Luyanda Centani

Dynamic and versatile Analytical Chemist and Laboratory Technician with a Master of Science in Organic Chemistry and extensive experience across academic and industrial laboratories. Skilled in advanced analytical instrumentation, laboratory management, and safety compliance. Proven ability to train staff and students, optimize laboratory operations, and support teaching and research excellence. Appointable as Hazardous Chemical Substance Controller (HCSC) with a clear security screening record.

Laboratory Technician and manager, Academic Supporter – Education Sector at Herschel Association (2022-09 – Present)

• Managed and maintained laboratory equipment and supplies, ensuring smooth daily operations.
• Set up and coordinated practical sessions for students, including exam practicals and regular lab activities.
• Trained and guided teachers and students on laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and experiment execution.
• Monitored compliance with safety standards and implemented improvements to minimize risks.
• Assisted in planning and organizing educational programs, workshops, and lab demonstrations.
• Acted as a point of contact for lab-related queries, ensuring effective communication between staff, students, and administration.

Quality Control / Quality Assurance Laboratory Technician at Freddy Hirsch (2019-12 – 2022-06)

• Conducted quality control and assurance testing on raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products to ensure compliance with company and regulatory standards.
• Managed laboratory operations, including sample preparation, equipment calibration, and maintenance.
• Monitored and documented test results, prepared reports, and assisted in resolving quality issues.
• Implemented SOPs and ensured adherence to laboratory safety and hygiene protocols.
• Trained and supported junior lab staff in testing techniques, data recording, and safety procedures.
• Collaborated with production and management teams to maintain consistent product quality and support continuous improvement initiatives.

Research and development (Masters and honours) at University of Cape Town (2016 – 2018)

• Conducted independent research in organic and medicinal chemistry, including the synthesis, purification, and characterization of novel organic compounds.
• Developed and optimized silica gel column chromatography methods by selecting and refining solvent systems to achieve efficient purification of synthesized compounds.
• Optimized chromatographic separations by adjusting mobile phase compositions and solvent polarity to improve compound resolution and purification efficiency.
• Monitored purification processes using Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) and interpreted chromatographic results to guide fraction collection.
• Characterized synthesized compounds using advanced analytical instrumentation, including NMR (¹H and ¹³C), FTIR, UV-Visible Spectroscopy, HPLC, and GC-MS.
• Performed analytical data interpretation and verified compound identity, purity, and structural integrity.
• Recorded experimental procedures, observations, and analytical results in detailed laboratory notebooks.
• Conducted literature reviews and used scientific publications to support experimental design and problem-solving.
• Presented research findings through written reports, scientific presentations, and dissertation work.

Laboratory Technical Support, Practical Demonstrator & Tutor at University of Cape Town (2016 – 2018)

• Provided technical support in undergraduate chemistry laboratories, ensuring smooth operation of experiments.
• Set up and demonstrated practical experiments, guiding students through procedures and reinforcing theoretical concepts.
• Tutored undergraduate students in chemistry and mathematics, offering academic support and problem-solving guidance.
• Monitored laboratory sessions to ensure compliance with safety protocols.
• Assisted lecturers in preparing practical assessments, marking assignments, and supporting curriculum delivery.
• Mentored students to build confidence in laboratory techniques and scientific problem-solving.

Master of Science (MSc) in Organic Chemistry – University of Cape Town (2019)

Bachelor of Science (BSc Honours) in Chemistry – University of Cape Town (2016)

Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Chemistry & Mathematics – University of Cape Town (2014)