I am a dedicated and driven researcher with a robust academic background in chemistry, currently pursuing a PhD at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) in Durban. My research focuses on the synthesis and characterization of peptides, specifically exploring the use of 1,3,5-triazine as a linker in the synthesis of dendrimer-based peptides through solid-phase peptide synthesis. I have been a PhD student and research fellow at the Peptide Sciences Laboratory since January 2020, where I have gained extensive experience in peptide chemistry, utilizing various analytical instruments such as HPLC, LCMS, and NMR. My research includes the synthesis of antibacterial triazine-based super-cationic branched peptides, and I have contributed to the scientific community by authoring technical papers for high-impact journals and presenting findings at national and international conferences.
In addition to my PhD studies, I have served as a research assistant at the Peptide Sciences Laboratory since June 2018. In this role, I have designed and delivered presentations summarizing our research findings, collaborated on research reports and publications, and mentored students to help them achieve their academic goals. My commitment to education is further demonstrated by my role as a mentor at the School of Chemistry and Physics at UKZN since May 2018, where I provide one-on-one mentoring to first-year chemistry students, adapting my approach to meet their individual needs.
Professional Profile:
Google Scholar
Experience 🧪
PhD Student Research Fellow, 01/2020 – Current Peptide Sciences Laboratory, UKZN – Durban
- Engaged in peptide chemistry research, focusing on synthesis and characterization using HPLC, LCMS, and NMR. 🧬
- Synthesized antibacterial triazine-based super-cationic branched peptides. 🦠
- Led vocational classes, enhancing students’ practical skills. 🎓
- Published technical papers in high-impact peer-reviewed journals. 📑
- Coordinated safe and effective laboratory experiments. 🥼
Research Assistant, 06/2018 – Current Peptide Sciences Laboratory, UKZN – Durban
- Created and presented research findings at national and international conferences. 🌍
- Contributed to collaborative research reports and publications. 📊
- Mentored students to help achieve their academic goals. 🎯
Additional Information 📜
- References and contacts available upon request.
- Academic recommendation letters, experience certificates, and scientific certificates are available.
Core Qualifications 🏅
Certificates:
- Computer and Internet Skills “Huge Courses”
- Certificate of English Proficiency (UKZN 2018)
- Golden Key Membership Certificate
Skills:
- Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines. ⏰
- Sociable, self-initiated, presentable, and a team player. 🤗
- Voluntary work and cultural activities. 🌍
- Proficient in computer and internet usage: software & hardware. 💻
- Expert in using all Windows & MS Office products. 🖥️
Education 🎓
Doctor of Philosophy: Chemistry, 2020-Present University of KwaZulu-Natal
- Thesis: “1,3,5-Triazine, a Suitable Linker in the Synthesis of Dendrimer-Based Peptides using Solid Phase Peptide Synthesis Approach”
Master of Science: Chemistry, 2020 University of KwaZulu-Natal
- Thesis: “2,4,6-Trichloro-1,3,5-Triazine as a Triorthogonal Chemoselective Linker”
Publication Top Notes:
Linkers: An assurance for controlled delivery of antibody-drug conjugate