Theolyn Chellan

A meticulous and applied science graduate with an Honour's Degree in Biotechnology and two years of intensive hands-on research experience in microbiology. Possesses a strong command of microbiological techniques, methodology and analysis, with proven success in planning and executing experimental protocols from conception to completion. Adept at preparing detailed technical reports and research papers, underscored by winning the Top Presenter Award at the South African Society for Microbiology KZN 2022 Convention.

Eager to apply in-depth knowledge of laboratory testing and strong problem-solving skills to contribute to the high standards of Ampath's Durban Gen Lab.

Postgraduate Researcher at Durban University of Technology (2022-01 – 2022-12)

Conducted independent honours research project on antimicrobial resistance with focus on anti-quorum sensing compounds against Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

• Designed and executed an independent honours research project on antimicrobial resistance, focusing on anti-quorum sensing compounds against Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
• Conducted microbiological assays including MIC, MBC, quorum sensing inhibition and biofilm analysis using Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy (CLSM).
• Performed sample preparation, phytochemical extraction and compound profiling using LC-MS.
• Applied molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulations and Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations to validate protein–ligand interactions and predict compound reactivity.
• Evaluated pharmacokinetic and ADME properties of candidate compounds using in silico tools.
• Ensured adherence to SOPs, Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), contamination control measures and laboratory safety protocols.
• Prepared and presented technical reports, dissertation, and scientific presentations, receiving recognition as Top Presenter at the SASM KZN Convention.
• Collaborated with external facilities (Stellenbosch CAF, UKZN MMU) and mentored junior researchers in microbiological and computational techniques.

Undergraduate Researcher at Durban University of Technology (2021-01 – 2021-12)

Collaborated on research project evaluating medicinal plants for antibacterial activity using ethnopharmacological and molecular docking approaches.

• Collaborated on a research project evaluating medicinal plants for antibacterial activity using ethnopharmacological and molecular docking approaches.
• Conducted sample preparation, phytochemical extraction and compound screening for antimicrobial properties.
• Performed microbiological assays including bacterial growth inhibition, synergistic testing and culture characterization.
• Integrated wet-lab results with molecular docking simulations to provide a holistic analysis of compound–target interactions and therefore compound efficacy.
• Contributed to the technical writing of a research dissertation, whose presentation was awarded a distinction.

Bachelor of Applied Science (Honours) in Biotechnology – Durban University of Technology (2022 – 2022)

Bachelor of Applied Science in Biotechnology – Durban University of Technology (2019 – 2021)

National Senior Certificate – Merebank Secondary School (2018 – 2018)