Dr Nhlakanipho Colin Mkhize
Principal Scientist
Benoni
Summary
Scientist with a strong professional background in leading cutting-edge research and development projects. Demonstrates a focus on team collaboration and achieving impactful results. Adaptable and reliable in dynamic environments, with key skills in analytical thinking and project management. Thrives in a supportive, constructive environment and values loyalty.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
2020
2020
years of post-secondary education
1
1
Certification
Work History
Principal Scientist
Element Six
11.2022 - Current
- Interim operational manager of surface treatment plant, leading 15 staff members
- Innovated technical solutions to underperforming single crystal diamond growth process and increased yield from 21% to 69% within 6-months
- Optimized polycrystalline diamond disc manufacturing to increase throughput by 20% per unit
Senior Scientist
Element Six
11.2019 - 10.2022
- Commissioned automated acid treatment facility to enhance operator safety and double production capacity
- Spearheaded safe acid re-use process on-site to limit company environmental impact
- Reduced fresh acid use by 8% between July 2022 and June 2023
- Increased efficiency of neutralization process in acid treatment plant, leading to better product shelf-life by up to 6 months
- Supervised in-service trainees for their P1/P2 work integrated learning module
- Prepared safe working procedures for new processes, including risk assessments
Education
DPhil (PhD) - Material Science
University of Oxford, Wadham College
MSc - Physical Organic Chemistry
Rhodes University
BSc (Hons) - Physics and Chemistry
Rhodes University
Skills
- Analytical chemistry
- Microsoft suite
- Data analysis
- Technology transfer
- Lab safety protocols
- Innovative problem-solving
- Project management experience
- Product development experience
- Safety processes and procedures
- Technical writing
Other Information
Project Management Foundations Certification (UCT, 2021), McKinsey Forward Program Delegate (2022), Six Sigma Green Belt Certification (CI Consulting, 2024), Native proficiency in English and isiZulu., Analytical chemistry, Microsoft suite, data analysis, project management, student supervision, Trains, transport systems, squash, science communication, Catholic liturgy
Affiliations
Member of the Royal Society of South Africa
Certification
Lean Six Sigma Green Belt
Timeline
Principal Scientist
Element Six
11.2022 - Current
Senior Scientist
Element Six
11.2019 - 10.2022
MSc - Physical Organic Chemistry
Rhodes University
BSc (Hons) - Physics and Chemistry
Rhodes University
DPhil (PhD) - Material Science
University of Oxford, Wadham College
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