Alaric McCarthy

Penny Harrison

Natural Toxins Team Leader

Role at Cawthron

Penny leads the Cawthron Labs Natural Toxins section, made up of the Biotoxin and Microalgae Laboratories. The Biotoxin Laboratory undertakes the testing of seafood for marine biotoxins and of fresh water for cyanotoxins, predominantly by liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS). The Microalgae Laboratory provides analyses of marine and fresh water to identify algae species of interest to regulatory bodies, commercial customers, regional councils, and water supply authorities.

With over 20 years’ experience in both research and commercial laboratories, Penny has been in her current role since 2023. Penny works hands-on in both laboratories, liaising closely with customers and regulatory authorities.

Technical skills, experience and interests

  • Analytical chemistry and microalgae identification

  • Supervision of International Accreditation New Zealand (IANZ) and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) accredited laboratories

  • Analytical support to both national and international shellfish industries

  • Method validation

  • Ministry of Primary Industries Recognised Laboratory Programme (RLP) signatory

  • International Accreditation New Zealand (IANZ) Key Technical Personnel (KTP) for chemistry and biology testing

Qualifications

  • MSc, University of Otago, 2000.

Alaric McCarthy