Noluthando Masango
Durban
Summary
At the Department of Agriculture, I spearheaded microbial quality control for essential oils, leveraging aseptic techniques and PCR for pathogen diagnostics. My innovative strategies enhanced product safety, evidenced by developing SOPs and leading method validation, showcasing my analytical acumen and commitment to excellence in microbiological testing.
Overview
2
2
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Intern Microbiologist (Contract)
Department of Agriculture
PMB
09.2022 - 08.2024
- Executed microbial tests and quality control measures for essential oils finished products, raw materials, in-process samples, and water samples.
- Conducted quality testing of soil and water samples through microbiological tests.
- Performed sterility tests on raw materials using membrane filtration.
- Ensured validated workflows within aseptic areas and clean room environments.
- Conducted media growth promotion tests and consumables quality testing.
- Developed a study utilizing dsRNA molecular methods including qPCR, PCR, and Next Generation Sequencing for pathogen identification and diagnostics.
- Designed microbial control strategies in the production and release of essential oils in the prevention of contamination.
- Developed and implemented methodologies for microbiological laboratory tests with reference to environmental samples, quality testing, and essential oils production, and formulated SOPs.
- Interpreted and analyzed experimental results of bioprocess products.
- Implemented and maintained quality control and assurance procedures in sample analyses.
- Identified microorganisms from water and finished products through Gram staining, biochemical tests, and the Biolog Identification System.
- Operated bioprocess equipment and laboratory analyzers according to SOPs.
- Participated in Out of Specification Investigations, Deviations, and Corrective and Preventive Actions.
- Maintained accurate records and documentation of all laboratory tests, results, reports, and calibrations.
Education
BSc - Life Sciences (Genetics and Microbiology)
University of Kwa-Zulu Natal
Durban, Westville05-2021
National Senior Certificate - Mathematics and Science
Umthoqotho High School
Pietermaritzburg, South Africa11-2015
Skills
- Aseptic techniques
- Computer literacy
- Calibrations and verifications of laboratory instruments
- Current Good Manufacturing Practice
- ISO 17025 compliance
- Quality control and assurance
- Out of Specification Investigations, Corrective Action, and Preventive Action
- Environmental monitoring
- Good Laboratory Practice
- Operating laboratory analyzers and instruments
- Laboratory Information Management System
- Microbial identification
- Molecular biology techniques
- Method validation
- SOP development
- Sampling
- Sterility testing
- Validation activities
References
- Dr Nontokozo Mkhonza, Supervisor, Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, 079 971 1661
- Nomusa Sithole, Co supervisor, Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, 079 938 0451
Languages
Zulu
First Language
English
Advanced (C1)
C1
Certification
- ISO 17025
- Good Laboratory Practice
Timeline
Intern Microbiologist (Contract)
Department of Agriculture
09.2022 - 08.2024
BSc - Life Sciences (Genetics and Microbiology)
University of Kwa-Zulu Natal
National Senior Certificate - Mathematics and Science
Umthoqotho High School
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