[Get Solution] Short Essays

A Evidence of applying your knowledge and understanding to practical situations:i) Applying appropriatetheoretical and practical methods to identify or define a problem, opportunity or projectMy assignment was at the National Test House(NTH) while I was working as a project manager in the Food and Consumer Ministry, Government of India. Many Complaint were made to the Government from various food testing agencies that many brands’ amount of preservative is above the recommended limit. My job was to test sauce and ketchup samples from multiple outlets and determine the amount of their class II preservatives. Thus, my job was very challenging, as many companies’ licenses and reputation were dependent on my report.I set up a team and collected samples from companies and various department stores. Then I used the titrimetric method to test for benzoic acid content in the sauce.In this method from a known quantity of the sample, benzoic acid is separated by saturating the sample with sodium chloride, then acidifying them with dilute hydrochloric acid. Then the sauce samples were extracted with chloroform. The chloroform layer is made free from mineral acid by evaporating the solvent. Neutral alcohol is used to dissolve the residue, and the amount of benzoic acid is determined by titration against standard alkali. I calculated the benzoic acid contents as follows:By the above method, I tested for benzoic acid in eighteen brands of sauce and ketchup, and found that only seven of them had the recommended amount of benzoic acid; the rest contained benzoic acid above the recommended limit.ii) Combining ideas and contributions from different people and disciplines to arrive at appropriate engineering, technical or scientific solutions: I was the part of the government of India “First in and First out “project. This project was a pilot project launched to save grains stored in the warehouse. In the preceding year, 2017, around forty percent of the crop was wasted to insects, pests, and weather as it was left in the open to rot.A team of seven engineers was formed, which included civil electrical and mechanical.Our job was to inspect the warehouse, prepare a report. Of the condition and make action plans. The civil engineers examined the warehouse and wrote a report on the warehouse’s state and estimated the cost of repair. The mechanical engineer estimated the cost of fitting new pipes, and electrical engineer estimated the cost of setting lights and bulbs. My role was to prepare a report on pest and pest control measures that will be employed.I did the following:1)Measure the room temperature and took note of the storage condition. The storage life of grains depends mainly on the two physical parameters – temperature and moisture content.Therefore the factors indicating biodeterioration in stored grain bulk are carbon dioxide, odour, temperature, moisture, relative humidity, and sound.2)I, along with the electrical engineer, made an estimation of types and number of sensors to be used in the on-going pilot project.Three of sensors were finalised.1)Odor Sensor A specific biochemical marker with adequate reproducibility would help prevent significant grain storage losses in the detection of early spoilage due to the molding of grain by fungi.2)CO2 sensors near the vents and exhaust air stream of fans in the grain bin for measuring CO2. They concluded that hot spots and early spoilage of grain could be detected inside the grain bin using CO2 sensors.3)moisture sensors available which work on measuring the dielectric properties of the grain. The higher the dielectric constant of grain, the higher is the moisture content. After working committee approval, all recommendations were submitted, and we finalised a meeting with the accounts officers. Finally, the project is successful, and the government is planning to implement it on a national level.iii) Displaying creativity and innovation: developing your own ideas to produce new engineering, technical or scientific solutions, new designs and new technological approaches:I worked on changes in the human gene due to adaptation as a part of my internship project. In particular, the changes in genes for highland-dwellers compared to lowland dwellers and the effect of these changes on overall health, especially on diabetes and blood pressure.As this was a new project for the lab, the knowledge about literature and conducting experiments was limited.I had to collect a lot of data and put it in various sections. Each section had its category defined, like diabetes, blood pressure, etc.Then I analyzed the data and looked at the relationships between genes and the adaptation to environmental behaviors.I extracted DNA and genotype samples utilizing single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) technologies.To know the root causes of genetic diseases, I suggested using genetic analyzers to properly sequence DNA samples. The genetic analyzer was not very common in my lab.The use of a genetic analyzer helped in viewing and comparing genomic content and helped interpret findings in data reporting. I found that there is a difference in gene adaptation of high land dwellers and low land dwellers. High land dwellers(people in hilly regions) are more adapted to cold temperatures, affecting their blood pressure flow.I also asked the management to introduce cooperative management strategies to ensure adequate testing procedures followed. I realized that the standard collection unit for all labs caused blood samples to be sometimes mixed, and this gave erroneous results, compelling researchers to re-do the whole experiment. It was a burden for the researcher in terms of time and hard work and was expensive for the lab.I also used a computer to store, process, and analyze data using bioinformatics tools, a quick and effective way to analyze results.The whole process reduced the time taken per experiment and gave more reliable results. It also helped in cost reduction.iv) Undertaking scientific or technical evaluation and optimisation (of product, process, equipment, method, project etc) against the requirements you identified, or the brief you were given:As a part of my internship project, I was given a topic of gene changes and in particular the changes in genes for highland-dwellers compared to lowland dwellers and the effect of these changes on overall health, especially on diabetes and blood pressure.As this was a new project for the lab not much was known about this topic.I had to collect a lot of data and put in various sections. Each section had its category defined, like diabetes, blood pressure, etc.Then I analysed the data and looked at the relationships between genes and the adaptation to environmental behaviours.I extracted DNA and genotype samples utilising sing genetic analysers to properly sequence DNA samples. Genetic analyser was not very common in my lab.Tngle nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) technologies.To know the root causes of genetic diseases I suggested usihis helped in viewing and comparing genomic content and helped in interpretive findings in data reporting.We found that there is indeed a difference in gene adaptation of high land dwellers and low land dwellers. High land dwellers(people in hilly regions) are more adapted to cold temperature and it affects their blood pressure flow.I also asked the management to introduce cooperative management strategies to ensure adequate testing procedures are followed. I realized that the common collection unit for all labs caused blood samples to be sometimes mixed and this gave erroneous results, compelling researchers to re-do the whole experiment. It was a burden for the researcher in terms of time and hard work and was expensive for the lab.I also used a computer to store, process, and analyse data using bioinformatics tools, which was a quick and effective way to analyse results.v) Planning and executing projects: organising or performing technical work to implement or validate solutions, designs etc:Genetically modified (GM) mustard seeds for commercial purposes in India, but India’s Government wanted to analyze the risk factors associated with this. They were interested in calculating the risk to the environment, farmland, farmers, and economics. My role was to evaluate the risk by studying a GM Bt cotton crop’s previous introduction in Maharashtra. The significant problem is that the scientifically assessed risk of using GMO (Genetically Modified Organisms) is possibly affected by the perceived risk as seen by public opinion and some public policy. The reason is that GMO is a debatable topic with different scientific bodies with varied views, and some NGO and environmental agency are totally against it.My first step was to collect data. Data on all the lands that used Bt cotton seeds, data of economic gain for farmers and government, data on the condition of land before and after production, data of effect on the environment, and the data of life-associated risk included both farmers and consumers. After collecting the data, I calculated risk using the Von Neumann–Morgenstern utility function. ( It shows that when a consumer has a choice of items or outcomes subject to various levels of chance, the optimal decision will be the one that maximizes the expected value of the utility (i.e., satisfaction) derived from the choice made.) The expected value is the sum of the products of the various utilities and their associated probabilities. The consumer ranks the items or outcomes in terms of preference, but their likelihood of occurrence will condition the predicted value. It leads us to a beneficial representation of attitudes towards risk, which could be mapped, and it helps in the decision-making process when faced with a threat.The result was the government was enthusiastic about the use of Bt cotton and its effect on increased production. Unfortunately, the data showed that the outcome was not very favorable for farmers. The land went barren, and the pests became more resistant; there were many cases of farmers’ suicide linked to using this crop. To conclude, the government stopped the plan to launch GM mustard seeds and recommended further studies.B ) Evidence that you are able to handle the wider implications of your work as an engineeri) Ability to handle health, hazard and safety aspects: to apply appropriate principles, good practice, meet legislative requirements etc.As a project manager, I was in charge of planning and implementing safety rules according to the manual of India’s lab.My role was to chart out the rules as per the project’s need and hold a meeting with the safety engineers and hazard control teaMy role was also to check the implantation of the rules.For example, when I was Monitoring the GM (Genetically Modified) mustard seeds and cotton, I was in charge of the Biosafety manual. My role included dividing the used microorganism according to four levels of Biosafety for genetic engineering experiments. There are four safety levels in which the first level requires the least safety precaution, and level four demands the most stringent safety rules. The manual “Regulations and guidelines for recombinant DNA research and biocontainment, 2017 by India’s government has all the rules published.My role was also to provide and order Personal Protective Equipment, which includes personal protective items such as gloves, coats, gowns, shoe covers, boots, respirators, face shields, and safety glasses. The manager must call the labs and confirm the demands, then coordinate the external suppliers for the best deal, order the equipment, and then check the items on delivery, according to the order list. The order list specifies the size, the number of equipment, etc. required in the lab.I also supervised biosafety training activities for team members where non-bioengineers were informed about the safety rules when visiting the labs and coordinated the development and preparation of content for the Institutional Biosafety Committee web page. I also developed and prepared the range of biosafety training modules and provided guidance and assistance to investigators for institutional and regulatory filings related to Biosafety. I developed emergency plans for handling accidental spills/personnel contamination and investigating lab accidents.I was also in charge of providing advice on laboratory security and technical advice to the team according to Institutional Biosafety committee research safety procedures.ii) Ability to handle sustainability aspects: these could include environmental, public concern and other societal issues, recognition of risks etc.I was in charge of risk assessment associated with the use of microorganisms used for genetic engineering. My role was to identify potential risk(s) associated with the organism(s) and their classification to appropriate risk groups.I was also in charge of disposing of biological waste. My role included the following:1)To steam autoclave all materials for decontamination.2)To make sure that an organism used for genetic engineering either is incapable of survival in the open or severely reduces its ability to survive or reproduce in the free environment. To do so, it was my responsibility first to identify the possible risk(s) associated with the host, vector, and modification(s) proposed and selected appropriate strategies to reduce or limit the risk.2)To check wastewater released from laboratories is not allowed to mix to the general public sewage system. Effluents from all laboratories were collected and treated for proper decontamination according to the set procedures before disposal. Microbiological testing was performed periodically by collecting the samples from the effluents and were checked if harmful microbes are present or not, and the record of the data collected was maintained.3)To ensure that chemical or radiological waste discarded according to the biosafety manuals.4)Ensure that the medical examination of all laboratory personnel working in the containment laboratory is conducted and records maintained for future reference. Along with the data, a baseline serum sample was taken and stored for future reference. 5)I, along with the biosafety team, conducted training as prescribed by the committee so that each worker must be knowledgeable of the steps to take if a (possible) exposure occurs.5) I, with the management team, made a post-exposure management plan in case of an emergency.iii) Ability to handle commercial and economic aspects:As a part of my project, I had to prepare a report on the consumption of Mustard oil in Indian households and the revenue it generated for the government. I did a cost/profit analysis of the data collected by the door to door survey. It revealed a substantial Indian population, especially in rural India, is dependent on mustard oil, and it should mean a huge profit for the government.But the analysis revealed the profit was much lower than expected. Then I did a thorough study of why this is happening by studying various data. It showed that local gangs control the trade, which is what is deterring the potential consumers from buying the oil in bulk.I submitted the report to the committee, and the committee authorized me to take the following actions. 1)The Mandi (wholesale market) rate got fixed by the Agricultural Product Marketing Committee (APMC). 2)The Mandi committee also set the cost for activities such as loading, unloading, weighing, brokerage, and cleaning to check unauthorized goods from entering the marketplace. And it helped the government increases profit by 32% in the following fiscal year.My role also included in the cost estimation of the projects; This included equipment costs, cost of building/warehouses, staff recruitment and its fees, cost of hardware/software update, costs of chemicals/reagents for labs, computer installation, and other lab equipment costs and additional miscellaneous costs. I also conducted a meeting with the accounts and HR teams for a thorough cost/profit analysis.) Managing interpersonal relationships:C ) Evidence of your interpersonal, leadership and communication skillsi) Managing interpersonal relationships:As a project manager, my work required me to interact not only within the department but to people outside my office and department.To get the project approval, I work with the approval team, including the chairmen of all the departments involved, and government representatives.After the project is approved, I work with accounts and another engineering team to estimate the cost and equipment needed.Then I work with the market research team to know the best and cost-effective equipment, chemicals, etc.Then I work with external suppliers and put out my cost to fill the tender or contract.In between, I have to keep all the department informed about the dates/time/cost, etc.After getting the equipment, etc., I work with safety engineers and inspection teams to set the labs or warehouses.Then with the HR manager, we select the appropriate candidates for particular projects based on education and experience.After the initial beginning of the project, my role included communicating with all departments involved in the project, preparing the weekly report, presentation of reports to my supervisors, sharing the feedback back to the team and achieving monthly targets, checking with all involved for the smooth functioning of the project.ii) Demonstrating leadership in a professional role:Lack of communication between departments was the main reason for delays in the project. So I made a forum in which all people at all levels could join. It only needed a phone number and moderator approval. This small step also enabled the suppliers and external workers to join. And allowed the easy flow of communication and made the working environment more friendly and supportive. Apart from a standard group in a forum, I also added subgroups of every division, which had to update their work weekly.I am also the vice president of the Entrepreneurship club of my university, and I have used that space to connect my work experience for the welfare of rural farmers. I organized a public seminar on the use of natural farming so that farmers could reduce their usage of fertilizers and pesticides. The use of pesticides is an expensive affair for the farmers; many farmers spend a significant amount on fertilizers and pesticides to save their crops. In turn, it is making the land infertile and more resistant to pesticides as they tend to adapt and evolve with new and more potent strains. The result mostly is another crop loss, which pushes farmers to extreme steps such as suicide. The impact hurts the economy, which in turn puts every commodity at a high price, a phenomenon widespread in India these days. The seminar informed farmers about an alternative and cost-effective farming method, which is farming using natural methods. Employees of the government’s agriculture department, local farmers, pesticides, and chemical manufacturers attended the seminar. I also wanted to convince pesticide manufacturers to start manufacturing products used in natural farming, so that their businesses did not get impacted. The event was a huge success, and reports of some local farmers already implementing what they had learned in the seminar. It has also linked my professional group to other similar groups of different states, earning me many accolades from my colleagues.iii) Communicating ideas and plans by report writing and oral presentation:I have to give weekly presentations of my work to my supervisors. It includes submitting a progress report that consists of both technical information for ongoing projects and a cost/profit analysis.Apart from weekly office presentations, I regularly travel to other states and deliver seminars and presentations as a part of the government initiative.I have written a thesis for my MTech degree, and have published two papers in The Indian Agricultural Journal, August, 2016and October 2016. The title of the article is as follows.1) GM crop and Indian economy 2) GM crop and its drawbacks. I am also a member of the biosafety committee and regularly write for the Safety Manual.I am also conducting independent research and am about to publish my work, including paper presentations and this writing.D Evidence to show that you are committed to high standards of professional and ethical conductD1:PROFESSIONAL CONDUCTAs a bio-engineer, I have to follow many national and international rules, and I have fully adhered to them. There are six committees in the government of India, namely the Recombinant DNA Advisory Committee (RDAC), Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBSC)Review Committee on Genetic Manipulation (RCGM), Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC), State Biotechnology Coordination Committee (SBCC), District Level Committee (DLC). I have adhered to all the rules set by every committee, depending on my projects. I regularly attended their seminars and workshops to keep myself updated.I have ensured that the biosafety rules appropriately adhere to any projects. I confirmed that all staff are trained for emergencies and maintained all their training and health records.I have also trained ten junior engineers under me.I have always made extra efforts for disposal of biological waste, strictly adhering to rules for the safety of the environment.I was also responsible for delivering the project on time and making a profit, and all my projects were completed with an l profit typically 30% more than previous projects.D2: ETHICAL DECISION MAKINGWorking for the Government of India meant dealing with a lot of confidential data. I have maintained a high level of ethics to not only use those data for the government profit but also made sure despite dealing with a vast number of external clients and workers, and data are safe.I also had access to restricted chemicals and bio-organisms, but I ensured a strict level of ethics when dealing with restricted chemicals/organisms.I have to be very vigilant while accessing restricted abs and checking for any misconduct.I once saw the high-security bio lab open after the prescribed time, and on the inspection with safety staff, I found that the person-in-charge had left the access reader card in an unsecured state. I immediately brought the matter to management. Management conducted training to avoid such mishaps in the future, which could be lethal not only for the organization but for the whole nation.