Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Languages
Software
Accomplishments
Interests
References
Timeline
Generic
Sibusiso Notwala

Sibusiso Notwala

Master of Science (MSc) Candidate
Gqeberha

Summary

I am a dedicated and ambitious biomedical nanoscience researcher with a strong passion for formulation science and its pivotal role in advancing biomedical applications. My experience spans cutting-edge laboratory research, data analysis, and project management, complemented by exposure to the workplace environment. Through my academic journey, I have cultivated essential skills in research design, scientific writing, and problem-solving, alongside hands-on technical proficiency in nanotechnology, biobanking, and biomedical instrumentation.

I am adept at maintaining professional relationships and collaborating effectively with diverse teams across different sectors. My role as a lab demonstrator has further developed my communication and leadership abilities, while my experience as a Systems Coordinator in an online pharmacy network has sharpened my organizational and client relations skills. With a solid foundation in digital tools and project management acquired through Capaciti's upskilling program, I am equipped to contribute to an innovative and dynamic organization.

Proven in my ability to successfully manage multiple academic and professional projects simultaneously, I bring a strong work ethic, adaptability, and a commitment to excellence in every task. I am eager to apply my knowledge and skills in a forward-thinking establishment, leveraging my unique blend of technical expertise and corporate insight to support the company's goals and drive impactful outcomes.

Overview

6
6
years of professional experience
23
23
years of post-secondary education

Work History

Lab Demonstrator

Nelson Mandela University
05.2023 - 01.2024

Laboratory Management

  • Coordinated and managed undergraduate practical sessions, ensuring proper handling and use of laboratory equipment, adherence to safety protocols, and accurate data collection.

Human Physiology Experimentation

  • Assisted students with practical experiments related to cardiovascular, respiratory, and neuromuscular physiology, contributing to deep understanding of physiological mechanisms.

Pharmacological Assays

  • Experience in guiding students through basic pharmacological assays, such as dose-response experiments, drug metabolism studies, and enzyme inhibition assays.

Data Analysis and Interpretation

  • Trained students in analysis and interpretation of experimental data, including statistical analysis and presentation of results using software such as Excel and GraphPad Prism.

Biochemical and Molecular Techniques

  • Provided guidance on common biochemical assays (e.g., ELISA, spectrophotometry) and molecular techniques (e.g., PCR, gel electrophoresis) to assess physiological parameters.

Safety and Compliance

  • Enforced strict compliance with health and safety regulations in the lab, ensuring a safe learning environment for students

Leadership and Supervision

  • Supervised and mentored undergraduate students, fostering an environment of learning, teamwork, and problem-solving during lab sessions.

Communication

  • Conveyed complex physiological concepts and laboratory techniques clearly and effectively, both in written and verbal form, to students with varying levels of understanding.

Team Collaboration

  • Collaborated with academic staff and fellow demonstrators to ensure seamless execution of practical sessions and continuous improvement of lab procedures.

Adaptability

  • Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot equipment issues and adjust experimental protocols in real-time to accommodate various challenges in the lab.

Time Management

  • Efficiently managed time-sensitive tasks, including preparation of lab materials and ensuring practical sessions ran on schedule while allowing ample time for student inquiries and feedback.

Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking

  • Encouraged students to think critically about physiological phenomena and experiment outcomes, guiding them through challenges and promoting independent thinking.

Systems Coordinator

Busymed
10.2021 - 04.2022

Systems Coordination and Integration

  • Proficient in managing and coordinating integration of digital platforms and technologies within Busymed's online pharmacy network. Ensured seamless functionality of internal systems and optimized workflow efficiency.

Client Relationship Management

  • Acted as liaison between clients (pharmacies, healthcare providers) and technical teams, addressing client inquiries, resolving system-related issues, and ensuring client satisfaction with platform services.

Technical Support and Troubleshooting

  • Provided first-level technical support to clients, diagnosing and resolving system errors, guiding clients through technical challenges, and escalating complex issues to appropriate departments.

Data Management and Reporting

  • Managed system data, including order processing and client information, ensuring accuracy and confidentiality. Generated analytical reports to provide insights on system performance and client engagement metrics.

Process Improvement and Efficiency Optimization

  • Identified and implemented improvements in system operations to enhance user experience, streamline processes, and reduce response times, increasing overall productivity and client satisfaction.

Stakeholder Communication and Training

  • Facilitated communication between internal teams (development, customer service) and external stakeholders (pharmacies, healthcare providers). Provided training and onboarding sessions to clients on using the Busymed front-end app.

Project Coordination

  • Coordinated system updates, new feature rollouts, and software enhancements, ensuring that clients were informed and supported throughout transitions. Monitored post-deployment performance to ensure stability and client usability.

Customer-Centric Problem Solving

  • Leveraged strong problem-solving skills to address client-specific challenges, offering tailored solutions to meet pharmacy needs and improve system adoption across diverse user bases.

Digital Associate (Apprenticeship)

CapaCiti (UVU Bio)
04.2021 - 09.2021

Digital Transformation and Up-skilling

  • Gained expertise in digital tools and platforms, enhancing proficiency in essential software for data analysis, project management, and collaboration, with focus on applications in healthcare and technology sectors.

Advanced Microsoft Office Suite

  • Acquired advanced skills in Excel, Word, and PowerPoint, including data manipulation, report generation, and automation techniques using macros to streamline workflows.

Project Management Tools

  • Developed competence in project management tools such as Trello, Asana, and Microsoft Teams, facilitating efficient task tracking, collaboration, and team coordination across various projects.

Data Analytics and Visualization

  • Trained in data analysis and visualization techniques using software such as Microsoft Excel and Power BI. Capable of analyzing complex datasets and generating clear, actionable insights through dashboards and reports.

Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving

  • Strengthened analytical skills to approach complex problems methodically, using data-driven solutions to optimize business processes, particularly in customer-centric industries like pharmaceuticals and online healthcare services.

Job Critical Skills (JCS) Training

  • Completed comprehensive training on essential soft and technical skills critical for professional success, including:
  • Effective Communication : Enhanced verbal and written communication skills tailored for professional and client-facing roles.
  • Time Management : Learned to prioritize tasks and manage time efficiently in a fast-paced, dynamic work environment.
  • Adaptability : Trained to quickly adapt to new systems, technologies, and work environments, crucial for roles requiring continuous learning and change.

Student Intern (Student Internship)

Next Biosciences
06.2018 - 06.2018
  • Laboratory Techniques and Bio-banking

Gained hands-on experience with advanced laboratory techniques used in bio-banking, including sample collection, processing, cryopreservation, and storage of biological samples (e.g., cord blood, stem cells) under strict quality control standards.

  • Cellular and Molecular Biology
    Exposure to key methods in cellular biology, including cell culture and maintenance, as well as molecular techniques like PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) and DNA extraction, used in diagnostics and research.
  • Stem Cell Research and Regenerative Medicine
    Learned about stem cell research applications, including stem cell isolation, differentiation, and the potential for regenerative therapies. Observed real-life uses of stem cells in clinical applications and tissue engineering.
  • Quality Assurance and Regulatory Compliance
    Developed an understanding of the regulatory frameworks governing bio-banking and stem cell therapy, including Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and ethical guidelines for handling human biological materials.
  • Data Management in Bio-banking
    Acquired skills in managing large-scale biological datasets, ensuring accurate and secure documentation, storage, and retrieval of sample data using specialized software systems.
  • Lab Safety and Biohazard Management
    Trained in biosafety protocols for handling biological samples and hazardous materials in a laboratory environment, ensuring compliance with safety standards and procedures.
  • Interdisciplinary Collaboration
    Worked alongside researchers, laboratory technicians, and healthcare professionals, gaining insight into collaborative research processes and how interdisciplinary teams work together to drive advancements in biotechnology and healthcare.

Education

Master of Science - Nanoscience (Coursework/Research)

Nelson Mandela University
Gqeberha
04.2001 - Current

Bachelor of Science - Biochemistry, Chemistry And Microbiology

Nelson Mandela University
Gqeberha
04.2001 -

Skills

Languages

English
Bilingual or Proficient (C2)
Xhosa
Bilingual or Proficient (C2)

Software

MS Office

Python

HTML and CSS

JavaScript

GraphPad Prism

Origin Pro

Accomplishments

  • Gradstar SA Top 500 Entry (2019)
  • IYC-SOS SA Youth Leader in Indonesia Coalition Conference

Interests

Sports

Gym and Fitness

Travelling

References

  • Dr. Mpho Ngoepe at Nelson Mandela University: mpho.ngoepe@mandela.ac.za


  • Leah Issacs at Moshal Scholarship Program: leahissacs@moshalscholarship.org


  • Morgan Mokalake at SOS Children's Villages: morgan.mokalake@sos.org.za


  • Athena Migglieta at UVU Bio athena@capaciti.org.za

Timeline

Lab Demonstrator

Nelson Mandela University
05.2023 - 01.2024

Systems Coordinator

Busymed
10.2021 - 04.2022

Digital Associate (Apprenticeship)

CapaCiti (UVU Bio)
04.2021 - 09.2021

Student Intern (Student Internship)

Next Biosciences
06.2018 - 06.2018

Master of Science - Nanoscience (Coursework/Research)

Nelson Mandela University
04.2001 - Current

Bachelor of Science - Biochemistry, Chemistry And Microbiology

Nelson Mandela University
04.2001 -
Sibusiso NotwalaMaster of Science (MSc) Candidate