Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
References
Affiliations
Conference Presentation
Timeline
Generic
Bontle Jessica Sibiya

Bontle Jessica Sibiya

Pretoria North

Summary

HPCSA-registered Medical Scientist (Virology) MS 0006220 with over 4 years of experience in diagnostic, surveillance, and research laboratories. Expertise includes molecular diagnostics, serology, sequencing, and the implementation of robust laboratory quality control systems while ensuring compliance with SANAS accreditation standards. Proficient in conducting independent tests, supervising postgraduate students, and contributing to research projects. Committed to advancing laboratory practices and improving patient outcomes through meticulous diagnostic testing.

Overview

4
4
years of professional experience

Work History

Intern Medical Scientist

Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, National Health Laboratory Service
08.2023 - 07.2025
  • Performed diagnostic testing (PCR, RT-PCR, serological assays and sanger sequencing)
  • Maintained and troubleshot molecular platforms (e.g., Roche Cobas 6000, Abbott Alinity M, GeneXpert instrument)
  • Method verification for HIV-1 and HPV on the Abbott Alinity-M instrument
  • Ensured QC/EQA compliance
  • Completed root cause analyses for non-conforming events and documented corrective actions.
  • Managed inventory and equipment logs per SANAS standards
  • Maintained laboratory quality control procedures in line with ISO 15189.
  • Collaborated with pathologists and technologists, on diagnostic reporting.
  • Reason for Leaving: Contract ended

Research Intern

Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, HWSETA
05.2022 - 05.2023
  • Conducted sample collection and molecular testing for research studies
  • Performed DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, RT-PCR, and sequencing
  • Training postgraduate students on DNA/RNA extraction and PCR protocols
  • Coordinated procurement, suppliers, and maintained laboratory inventory
  • Reason for Leaving: Contract ended

Junior Research Assistant

University of Pretoria, Centre for Viral Zoonoses
09.2020 - 10.2021
  • Conducted nucleic acid extraction (DNA & RNA) in BSL-3 facility
  • Performed PCR and sequencing PCR in BSL-2 facilities
  • Applied DNA barcoding and bioinformatics for zoonotic virus detection
  • Managed sample databases, reagent stock, and laboratory housekeeping
  • Reason for Leaving: Further studies

Education

MSc Medicine (Medical Virology) -

Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
12-2025

BSc (Hons) Medical Sciences (Virology) - Virology

Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
01.2019

BSc - Biotechnology

University of Pretoria
01.2017

Grade 12 -

H.L Setlalentoa Secondary School
12-2013

Skills

Molecular Techniques: PCR, qPCR, RT-PCR, sequencing, nucleic acid extraction, serology

Certification

HPCSA Registered Medical Scientist (2025)

References

Available upon request

Affiliations

Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) – Medical Biological Science, Virology

Conference Presentation

  • Tshwane District Health Research Conference (2024) – Poster Presentation
  • Virology Africa Conference (2024) – Poster Presentation
  • SMU Research Days (2022, 2023) – Oral & Poster Presentations (3rd place award in 2023)

Timeline

Intern Medical Scientist

Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, National Health Laboratory Service
08.2023 - 07.2025

Research Intern

Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, HWSETA
05.2022 - 05.2023

Junior Research Assistant

University of Pretoria, Centre for Viral Zoonoses
09.2020 - 10.2021

MSc Medicine (Medical Virology) -

Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University

BSc (Hons) Medical Sciences (Virology) - Virology

Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University

BSc - Biotechnology

University of Pretoria

Grade 12 -

H.L Setlalentoa Secondary School
Bontle Jessica Sibiya