Nthabeleng Leisa

Biotechnology graduate with a BSc Honours in Biotechnology and a BSc in Microbiology and Biochemistry, with hands-on experience in research, microbiological analysis and laboratory quality systems. Experienced in experimental design, microbial isolation and culturing, antimicrobial assays, molecular biology techniques, sample preparation, data analysis and scientific reporting. Honours research focused on investigating endophytic fungi as potential food preservatives, including microbial culturing, antimicrobial assays, DNA extraction, PCR, sequencing and microbial identification.

Currently experienced in a commercial ISO/SANS 17025- accredited laboratory environment, with strong attention to experimental accuracy, SOP compliance, quality control, documentation and contamination control. Interested in applying biotechnology and experimental research skills to food biotechnology, fermentation, product development and life-science R&D.

Microbiology Laboratory Analyst - Integral Laboratories (Pty) Ltd

(2025-08 - 2026-08)

Performed microbiological analysis of drinking water, wastewater and environmental samples in an ISO/SANS 17025 accredited laboratory, while maintaining compliance with laboratory quality systems and regulatory standards.

• Performed scientific analysis of water and environmental samples using standard microbiological methods, including membrane filtration, microbial culturing, enumeration and organism identification.
• Analysed and interpreted microbiological results before reporting through LIMS.
• Maintained accurate laboratory records in accordance with ISO/SANS 17025 requirements
• Applied good laboratory practice (GLP) and laboratory SOPs throughout sample processing.
• Performed quality control testing, calibration checks and equipment verification.
• Investigated laboratory non-conformances and implementing CAPA.
• Participated in laboratory proficiency testing, consistently achieving acceptable performance with no recorded outliers.
• Conducted specialised testing for somatic coliphages used in water quality
• Trained newly appointed laboratory analysts on microbiological techniques, SOPs, and LIMS procedures.
• Supported continuous improvement initiatives to improve laboratory quality and workflow efficiency.

Research Assistant - Neural Sense

(2025-01 - 2025-06)

• Assisted with scientific research activities
• Supported experimental design and data collection
• Analysed research data
• Assisted in preparing technical reports and documentation

Quality Control & Microbiology Trainee - UVU BIO

(2024-11 - 2024-12)

• Performed microbiological quality control testing
• Prepared microbiological media and laboratory reagents
• Assisted with ISO/SANS 17025 laboratory documentation
• Conducted equipment verification and maintenance
• Maintained laboratory safety and biosafety standards

BSc (Honours) - Biotechnology - University of the Western Cape (2024)

Bachelor of Science - Microbiology & Biochemistry - University of Fort Hare (2023)