Melaia Saumaiwai

Laboratory Technician / Tutor

Location
Fiji
Desired Salary
25 - USD/hourly
Work preference
Full Time
Status
Actively looking
Field / Industry
Product & Operations
Relocation: No
Notice Period: Immediate

This user has not passed any tests yet

English - French -

About Me

I am trained in Clinical Biochemistry with a degree from Griffith University and have multidisciplinary training in Public Health, Law, and French. I have extensive experience in laboratory research and private tutoring in Biology and Chemistry. I am deeply committed to improving science education across the Pacific region. I am fluent in English and Fijian, conversational in French, and highly skilled at adapting to diverse environments.

I am known for my meticulous attention to detail, strong analytical skills, and a proactive approach to achieving results. Over the years, I have provided specialized tutoring to senior secondary school students preparing for national examinations, designing personalized lesson plans aligned with the curriculum and career pathways.

My professional experience spans roles such as pathology lab technician, research officer, and disaster recovery specialist, where I contributed to evidence-based policy development and post-disaster needs assessments. I have worked on national nutrition studies and managed clinical laboratory operations with strict adherence to quality and safety protocols.

In my tutoring, I strive to make complex scientific concepts accessible by using culturally relevant examples and clear explanations. Beyond my scientific and educational work, I am actively involved in community leadership, running a small organic farm, while engaging youth in environmental conservation activities.

I am passionate about fostering learning and scientific understanding, and I continuously seek opportunities to contribute to health and education improvements in the Pacific.

Skills

Communication SkillsProject ManagementProblem SolvingAnalytical SkillsTime ManagementData AnalysisLeadershipCritical ThinkingData EntryTeamworkCurriculum DevelopmentCreative Writing

Education

Griffith University, QLD, Australia
1997 - 2000

Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences

GPA 4.21

Griffith University, QLD, Australia
2000 - 2001

Graduate Diploma of Clinical Biochemistry

GPA 4.08

Griffith University, QLD, Australia
2001

Master of Science in Clinical Biochemistry (studies towards)

GPA 4.00

University of the South Pacific
1995 - 1996

Foundation Sciences Certificate

Unclassified Studies

University of the South Pacific
2011

Law units

2 Law units completed

Fiji National University
2007

Graduate Certificate in Public Health

GPA 3.33

Suva Grammar School, Suva, Fiji
1994

Fiji School Leaving Certificate

Experience

Biology and Chemistry Tutor @ Cafe 6 Tutors and Coaches
2021 - 2025

Provided specialized tutoring in Biology and Chemistry for senior Secondary School students preparing for Fiji School Leaving Certificate (FSLC) and Fiji Seventh Form Examination (FSFE). Designed personalized lesson plans aligned with national curriculum and TVET careers.

Research and Disaster Recovery Specialist & Post-Disaster Needs Assessment @ Kuruleca Consultants
2007 - 2012

Regional Health Data Analysis (2007) and Post Disaster Needs assessment (2012). Supported evidence-based policy development for HIV/AIDS prevention across the Pacific. Contributed to Fiji’s official Post Disaster Needs Assessment report, guiding resource allocation and rehabilitation efforts after cyclone Evan.

Pathology Lab Technician (Project Based) @ Tropical Laboratories Fiji
2011

Supported a National Food and Nutrition study on Iron-fortified flour for women of child-bearing age. Educated participants on study objectives and procedures, increasing participation through culturally sensitive communication. Managed specimen collection, labeling and transport across multiple regions. Ensured compliance with research protocols, contributing to evidence-based nutrition policy development.

Pathology Lab Technician @ Suva Private Hospital
2004 - 2010

Managed end-to-end Human Biological Samples, including receiving, labeling and processing with strict adherence to quality and safety protocols. Performed phlebotomy and ensured accurate data entry for patient records. Delivered test results promptly to outpatients and referring medical practitioners, coordinated stock management, and facilitated international specimen transfers for specialized testing such as HLA typing.

Research Officer (Chemistry Department) @ Koronivia Research Station
2002 - 2003

Conducted comprehensive soil and water testing across multiple national sites, including sampling, receiving and processing soil specimens. Performed detailed water analysis and pesticide residue studies to ensure environmental safety and compliance with regulatory standards.

Farm Director @ Jacobs Rose Farm
August 2017 - Current

Managing the daily running of a small organic farm. Conducting soil, plant, and animal inspections, ensuring the well-being of all crops and livestock. Ensuring water- ways are clear of debris. Scheduling crop rotation and researching what works for this specific environment.

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