AMANDA SINENHLANHLA MBHELE
Durban
Summary
PhD candidate in chemistry with a master's degree and specialised knowledge in heterogeneous catalysis, materials synthesis, and characterisation. Proven experience in tutoring, laboratory demonstrations, and independent research, with presentations at national and international conferences. Proficient in scientific writing, data analysis, and collaborative research, demonstrating a commitment to academic excellence and community engagement.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Tutor
Mangosuthu University of Technology
01.2025 - Current
- Tutored students in one-to-one and small group sessions to progress learning.
- Led weekly S2 Physical Chemistry tutorials, enhancing student engagement through problem-solving and discussion sessions.
- Coordinated practical sessions, ensuring smooth activity flow and effective learning outcomes.
Teaching Assistant
University of KwaZulu-Natal
02.2023 - Current
- Conducted weekly tutorials for first and second year chemistry modules, enhancing student understanding and engagement.
- Managed marking of tests and quizzes, providing timely and accurate feedback to support student performance improvement.
- Facilitated practical sessions, coordinating resources and managing flow to optimise student learning experience.
Research Assistant
Durban University of Technology
05.2021 - 10.2023
- Conducted qualitative and quantitative analysis using FT-IR, ICP-OES, and XRD techniques, providing critical data for research projects.
- Supported postgraduate student research experiments and contributed to report writing, enhancing overall research quality.
- Provided support for problem-solving activities during research projects. and ensured accurate calculations, facilitating effective research outcomes.
Dairy Processing intern
Nestle
02.2015 - 04.2015
- Prepared bulk samples for sensory evaluation (colour, texture, taste) and collaborated with team and inline analyst for product release.
- Captured daily outputs, applied correct labelling, and completed PI sheets reconciliation to ensure accuracy.
- Released daily process orders, providing alternatives and guidance to factory planner and store ordering.
- Capture daily consumption of raw and packaging materials by correct process order.
- Updated recipe management systems to ensure accurate specifications.
- Maintained detailed product data on tasting forms to support consistent evaluation.
Research Assistant
University of KwaZulu-Natal
02.2015 - 04.2015
- Conducted laboratory testing, ensuring accuracy in pre- and post-analytical phases and sample preparation.
- Adhered to established methodologies and rigorously followed procedures, policies, and guidelines in routine tasks.
- Maintained cleanliness and sanitation of equipment and workstation to comply with health and safety regulations.
Education
PhD - Chemistry (Heterogeneous Catalysis)
University of KwaZulu-Natal
Durban, KZN07-2026
MSc - Chemistry (Heterogeneous Catalysis)
University of KwaZulu-Natal
Durban, KZN01-2022
BSc Honours - Chemistry
University of KwaZulu-Natal
Durban, KZN01-2019
Bsc. - Chemistry and Chemical Technology
University of KwaZulu-Natal
Durban, KZN01-2016
National Senior Certificate -
Amahlubi Secondary School
Estcourt, KZN01-2011
Skills
- Laboratory techniques
- Scientific writing skills
- Planning and organising
- MS Office proficiency
- Problem solving
- Critical thinking
- Communication skills
- Teamwork
- Good interpersonal skills
Languages
English
Advanced
C1
Zulu
Proficient
C2
Technical skills
- Heterogeneous Catalysis (Physical, Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry)
- Material Characterisation
- X-ray diffraction, N₂-physisorption
- Gas chromatography
- Data analysis
Publications
- The effect of zirconia as a promoter on Cu/MOF-5 catalysts for CO₂ hydrogenation to methanol (2024)
- Effect of thermal treatment on the physicochemical properties of VOx/MgO powders synthesized using the glycine-assisted solution combustion method (2026)
References
- Prof. Mzamo Shozi, University of KwaZulu-Natal, 0312603105/Shozim2@ukzn.ac.za
- Dr. Pinkie Ntola, Durban University of Technology, 0740268086/pinkies@dut.ac.za
- Prof. Alisa Dorasamy, Durban University of Technology, 0313732218/AlisaG@dut.ac.za
Timeline
Tutor
Mangosuthu University of Technology
01.2025 - Current
Teaching Assistant
University of KwaZulu-Natal
02.2023 - Current
Research Assistant
Durban University of Technology
05.2021 - 10.2023
Dairy Processing intern
Nestle
02.2015 - 04.2015
Research Assistant
University of KwaZulu-Natal
02.2015 - 04.2015
PhD - Chemistry (Heterogeneous Catalysis)
University of KwaZulu-Natal
MSc - Chemistry (Heterogeneous Catalysis)
University of KwaZulu-Natal
BSc Honours - Chemistry
University of KwaZulu-Natal
Bsc. - Chemistry and Chemical Technology
University of KwaZulu-Natal
National Senior Certificate -
Amahlubi Secondary School