Andile Shezi
Kempton Park
Summary
Biotechnology graduate and laboratory technician with experience in molecular biology, microbiology, and laboratory quality control within regulated laboratory environments. Proficient in DNA/RNA extraction, PCR-based techniques, gel electrophoresis, and maintaining accurate sample traceability under GMP and SOP-driven workflows. Academic and laboratory training includes plant biotechnology, molecular markers, CRISPR technology, and plant DNA barcoding. Familiar with laboratory techniques used in plant pathology and seed health testing, including fungal plating, pathogen detection workflows, germination testing, and seed diagnostic assays. Recognized for strong attention to detail, sterile laboratory practices, and accurate scientific documentation in research and analytical laboratory settings.
Overview
2
2
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Laboratory Assistant
Inqaba Biotechnical Industries
01.2024 - 02.2026
- Conducted routine molecular biology workflows including DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, and gel electrophoresis to support laboratory analysis and research activities
- Prepared, labelled, tracked, and stored biological samples in line with SOPs, traceability requirements, and contamination control procedures
- Assisted with sequencing preparation and introductory bioinformatics analysis, ensuring data accuracy and integrity
- Operated laboratory equipment such as centrifuges and autoclaves, maintaining clean and compliant workspaces
- Supported a GMP-aligned laboratory environment through proper documentation, safety practices, and quality procedures
Production & Quality Control Intern
Collaborative Packing Solutions
11.2023 - 12.2023
- Assisted with quality inspection and testing of packaged products
- Applied GMP principles in product handling, labelling, and batch documentation
- Gained exposure to quality assurance workflows within an industrial production environment
Education
Advanced Diploma (NQF 7) - Biotechnology
University of Johannesburg
12-2025
Diploma (NQF 6) - Biotechnology
University of Johannesburg
12-2024
Skills
- Molecular Biology & Genetics: DNA/RNA extraction, LGC Genomics, PCR/qPCR, gel electrophoresis, SNP and KASP assay genotyping, NGS fundamentals, CRISPR genome editing, plant DNA barcoding (rbcL, matk, trnH-psbA), molecular markers for crop improvement
- Plant Biotechnology & Microbiology: Explant sterilisation, protoplast isolation, plant tissue culture, microbial culturing, phytochemical screening, aseptic techniques
- Laboratory Operations & Quality Control: SOP/GMP compliance, ISO 17025 awareness, documentation and traceability, inventory management, autoclave sterilisation, biological waste handling, lab safety
- Instrumentation & Data Handling: Centrifugation, pipetting, basic chromatography, instrument calibration/maintenance, data recording, database management
- Computer & Data Skills: Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, scientific data recording and reporting; Bioinformatics analysis
Interests
Seed quality testing, Plant breeding technologies, Molecular markers & qPCR, NGS applications in agriculture, Crop improvement & agricultural biotechnology innovation
Certification
- AgriCareer Connect Programme
- GENOMAC Institute Inc. - Genomics & Bioinformatics Bootcamp
- Zymo Research – Molecular biology techniques
- Eppendorf – Pipetting & equipment handling
- Thermo Fisher Scientific – Good pipetting practice
- First Aid Level 1
LANGUAGES
English: C2 Proficient
isiZulu: C2 Proficient
Setswana: A2 Elementary
Interests
- Seed quality testing
- Plant breeding technologies
- Molecular markers & qPCR
- NGS applications in agriculture
- Crop improvement & agricultural biotechnology innovation
References
- Pulane Mokoatle, Inqaba Biotechnical Industries, 0765789346
- Wisani Baloyi, Collaborative Packing Solutions, 0670678539
Timeline
Laboratory Assistant
Inqaba Biotechnical Industries
01.2024 - 02.2026
Production & Quality Control Intern
Collaborative Packing Solutions
11.2023 - 12.2023
Diploma (NQF 6) - Biotechnology
University of Johannesburg
Advanced Diploma (NQF 7) - Biotechnology
University of Johannesburg