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