me to set up the new cell lab at Eurofins’ San Diego site last June. I love the challenge of starting with nothing and creating something that can have such a significant impact on people’s health and lives.”

Working with clients to develop medicines for patients while meeting government regulations requires a lot of collaboration and communication between those external drivers and our internal teams of QA, IT, Scientists, Project Managers, Pamala adds. “I often take on the role of translator among all parties - scientific and non-scientific - so everyone understands the science and necessary steps to reach project goals.”

Recognizing the exceptional amount of teamwork among her San Diego colleagues, Pam says, “The people here are so eager to collaborate with strong teamwork qualities and are so appreciative and thankful; I’ve never heard so many ‘thanks you’s’ in my career.”

What does your current job entail?

I was asked to set up a cell culture lab for future potency assays using cell lines.

Phase 1: This includes ordering equipment and cell culture supplies, learning and comparing pros and cons of available equipment, sharing equipment information with team, and then having the equipment installed, qualified and part 11 assessment performed. Essentially, I was instructed to inform, guide, and keep the timelines relevant with the team representatives from Metrology, Materials Management, QA and Project Management. This also has included writing SOPs and EQP documents for the Cell Lab, as well as being the point person for any issues and any cell culture lab questions or understanding of cell culture.

Phase 2: This phase is interacting with outside companies that would like cell potency lab work done at Eurofins Advantar. We are currently interacting with multiple companies and will look to start cell potency assays in the spring of 2022.

Why should clients trust us with their projects?

As a new lab with new services being offered at the Eurofins San Diego site, clients may be reassured that success is our goal and their requests will be met with respect and industrious efforts towards our shared goals. I have over 30 years of experience working in R&D labs around the country and I understand the expectations and concerns involved in using a contract lab to further the original work efforts. Eurofins Advantar has established a history of excellence and will conduct the Cell Lab potency assays under the established stringent guidelines.

How does your group’s work impact/benefit society?

Understanding the potency assays and quantifying their value will help to contribute towards the development of better medicines, and these future medicines will enhance the quality of life for individuals.

What kind of volunteer activities have you been involved with?

I have mentored junior and high school students in math and science. I have volunteered at UCSD in the English in Action (EIA) program, mentoring visiting professors and scientists from various countries around the world, by helping them to understand and adapt to American culture, in addition to understanding their job related questions and issues.