MATLAB
Kgomotso Mabena
PhD Candidate
Johannesburg
Summary
Highly motivated and detail-oriented analytical chemist with a strong research background in organometallic chemistry and analytical chemistry. Proven expertise in developing and validating analytical methods using various techniques, including ICP-OES, HPLC, and GCMS. Excellent communication and teamwork skills, with a strong passion for advancing knowledge and innovation in analytical chemistry.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
10
10
years of post-secondary education
3
3
Certifications
1
1
Language
Work History
Laboratory Assistant
University of South Africa (UNISA)
Johannesburg
01.2024 - Current
- Prepare various chemical solutions in bulk volumes for undergraduate practicals
- Prepare and organize glassware for underground practicals
- Manage the laboratory
- Run instruments such as ICP-OES and UV-visible for undergraduate students
- Maintained documentation on tests performed in the lab.
- Managed inventory levels effectively by tracking supply usage and placing orders for required materials before depletion.
- Prepared reagents, media, and solutions to use for laboratory testing and analysis.
- Inspected laboratory equipment to maintain good working condition for optimal results.
- Prepared reagents, media and solutions to use for laboratory testing and analysis.
- Performed testing and quality control using approved laboratory procedures and instrumentation.
- Operated and performed preventative maintenance on laboratory equipment and instruments.
Student Researcher
University of South Africa
Johannesburg
01.2022 - Current
- Performed research into study topics to increase knowledge and to provide valuable contributions.
- Developed critical thinking skills through continuous problem-solving activities related to hypothesis testing or experiment design challenges faced during research projects.
- Developed strong analytical skills through hands-on experience with various statistical software tools and platforms.
- Collaborated with fellow researchers, fostering a productive team environment that accelerated project completion.
- Designed and conducted experiments, analyzed data, and presented findings at conferences and seminars
- Co-authored publication in peer-reviewed journals
Laboratory Demonstrator and Marker
University of South Africa (UNISA)
Johannesburg
02.2021 - Current
- Edited assignments, solved problems, and identified solutions with students
- Assisted with various laboratory preparations prior to students' practicals
- Assisted and instructed students on relevant laboratory strategies during the students' practicals
- Marking students' assignments, exam scripts, laboratory reports, and marks capture
- Counting and organizing lab reports and exam papers
- Organizing and monitoring students during examinations
- Addressed student questions during lab sessions promptly and thoroughly, promoting deeper understanding while reinforcing key concepts.
Tutor, Laboratory Demonstrator, Junior Invigilator
University Of Johannesburg
Johannesburg
02.2018 - 11.2020
- Edited assignments, solved problems, and identified solutions with students
- Assisted and Instructed students on relevant laboratory strategies
- Marking students' laboratory reports and carefully capturing marks
- Counting and organizing lab reports and exam papers
- Organizing and monitoring students during examinations
- Motivated students towards learning and studying to build self-confidence and reduce fear of failure.
- Supported students with helpful study habits and exam strategies.
- Provided one-on-one tutoring sessions, tailoring instruction to meet the specific needs of each student while promoting independent learning skills.
Student Researcher
University Of Johannesburg
Johannesburg
01.2018 - 06.2020
- Performed research into study topics to increase knowledge and to provide valuable contributions.
- Developed critical thinking skills through continuous problem-solving activities related to hypothesis testing or experiment design challenges faced during research projects.
- Collaborated with fellow researchers, fostering a productive team environment that accelerated project completion.
- Maintained ethical standards throughout all research activities, upholding the integrity of scientific inquiry.
- Contributed to the development of innovative research methodologies for more accurate results.
- Conducted literature reviews to stay informed on current trends and developments in the field, bolstering research relevance.
- Prepared fact sheets, tables, and graphs to summarize research results.
- Implemented quality control measures throughout each stage of the research process to ensure the accuracy and reliability of results obtained from experiments conducted during my tenure as a student researcher.
- Managed multiple projects simultaneously while adhering to strict deadlines, showcasing strong organizational skills and time management abilities.
- Interpreted and analyzed research data to draw conclusions on outcomes.
- Developed strong analytical skills through hands-on experience with various statistical software tools and platforms.
Research Assistant (Research Experience)
University Of Johannesburg
Johannesburg
01.2017 - 12.2017
- Assisted in the development of a microwave-assisted digestion method for the determination of Fe, Mn, and Zn in wine samples using ICP-OES.
- Conducted laboratory experiments, collected and analyzed data, and presented findings to the research team
- Organized research materials, maintaining a well-ordered workspace conducive to productivity.
- Participated actively in regular meetings with fellow researchers to discuss project updates, challenges faced, and lessons learned during ongoing activities.
- Monitored project timelines, ensuring timely completion of tasks while maintaining high-quality output.
- Conducted literature reviews to support hypothesis development and identify gaps in existing knowledge.
Education
Ph.D. - Chemistry
University of South Africa
Roodepoort, Gauteng 01.2022 - Current
Master of Science - Chemistry
University Of Johannesburg
Johannesburg, Gauteng 01.2018 - 10.2020
Bachelor of Science - Honours in Chemistry
University of Johannesburg
Johannesburg, Gauteng 04.2017 - 12.2017
Bachelor of Science - Physical Chemistry with Specialization in Chemistry & Mathematics
University Of Johannesburg
Johannesburg, Gauteng 01.2013 - 12.2016
Skills
Additional Information
- The determination of Fe, Mn and Zn in wine samples using microwave assisted digestion prior to ICP-OES analysis
- Institution: University of Johannesburg
- Duration: January 2017 - November 2017 - Palladium(II) and platinum(II) based S^N^S and Se^N^Se pincer complexes as catalysts for CO2 hydrogenation and N-formylation of diethylamine to diethylformamide
- Institution: University of Johannesburg
- Duration: January 2018 - June 2020 - Selective and precise solid phase extraction based on a magnetic cellulose gold nanocomposite followed by ICP-OES analysis for monitoring of total sulfur content in liquid fuels
- Institution: University of South Africa
- Duration: February 2023 - June 2024 - Vortex-assisted dispersive magnetic solid phase microextraction of organosulfur compounds in liquid fuels using a magnetic cellulose gold nanocomposite followed by HPLC analysis
- Institution: University of South Africa
- Duration: In progress - Green synthesis of gold coated magnetic graphene quantum dots from cellulose nanocrystals for application in adsorptive preconcentration and removal of polycyclic aromatic sulfur compounds in liquid fuels followed by HR-GC-MS analysis
- Institution: University of South Africa
- Duration: In progress
Publications and Presentations
Publications
- Journal of CO2 Utilization: Palladium(II) and platinum(II) based S^N^S and Se^N^Se pincer complexes as catalysts for CO2 hydrogenation and N-formylation of diethylamine to diethylformamide
- RSC Advances: Selective and precise solid phase extraction based on a magnetic cellulose gold nanocomposite followed by ICP-OES analysis for monitoring of total sulfur content in liquid fuels
Presentations
- Catalysis Society of South Africa (CATSA) conference, November 2019, Langebaan Cape Town, South Africa
- Analitika 2024, Champagne Sports Resort, Central Drakensberg, South Africa
- 11th International Conference on Appropriate Technology, Glenburn Lodge & Spa Conference Centre, Johannesburg, South Africa
Affiliations
Golden Key International Honour Society
References
References are available upon request.
Certification
Introduction to HTML5, 06/01/20, Present
Software
ChemDraw
Minitab
Origin
X’Pert Highscore plus
Microsoft Word
Microsoft Excel
Microsoft PowerPoint
Timeline
Laboratory Assistant
University of South Africa (UNISA)
01.2024 - Current
Student Researcher
University of South Africa
01.2022 - Current
Ph.D. - Chemistry
University of South Africa
01.2022 - Current
Laboratory Demonstrator and Marker
University of South Africa (UNISA)
02.2021 - Current
Tutor, Laboratory Demonstrator, Junior Invigilator
University Of Johannesburg
02.2018 - 11.2020
Student Researcher
University Of Johannesburg
01.2018 - 06.2020
Master of Science - Chemistry
University Of Johannesburg
01.2018 - 10.2020
Bachelor of Science - Honours in Chemistry
University of Johannesburg
04.2017 - 12.2017
Research Assistant (Research Experience)
University Of Johannesburg
01.2017 - 12.2017
Bachelor of Science - Physical Chemistry with Specialization in Chemistry & Mathematics
University Of Johannesburg
01.2013 - 12.2016
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