Top 12 Lab Analyst Skills to Put on Your Resume

In the competitive field of laboratory analysis, showcasing a strong set of skills on your resume can set you apart from other candidates. Highlighting your top lab analyst skills demonstrates your ability to perform complex tests, analyze data accurately, and contribute effectively to scientific research and development.

Lab Analyst Skills

1. HPLC
2. GC-MS
3. PCR
4. ELISA
5. Spectrophotometry
6. Chromatography
7. Mass Spectrometry
8. Bioinformatics
9. NMR Spectroscopy
10. Flow Cytometry
11. Electrophoresis
12. LIMS

1. HPLC

HPLC, or High-Performance Liquid Chromatography, is a technique used by lab analysts for separating, identifying, and quantifying components in a mixture, utilizing a high-pressure system to push solvents through a column filled with a stationary phase.

Why It's Important

HPLC (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography) is essential for a Lab Analyst because it allows for the precise separation, identification, and quantification of compounds in complex mixtures, ensuring accurate results in pharmaceutical, environmental, and biochemical analysis.

How to Improve HPLC Skills

Improving High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) performance entails optimizing various parameters to enhance resolution, sensitivity, and speed. Here are concise strategies for a lab analyst:

1. Column Selection: Choose the appropriate column material, size, and particle size for your application. Smaller particles provide better resolution but require higher pressure. Selecting the Right Column.

2. Mobile Phase Optimization: Adjust the composition and pH of the mobile phase to improve peak shape and separation. Using a gradient can often enhance separation efficiency. Mobile Phase Optimization.

3. Temperature Control: Utilize column temperature control to enhance reproducibility and speed up analysis. The Effects of Temperature on HPLC Analysis.

4. Sample Preparation: Ensure samples are properly prepared and filtered to prevent column clogging and ensure consistent results. Sample Preparation Techniques.

5. Flow Rate Optimization: Adjust the flow rate to balance between analysis time and resolution. Slower flow rates generally improve resolution but increase analysis time. Flow Rate Effects on HPLC.

6. Instrument Maintenance: Regularly maintain and calibrate the HPLC system to avoid issues with accuracy and reproducibility. Maintaining Your HPLC System.

By methodically optimizing these aspects, a lab analyst can significantly improve HPLC performance, leading to more accurate and reliable results.

How to Display HPLC Skills on Your Resume

2. GC-MS

GC-MS (Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry) is an analytical technique that combines the features of gas chromatography and mass spectrometry to identify different substances within a test sample. It is widely used in forensic, environmental, and chemical analysis to separate and identify compounds that can be vaporized without decomposition.

Why It's Important

GC-MS (Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry) is crucial for a Lab Analyst because it allows for the precise identification and quantification of compounds in complex mixtures, providing detailed molecular information essential for chemical analysis, quality control, and research.

How to Improve GC-MS Skills

Improving Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) performance involves optimizing both the gas chromatography (GC) and mass spectrometry (MS) components, along with sample preparation and data analysis techniques. Here's a concise guide for a Lab Analyst:

1. Sample Preparation: Ensure clean, concentrated samples. Use appropriate extraction and cleanup methods to reduce matrix effects. Sample Preparation Techniques.

2. GC Optimization:

   • Column Selection: Choose the correct column material and dimensions for your analytes. GC Column Selection Guide.
   • Carrier Gas Flow Rate: Optimize for the best balance between analysis time and peak resolution. Carrier Gas Flow Rate Effects.
   • Temperature Programming: Use appropriate temperature ramps to achieve the best separation. Temperature Programming in GC.

3. MS Optimization:

   • Ionization Source Adjustment: Ensure the ionization source is optimized for your sample type (e.g., EI, CI). Ionization Techniques in MS.
   • Mass Analyzer Calibration: Regularly calibrate the mass analyzer for accurate mass determination. Mass Analyzer Calibration.
   • Detector Voltage: Adjust for maximum sensitivity without sacrificing resolution. Optimizing MS Detectors.

4. Method Development:

   • Validation Parameters: Validate your method for precision, accuracy, linearity, range, and limits of detection/quantification. Method Validation in GC-MS.
   • Quality Control: Implement rigorous QC checks with calibration standards, blanks, and quality control samples. Quality Control in GC-MS.

5. Data Analysis:

   • Software Utilization: Use advanced software for data acquisition, processing, and interpretation. GC-MS Software Tools.
   • Peak Deconvolution: Employ peak deconvolution algorithms to resolve overlapping peaks. Peak Deconvolution Techniques.

6. Maintenance: Regular instrument maintenance prevents issues and ensures consistent performance. GC-MS Maintenance Guide.

Adhering to these guidelines can significantly enhance the performance and reliability of GC-MS analysis in a laboratory setting.

How to Display GC-MS Skills on Your Resume

3. PCR

PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) is a molecular biology technique used to amplify specific DNA sequences, enabling detailed analysis and detection of genetic material.

Why It's Important

PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) is crucial for a Lab Analyst because it enables the rapid and precise amplification of specific DNA sequences, facilitating the detection, identification, and analysis of genetic material in various samples.

How to Improve PCR Skills

To improve PCR efficiency and accuracy, follow these concise tips:

1. Optimize Primer Design: Use software tools like Primer3 to design primers with appropriate melting temperatures, lengths, and GC content, avoiding secondary structures and primer-dimer formation.

2. Adjust MgCl2 Concentration: Optimize the MgCl2 concentration, as it affects the activity of DNA polymerase and primer annealing.

3. Optimize Annealing Temperature: Use a gradient PCR to find the optimal annealing temperature that balances specificity and yield. Resources like NEB's Tm Calculator can help.

4. Use High-Fidelity DNA Polymerases: For applications requiring high accuracy, use high-fidelity enzymes like Q5® High-Fidelity DNA Polymerase which have lower error rates.

5. Ensure Template Quality: Use pure, intact DNA or RNA as the template. Assess quality and quantity with spectrophotometry or fluorometry.

6. Include a Hot-Start Step: Use hot-start DNA polymerases to reduce non-specific amplification. These enzymes are activated at higher temperatures.

7. Optimize the Component Ratios: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for each component and adjust the dNTPs, primers, and DNA polymerase ratios if necessary.

8. Perform a Negative Control: Always include a negative control to check for contamination.

9. Use a Positive Control: Include a positive control to ensure that the PCR reaction has been set up correctly.

By following these steps and continually optimizing based on specific reactions and templates, you can significantly improve PCR outcomes. For a comprehensive understanding and additional tips, refer to resources like the PCR Troubleshooting Guide from Thermo Fisher Scientific.

How to Display PCR Skills on Your Resume

4. ELISA

ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) is a plate-based assay technique designed for detecting and quantifying substances such as peptides, proteins, antibodies, and hormones. In the context of a Lab Analyst, ELISA is used for analyzing biochemical samples for specific antigens or antibodies, utilizing enzyme-linked antigens or antibodies as markers for detection.

Why It's Important

ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) is crucial for Lab Analysts because it provides a sensitive, specific, and quantitative method for detecting and measuring specific proteins, hormones, antibodies, and antigens in samples, enabling accurate diagnostics and research applications.

How to Improve ELISA Skills

Improving ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) performance involves optimizing various assay conditions and components to enhance sensitivity, specificity, and reproducibility. Here's a concise guide for a Lab Analyst:

1. Optimize Coating Conditions: Adjust the concentration and incubation time of the capture antibody/protein for optimal coating of the microplate wells. Optimization Tips.

2. Block Effectively: Use an appropriate blocking buffer to reduce non-specific binding. Experiment with different blocking agents and concentrations. Blocking Strategies.

3. Optimize Antibody Concentrations: Titrate both capture and detection antibodies to determine the optimal concentrations that provide the highest signal-to-noise ratio. Antibody Titration.

4. Sample and Reagent Dilution: Properly dilute samples and reagents to fall within the dynamic range of the assay. Serial dilutions can help identify the optimal dilution factor. Sample Preparation.

5. Incubation Conditions: Fine-tune incubation times and temperatures. Longer incubation times or increased temperatures can enhance antigen-antibody binding, but be vigilant of potential overdevelopment. Incubation Optimization.

6. Washing Steps: Ensure thorough washing between steps to remove unbound substances. Optimizing the number of washes and the wash buffer can minimize background noise. Washing Optimization.

7. Selection of Detection System: Choose the most suitable substrate and detection method (colorimetric, fluorescent, or chemiluminescent) for your assay's sensitivity requirements. Detection Methods.

8. Data Analysis: Employ proper curve-fitting and data analysis techniques. Consider using software tools designed for ELISA data analysis for more accurate and reliable results. Data Analysis.

Remember, consistency in technique and reagent handling is key to achieving reliable ELISA results. Always run controls and optimize each step according to your specific assay requirements.

How to Display ELISA Skills on Your Resume

5. Spectrophotometry

Spectrophotometry is a quantitative analytical technique used in laboratories to measure the amount of light absorbed by a chemical solution at a specific wavelength, allowing for the determination of the concentration of a solute within that solution.

Why It's Important

Spectrophotometry is crucial for a Lab Analyst as it enables precise and accurate measurement of substance concentrations, facilitating the analysis of chemical compounds, quality control, and the verification of sample purity. This technique supports a broad range of applications across various fields, including pharmaceuticals, environmental monitoring, and biochemical analysis, making it an indispensable tool in analytical laboratories.

How to Improve Spectrophotometry Skills

Improving spectrophotometry in a laboratory setting involves enhancing accuracy, precision, and efficiency. Follow these concise strategies:

1. Calibration and Validation: Regularly calibrate and validate your spectrophotometer against known standards. This ensures accuracy and repeatability. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) offers guidelines and standards.

2. Sample Preparation: Ensure consistent and proper sample preparation. Avoid contamination and use appropriate solvents. Analytical Chemistry often publishes tips and protocols.

3. Instrument Maintenance: Regular maintenance and cleaning of the spectrophotometer and its components prevent drift and inaccuracies. Refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific maintenance protocols.

4. Method Optimization: Optimize your assay conditions including wavelength, bandwidth, and sample concentration for maximum sensitivity and specificity. Resources like Journal of Analytical Methods in Chemistry provide insights into method development.

5. Software Utilization: Use software for data analysis to reduce human error and improve data interpretation. Ensure software is up to date.

6. Training: Continuous training on instrument use, data interpretation, and troubleshooting for laboratory analysts. Online courses and webinars from spectrophotometer manufacturers and Coursera can be valuable.

7. Quality Control: Implement stringent quality control measures including the use of control samples and inter-laboratory comparisons. American Association for Clinical Chemistry (AACC) offers resources on quality control.

By adhering to these practices, a lab analyst can significantly improve the performance and reliability of spectrophotometric analyses.

How to Display Spectrophotometry Skills on Your Resume

6. Chromatography

Chromatography is a laboratory technique used for separating and analyzing mixtures of chemicals into their individual components, based on their different interactions with a stationary phase and a mobile phase.

Why It's Important

Chromatography is crucial for a Lab Analyst because it enables the separation, identification, and quantification of components in a mixture, facilitating purity assessment, contaminant detection, and quality control of samples.

How to Improve Chromatography Skills

To improve chromatography as a Lab Analyst, focus on optimizing key parameters and employing best practices.

1. Column Selection: Choose the correct column material and size for your analyte and matrix. Selecting the Right Column provides guidance.

2. Sample Preparation: Ensure samples are clean, properly diluted, and free from particulate matter to avoid column damage. Sample Preparation Techniques outlines various methods.

3. Mobile Phase Optimization: Adjust the mobile phase composition, pH, and ionic strength for better resolution and peak shape. Mobile Phase Considerations offers insights.

4. Flow Rate and Temperature Control: Optimize flow rates and temperature for efficiency and resolution. Understanding the effects can be found in Flow Rate and Temperature Effects.

5. Method Development and Validation: Develop and rigorously validate your methods to ensure reliability and reproducibility. Guidelines for Method Development and Validation by the FDA.

6. Regular Maintenance and Troubleshooting: Perform regular maintenance of your chromatography system and troubleshoot problems promptly. Agilent Technologies offers a useful resource with their Maintenance and Troubleshooting Guide.

7. Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest techniques, technologies, and best practices in chromatography. Join webinars, workshops, and courses offered by professional organizations such as the American Chemical Society.

By focusing on these areas, you can significantly improve chromatography performance in your laboratory.

How to Display Chromatography Skills on Your Resume

7. Mass Spectrometry

Mass spectrometry is an analytical technique used to identify substances within a sample by measuring the mass-to-charge ratio of ions. It is widely used in laboratories for qualitative and quantitative analysis of compounds, including identification of unknowns, determination of molecular structure, and measurement of isotopic compositions.

Why It's Important

Mass spectrometry is crucial for a lab analyst because it enables precise identification and quantification of compounds in samples, providing detailed molecular information essential for chemical analysis, quality control, and research.

How to Improve Mass Spectrometry Skills

Improving Mass Spectrometry (MS) involves enhancing sensitivity, accuracy, resolution, and throughput. For a Lab Analyst, consider these concise strategies:

1. Optimize Sample Preparation: Ensure clean, concentrated samples to reduce background noise and enhance signal. Techniques like solid-phase extraction (SPE) can be pivotal. Sample Preparation Techniques for Mass Spectrometry.

2. Calibration and Maintenance: Regular calibration of the mass spectrometer and upkeep of the instrument, including cleaning ion sources and vacuum systems, ensure optimal performance. Mass Spectrometer Maintenance Tips.

3. Use High-Quality Reagents: The purity of solvents and reagents can significantly affect the MS analysis. Always opt for MS-grade reagents. Selecting Reagents for Mass Spectrometry.

4. Method Development and Optimization: Tailor your MS method to the specific analysis. This includes optimizing ionization techniques (e.g., ESI, MALDI), collision energies for MS/MS, and chromatographic separation conditions. Method Development in Mass Spectrometry.

5. Data Analysis Software: Utilize advanced data analysis software for more accurate peak identification, quantitation, and data interpretation. Software updates and training can significantly improve data quality. Mass Spectrometry Data Analysis.

6. Stay Updated: Keeping abreast of the latest advancements in MS technology, software, and methodologies through workshops, webinars, and literature can introduce new techniques and efficiencies in your workflow. Journal of the American Society for Mass Spectrometry.

By implementing these strategies, Lab Analysts can significantly enhance the performance and productivity of mass spectrometry analysis in their laboratories.

How to Display Mass Spectrometry Skills on Your Resume

8. Bioinformatics

Bioinformatics is the application of computer technology to manage and analyze biological data, helping in understanding genetic sequences and molecular structures for research and diagnosis in fields like genomics and proteomics. For a Lab Analyst, it involves using software and algorithms to process biological data, such as DNA/RNA sequences, to support experiments and analyses.

Why It's Important

Bioinformatics is crucial for a Lab Analyst because it enables the efficient analysis and interpretation of complex biological data, facilitating the identification of genetic markers, understanding disease mechanisms, and developing targeted therapies, thereby enhancing accuracy and efficiency in research and diagnostics.

How to Improve Bioinformatics Skills

Improving bioinformatics, especially for a Lab Analyst, involves continuous learning, applying best practices, and utilizing advanced tools. Here's a concise guide:

1. Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest developments in bioinformatics through resources like Coursera and edX, which offer courses on various bioinformatics topics.

2. Networking and Collaboration: Join forums such as BioStars and SEQanswers to exchange knowledge with peers.

3. Practice Coding: Enhance your coding skills in languages relevant to bioinformatics, such as Python or R. Resources like Codecademy can be very helpful.

4. Utilize Bioinformatics Tools: Familiarize yourself with key bioinformatics software and databases. A comprehensive list can be found on ExPASy.

5. Data Management Skills: Improve your data management capabilities by learning best practices in data storage and analysis. The NIH Data Science Training website is a valuable resource.

6. Understand Statistics and Machine Learning: Courses on Khan Academy or fast.ai will help you understand the statistical and machine learning methods commonly used in bioinformatics.

7. Participate in Workshops and Conferences: Attend workshops and conferences, such as those listed on ISCB, to stay informed about cutting-edge research and network with professionals.

8. Read Scientific Literature: Keep abreast of the latest research by reading articles in journals like Bioinformatics and PLOS Computational Biology.

Improvement in bioinformatics is a continuous process of learning, practicing, and engaging with the community.

How to Display Bioinformatics Skills on Your Resume

9. NMR Spectroscopy

NMR Spectroscopy, or Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy, is an analytical technique used by lab analysts to determine the structure, dynamics, reaction state, and chemical environment of molecules by observing the magnetic properties of atomic nuclei.

Why It's Important

NMR Spectroscopy is crucial for a Lab Analyst because it provides detailed information about the molecular structure, dynamics, and environment of compounds, enabling precise identification and characterization of substances in a sample.

How to Improve NMR Spectroscopy Skills

To enhance NMR spectroscopy in a laboratory setting, follow these concise strategies:

1. Sample Preparation: Ensure optimal concentration and purity. Use deuterated solvents to minimize background signals. Sample Preparation for NMR

2. Optimization of Parameters: Fine-tune acquisition parameters such as the number of scans (for signal-to-noise ratio), pulse width, and relaxation delay according to your sample's requirements. Optimizing NMR Experiments

3. Temperature Control: Conduct experiments at optimal temperatures to improve resolution, especially for samples that exhibit better molecular motion at higher temperatures. Temperature Control in NMR

4. Use of Shims: Proper shimming is crucial for achieving homogeneous magnetic fields, which is vital for high-resolution spectra. Shimming in NMR

5. Advanced Pulse Sequences: Utilize advanced pulse sequences and multidimensional NMR techniques for complex mixtures or to resolve overlapping signals. Advanced NMR Techniques

6. Software and Data Analysis: Employ up-to-date NMR software for data acquisition and analysis to extract maximum information from your spectra. NMR Data Analysis

7. Regular Instrument Maintenance and Calibration: Ensure the NMR spectrometer is well-maintained and calibrated for consistent performance. NMR Instrument Maintenance

By adopting these strategies, lab analysts can significantly improve the quality and interpretability of NMR spectroscopy results.

How to Display NMR Spectroscopy Skills on Your Resume

10. Flow Cytometry

Flow cytometry is a laboratory technique used to measure physical and chemical characteristics of cells or particles as they flow in a fluid stream through a laser beam, allowing for rapid analysis of multiple parameters of individual cells or particles for research or clinical purposes.

Why It's Important

Flow cytometry is important for a Lab Analyst because it allows for rapid and precise analysis of multiple parameters of individual cells within large populations, enabling detailed characterization of cell types, states, and functions. This facilitates accurate diagnostics, research, and monitoring of biological processes and treatments.

How to Improve Flow Cytometry Skills

Improving flow cytometry in a laboratory setting involves several key steps focused on sample preparation, instrument calibration, and data analysis. Here's a concise guide:

1. Sample Preparation: Ensure cells are at an optimal concentration and viability. Use uniform cell suspensions to avoid clumps. Implementing a consistent sample preparation protocol can significantly enhance reproducibility. BD Biosciences offers detailed guidance on sample preparation.

2. Instrument Calibration: Regular calibration and maintenance of the flow cytometer are crucial. Use calibration beads and perform daily quality control to maintain instrument sensitivity and specificity. Thermo Fisher Scientific provides insights on optimizing flow cytometer performance.

3. Panel Design: Carefully design your antibody panel to avoid spectral overlap and ensure the fluorophores match the instrument's laser lines and filters. Tools like FluoroFinder can assist in designing multicolor panels efficiently.

4. Controls: Use appropriate controls, including unstained cells, fluorescence minus one (FMO) controls, and compensation controls, to accurately set gates and compensate for spectral overlap. This step is critical for accurate data interpretation.

5. Data Analysis: Utilize software tools efficiently for data analysis. Consistent gating strategies and the use of automated analysis tools can improve accuracy and speed. FlowJo is a widely used software offering powerful data analysis capabilities.

6. Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest advancements in flow cytometry techniques, software, and protocols by accessing resources from CYTO University by the International Society for Advancement of Cytometry (ISAC).

By focusing on these areas, lab analysts can significantly improve the quality and reliability of flow cytometry data, enhancing research outcomes and diagnostic accuracy.

How to Display Flow Cytometry Skills on Your Resume

11. Electrophoresis

Electrophoresis is a laboratory technique used to separate DNA, RNA, or protein molecules based on their size and charge by applying an electric field to move the molecules through a gel or other medium.

Why It's Important

Electrophoresis is crucial for a Lab Analyst as it enables the separation and analysis of macromolecules (like DNA, RNA, and proteins) based on size and charge, facilitating the identification, quantification, and purification of samples for further research and diagnostic purposes.

How to Improve Electrophoresis Skills

Improving electrophoresis involves optimizing key factors to enhance resolution, speed, and reproducibility. For a Lab Analyst, consider the following concise tips:

1. Buffer Selection: Choose the appropriate buffer system for your sample type and target resolution. Good's Buffers offer a range of pH values and ionic strengths for different applications.

2. Gel Concentration: Tailor the polyacrylamide gel concentration to the size of the molecules being separated. Higher concentrations are better for small molecules. Bio-Rad's Gel Percentage Guide provides insights on choosing the right percentage.

3. Sample Preparation: Ensure samples are properly prepared by cleaning and concentrating them if necessary. Using a protein concentration kit can improve the quality of your results.

4. Loading Controls: Use appropriate loading controls for quantitative comparisons. This guide by Abcam helps in selecting the right loading controls.

5. Voltage and Running Time: Optimize the voltage and running time to balance between resolution and speed. Lower voltages yield better resolution but take longer. Thermo Fisher's guide provides tips on voltage optimization.

6. Gel Staining: Choose an effective staining method for easy visualization of your results. Coomassie blue and silver staining are common, but more sensitive stains like SYBR Green are available for specific applications. Sigma-Aldrich's staining guide compares different methods.

7. Regular Equipment Maintenance: Ensure that your electrophoresis equipment is regularly maintained and calibrated for consistent results. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for maintenance and troubleshooting.

By focusing on these areas, Lab Analysts can significantly improve the quality and efficiency of electrophoresis experiments.

How to Display Electrophoresis Skills on Your Resume

12. LIMS

LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System) is a software-based solution used by lab analysts to manage samples, laboratory workflows, data, and reports, ensuring efficiency and compliance with standards.

Why It's Important

LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System) is crucial for a Lab Analyst as it streamlines data management, enhances accuracy, automates workflows, and ensures compliance, significantly improving lab efficiency and productivity.

How to Improve LIMS Skills

To improve a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) from a Lab Analyst's perspective, focus on:

1. Customization: Tailor the LIMS to fit the specific workflows and data reporting needs of the lab. LabLynx offers examples of customizable LIMS solutions.

2. Integration: Ensure seamless integration with existing lab instruments and software for automatic data capture. Thermo Fisher provides LIMS that integrate with various lab instruments.

3. Training: Invest in comprehensive training programs for users to maximize the system’s utility and efficiency. LabWare offers LIMS training services.

4. User-Friendly Interface: Opt for a LIMS with an intuitive, easy-to-navigate interface to reduce errors and improve efficiency. Benchling is known for its user-friendly interface.

5. Mobile Access: Choose a LIMS that offers mobile access to allow analysts to view and enter data on-the-go. Abbott Informatics provides mobile solutions for LIMS.

6. Automation: Automate repetitive tasks such as data entry and sample tracking to reduce manual errors and save time. Autoscribe Informatics specializes in automation features for LIMS.

7. Data Security: Ensure the LIMS has robust security features to protect sensitive data. CloudLIMS focuses on secure, cloud-based LIMS solutions.

8. Scalability: Select a LIMS that can grow with your lab, accommodating more samples, tests, and data over time. STARLIMS offers scalable LIMS solutions.

9. Reporting: Opt for a LIMS with flexible and comprehensive reporting tools to easily generate meaningful reports. Agilent provides LIMS with advanced reporting capabilities.

10. Feedback Loop: Establish a feedback loop with LIMS users to continually assess and improve the system based on user experience. Waters emphasizes collaborative feedback in LIMS development.

By focusing on these key areas, Lab Analysts can significantly improve the functionality and efficiency of a LIMS, enhancing both the quality and speed of laboratory operations.

How to Display LIMS Skills on Your Resume