Research Associate (Molecular Biology and Genomics)

• Mar 2021 - Present

Duties/Responsibilities:- Conduct whole genome sequencing of SARS-CoV-2, Lassa virus, HBV, ASF, HIV, and other infectious pathogens using Illumina and Nanopore sequencing platforms to obtain genomes of interest for epidemiology, research, surveillance, and other downstream analysis.- Trained over 50 scientists across Africa on using genomic tools for SARS-CoV-2 research and bioinformatics analysis.- Efficiently conduct molecular and biochemical studies and experiments in genetic expression, gene manipulation, and recombinant DNA technology to develop new or alternative product production methods.- Serve as the laboratory equipment installation and maintenance manager to ensure that the facilities and machinery run at their maximum.- Worked on deploying the LIMS platform to truncate wastes and redundancy of laboratory reagents; accurately documented and implemented laboratory protocols, promptly reporting results and quality control/ assurance, method development, and refinement.- Liaise with the laboratory manager, postdocs, and other scientists on priorities, methods, and timelines.

Volunteer

• Feb 2019 - Present

I volunteer to help young leaders reshape their minds, become more conscious of the leaders within them and reshape them to start making positive contributions in their communities.I am currently a member of various sub teams were I exert my duties appropriately. Such sub teams includes:- Public Relations- Marketing- Fame Club- Social Media teamOver the last year working with the organization, I have been awarded:- Fame Volunteer of the Month (May, 2019)- Volunteer Facilitator of the Year (2019)- Most handsome Volunteer of the Year (2019)

Team Lead Scientist (Kano state Lab)

• Jul 2020 - Mar 2021

The 54gene COVID-19 Response Team was set up to increase COVID-19 testing capacity across the Nigerian states. As the team lead 54gene mobile laboratory in Kano state, I was responsible for:• Organizing regular team meetings to drive progress, track and mitigate issues and review action items.• Researching new methods to optimize molecular assays and provide hands-on support, training and guidance to new molecular scientists to ensure adequate functionality according to appropriate scientific standards.• Improving quality management, writing/updating SOPs, protocols and reports for routine procedures and assays.• Preparing workflow for laboratory activities to enable improved turnaround time.• Maintaining accurate laboratory records manually and/or on the LIMS.• Ensuring that every result/procedure has undergone quality control and serving as the laboratory safety officer.• Ensuring important/trending spreadsheets are completed in a timely manner in accordance with the relevant SOPs.

Molecular Scientist

• Apr 2020 - Mar 2021

54gene is the world’s first and largest pan African biobank, committed to building genetic data sets that make landmark discoveries a reality. Its mission is to unlock and improve the knowledge of the African genomics and entire landscape of healthcare, globally.DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES• Setting up and organization of the BSL2+ mobile laboratory for COVID-19 molecular testing in Kano state.• Perform sample analysis, RNA extraction and RT qPCR amplification from nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal samples using manual and automated systems according to the SOP to ensure proper molecular testing.• Participate in regular training and meetings to update skills and knowledge.• Record data, information and maintain laboratory inventory in a clean and concise format.• Adhere to and follow laboratory established procedures for collecting, processing, analyzing, storing samples and reporting results.• Work in a team based, cross-functional environment to complete laboratory tasks required by shift schedule.• Serve as the laboratory installation and maintenance officer to actively maintain a tidy and safe work environment.• Perform all tasks in a manner consistent with good laboratory practices, safety policies, quality systems and requirements.• Routinely collect nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal swabs from laboratory personnel for testing.

Social Media Strategist

• Feb 2018 - Jan 2021

Student Research Assistant

• Jul 2018 - Dec 2020

As a postgraduate student/research assistant, I: • Worked with research experts on various clinical infectious disease using a BSL-2 facility and maintain accurate laboratory records.• Performed routine laboratory procedures involving nucleic acid extraction from pathogenic samples, PCR, RT-PCR and gel electrophoresis.• Carried out serological assays for patients to detect viral antigens and antibodies present in blood samples.• Used molecular techniques for viral load quantification.• Conducted haematological assessment of HIV patient blood samples and Routine total lymphocytes count and viral load of HIV patients using the Cyflow machine.• Grew viruses using cell culture techniques.• Primer design

Masters Candidate

• Mar 2018 - Dec 2020

Biology Instructor

• Jun 2016 - May 2017

I tutored secondary school students on biology focusing teaching on the study of living things, including cells and their structures and functions, anatomy, and biology in the environment, including biological processes such as photosynthesis. Carried out practical classes to elaborate to aid their better understanding.Achievements and responsibilities:• Responsible for educating senior secondary school students on Biology.• Evaluated and graded students class work, laboratory work, assignments and papers.• Prepared course materials such as syllabi to broaden students’ knowledge on Biology.• Compiled, administered and graded examinations.• Maintained student attendance records, grades and other required records.• Maintained regularly scheduled office hours in order to advise students on academic and on career issues. Responded to students and mentor inquiries.• Communicated effectively with students and staff.• Organised quiz competitions between students in various classes to test their knowledge and evaluate understanding of the subject matter.

Assistant Medical Laboratory Scientist

• Jan 2016 - Jun 2016

Achievements and responsibilities:• Performed a variety of both routine and complex clinical laboratory tests on specimens submitted to the laboratory in accordance with established standards and procedures.• Maintained laboratory equipment and instruments. Ensure quality control, instrument maintenance and troubleshooting.• Performed laboratory analysis, evaluate results and report results promptly and accurately.• Complied with good laboratory practice and regulatory requirements.• Registered patients and perform phlebotomy activities by collecting their blood samples, urine, swaps and skin snips for analysis.• Engaged in weekly laboratory trainings.• Prepared the laboratory for routine inspection from regulatory institutions.• Maintained a safe environment within the lab, following all policies and procedures for safety, hazardous materials, security and emergency preparedness.