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
Proficient in ICP-OES, NMR, FT-IR, UV-vis spec, HPLC and GCMS
Skilled in Origin, ChemDraw, Minitab, X’Pert Highscore plus, and MATLAB software
Proficient in multivariate data analysis and statistical analysis
Proficient in sample preparation, microwave digestion, and solid-phase extraction
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Strong organizational and time management skills
Ability to analyze problems and develop creative solutions
Equipment testing and calibration
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