Nonnie Motaung

BSc Biochemistry and Microbiology graduate with extensive university-based practical training in microbiological analysis, food and water microbiology, environmental sampling, molecular biology and laboratory safety, combined with 10+ years of professional experience in science education. Practical laboratory exposure includes aseptic technique, culture media preparation, serial dilution, plating, Gram staining, microscopy, bacterial identification, microbial counts, biochemical testing, spectrophotometry, PCR, ELISA and DNA profiling. Experienced in food microbiology through cheese-making, sterilisation, culture growth, contamination investigation, microorganism identification and result analysis.

Strong attention to detail, scientific documentation, analytical reasoning, troubleshooting, communication and training. Comfortable following structured procedures and working collaboratively to achieve objectives. Seeking to apply a strong microbiology foundation in a quality-focused laboratory environment.

Chemistry & Physics Teacher / English Intervention Teacher at Dominican Republic (2025-01 – 2026-01)

• Teach Chemistry and Physics at high-school level, applying scientific analysis, quantitative reasoning, experimental concepts and accurate interpretation of results.
• Prepare assessments, analyze performance data and maintain organized records and documentation.
• Explain technical and scientific concepts to learners with different levels of experience and educational backgrounds.
• Identify problems, troubleshoot misunderstandings and adapt approaches to improve outcomes.
• Conduct English intervention classes, strengthening technical communication and interpersonal skills.

High School Mathematics & Science Teacher at Western Cape Department of Education (2014-01 – Present)

• Taught Mathematics, Science and Technology across GET and FET phases, requiring accurate scientific reasoning, structured planning and interpretation of complex concepts.
• Designed and delivered practical and theory-based science activities and maintained accurate assessment and learner records.
• Developed strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills by identifying learning gaps and adapting approaches to different levels of understanding.
• Coordinated MOT, a school youth development programme, demonstrating organization, teamwork, communication and programme coordination.
• Collaborated with colleagues and supported learners with varied levels of education and experience.

Laboratory & Scientific Practical Experience at University of Cape Town (2008-01 – 2012-12)

• Performed microbiology practicals using aseptic technique, culture media preparation, serial dilutions, plating, Gram staining, microscopy and bacterial identification.
• Performed microbial counts and biochemical tests and analyzed and interpreted microbiological results.
• Completed food and water microbiology sampling and analysis practicals, including controlled sampling and evaluation of microbiological results.
• Completed a cheese-making practical involving sterilization, culture growth, analysis of contaminated experiments, microorganism identification and evaluation of improvement techniques.
• Applied PCR, ELISA, spectrophotometry, DNA profiling and bioinformatics techniques during university experiments and projects.
• Received practical exposure to chromatography equipment handling and laboratory safety procedures.
• Maintained accurate scientific observations, experimental records and reports as part of university laboratory projects.

Additional Scientific Exposure at Various

• Visited SAB, Newlands, as part of university coursework to observe the beer-making process and completed a report/assessment demonstrating understanding of the process.
• Visited iThemba LABS on multiple occasions as a teacher during educational excursions, supporting learner exposure to scientific research facilities.

Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Biochemistry and Microbiology – University of Cape Town (2008-01 – 2012-12)

Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGDE) in Education – University of Cape Town (2013-01 – 2013-12)