Richard Ssekyanzi
Mukono
Summary
A molecular biologist with proficient and communicative skills in conducting laboratory and field experiments while informing new hires on research methods and data collection procedures. Hardworking and driven with superior organizational and analytical skills combined with unparalleled dedication to research excellence. I am skilled in the conceptualization, design, and implementation of laboratory research projects in molecular and cellular microbiology and genetics.
I am a determined and well-rounded individual with more than eight years of working in scientific roles in the pharmaceutical and food industries and biomedical research organisations. I am a focused leader with dynamic research and analytical skills, highly motivated with excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Visiting scientist
Quadram Institute Biosciences
01.2022 - 09.2022
- Developed and optimized a Real-time PCR (qPCR) assay that detects 10 copies of Listeria monocytogenes (Lm) genome in DNA samples
- Successfully characterized phenotypic and genotypic characteristics of 18 isolates of Lm through percentage haemolysis of red blood cells, biofilms formation, microscopy, and bioinformatics analysis.
- Developed competence in bacteria cell culture, DNA extraction, DNA
- Quantification, PCR, qPCR reactions and amplification curves, gel electrophoresis, Cloning and transformations
- Developed competent in the use of Higher pathogen laboratory and the use of research and analytical biomedical equipment such as incubators, spectrophotometer, Thermal cyclers, centrifuges, pipettes, and biosafety cabinets.
- Competent in research data analysis using bioinformatics tools, report writing and presentations.
- Evaluated test results for completeness and accuracy, submitting results to the principle investigator for review and approvals.
- Reviewed, evaluated and validated a laboratory protocol for determining percentage hemolysis of red blood cells by pathogenic organisms.
- Learned new molecular laboratory techniques and applied expertise in carrying out enhanced experiments under supervision of senior lab members.
Process technologist
Coca Cola Beverages Africa
02.2019 - 09.2021
- Managed and supervised productivity operations for yield maximisation and optimisation of the new organisation’s supply chain system
- Spearheaded lean manufacturing operations for process optimisation
- Provided sustainability management leadership through auditing and quality management
- Implemented Value capture that improves business model and product quality reviews
- Led capability management through performance development and capability acquisition process (CAP) reviews
- Calibrated machines to maintain required productivity levels and adherence to quality standards.
- Internal auditor with certifications for ISO 9001:2015, FSSC V5 (ISO:22000) and member of the HACCP committee.
- Reviewed production schedules and streamlined processes.
- Read worker logs, product processing sheets or specification sheets to verify records adhered to quality assurance specifications.
- Prepared reports and technical documentation of day-to-day production processes.
- Inspected finished products for quality and adherence to customer specifications.
Microbiologist
Abacus Parenteral Drugs Limited
12.2017 - 01.2019
- Performed sampling and microbiological analysis of raw materials and drugs, signed off quality reports, and issued certificates of analysis for conforming products
- Facilities compliance monitoring for GMP, air and product quality assurance
- Developed and reviewed microbiology SOPs and trained new staff
- Media preparation for microbiology analysis and process simulation/validation
- Cleanroom monitoring and validation
- Document management and control
Quality Assurance
Coca Cola Beverages Africa
10.2014 - 11.2017
- Supervised timely Microbiological analysis of raw materials and finished products
- Member of the food safety management and review
- Implemented the occupational safety and health program in the organization
- Performed equipment calibration and validation
- Laboratory inventory management on reagents, test kits, solutions, and media
- Risk management, chemical control, and training
- Adhered to standardized software quality assurance best practices, policies and processes.
- Developed reports and materials for key stakeholders related to quality goals, progress and challenges.
- Mentored and coached team members on QA topics and strategies.
Education
Master of Science - Molecular Medicine
University of East Anglia
Norwich, United Kingdom12.2022
Bachelor of Science - Biological Sciences
Kyambogo University
Kampala, Uganda01.2015
Skills
- Developing protocols for laboratory investigations, and conducting presentations
- DNA Sequencing
- Bacterial cell culture, media preparation and growth curves analysis, PCR, qPCR, and gel electrophoresis
- Assay Development
- Lab Experiments and Research
- Critical Thinking
- Handling of higher pathogen laboratory, biohazard, and chemical handling
- DNA extraction, quantification, short-read, and long-read sequencing, Plasmid cloning, transformation, ligation, and screening
- Bioinformatics analysis of genomic DNA sequence data
- Biofilms research, haemolysis, and microscopic examination of pathogenic microorganisms
Accomplishments
- I won the Chevening scholarship award under the Foreign commonwealth and development office (FCDO) of the United Kingdom. The program sponsors global leaders in their fields of expertise to pursue a masters program in a chosen field in the United Kingdom. I was successfully chosen in the pool of over 65000 global applicants and represented the successful 2% global leaders and influencers.
- Uganda Czech development trust, studentship award winner for the undergraduate studies.
- I developed and optimised a molecular qPCR protocol for detecting Lm in genomic DNA isolated from the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) of healthy individuals for 3 ongoing studies at the Quadram institute to determine the prevalence of Lm in the GIT of healthy individuals which has not been done previously.
- Developed a protocol that improved turnover and reduced total Cleaning in Place (CIP) time by 1.5 hours and optimised a protocol for effective juice monitoring. Won the HACCP team member of the year award 2020.
Languages
English
Advanced
C1
Certification
- I am a certified Integrated management system internal auditor for ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015, and FSSC V5 (ISO: 22000) from SGS and Bureau Veritas.
- Certified for ISO 31000:2018 certification for Risk management awareness training from SGS
- Certified first aider training level 3 with International Air Ambulance (IAA).
- Fire safety management.
Hobbies
My hobbies are networking and I enjoy socializing with family and friends. I also have a strong affection for sports specifically football and volleyball. I have a strong interest in biomedical research and nutrition to understand diseases at the molecular level.
Referees
Dr. Ana Victoria Gutierrez (Academic)
Molecular Research Scientist (Supervisor)
Quadram Institute Biosciences,
Norwich Research Park, UK
Tel: +447778331797
Email; ana-victoria.gutierrez@quadram.ac.uk
Mr. Denis Byamukama (Professional)
Surveillance Executive (Supervisor)
Uganda National Bureau of Standards
Tel: +256788973218
Email: denis.byamukama@unbs.go.ug
Timeline
Visiting scientist
Quadram Institute Biosciences
01.2022 - 09.2022
Process technologist
Coca Cola Beverages Africa
02.2019 - 09.2021
Microbiologist
Abacus Parenteral Drugs Limited
12.2017 - 01.2019
Quality Assurance
Coca Cola Beverages Africa
10.2014 - 11.2017
Master of Science - Molecular Medicine
University of East Anglia
Bachelor of Science - Biological Sciences
Kyambogo University
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