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Olawumi Otutu

Research Assistant - Malaria Molecular Biology and Genomics

Lagos, Lagos

ABOUT

My research centers on the molecular biology of malaria parasites, with a strong focus on understanding the genetic basis of antimalarial resistance. I am also interested in investigating HRP2/3 genes deletion and polymorphisms that compromise the diagnostic accuracy of rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs), a crucial tool for malaria detection in endemic regions. My overall research goal is to elucidate the genetic basics for enhancing diagnostic reliability and support the development of more effective surveillance and treatment strategies. In addition, I am broadly interested in malaria genomics, bioinformatics, and molecular epidemiology. My research seeks to track the evolution of "diagnostic-resistant" strains of Plasmodium falciparum, employing advanced genomic and data analysis techniques. This work contributes to understanding how genetic variations impact resistance to antimalarial drugs and failure of diagnostic tools. This ultimately informs public health initiatives aimed at controlling and eradicating malaria on a global scale.

SKILLS

Microsoft ExcelStatistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS)Graphpad PrismJamoviPython programming for data analysisMEGAGeneiousIGVUbuntu Command Line Programming
Real-time PCROxford Nanopore SequencingMolecular DiagnosticsQuality Control and AssuranceLaboratory Equipment Operation and MaintenanceBiobank Management
Genomic AnalysisBioinformaticsComputational BiologyData Analytics and ScienceDatabase ManagementMolecular EpidemiologyMalaria Genomics

EXPERIENCE

Research Assistant

2021 - Present

Humboldt Research Hub Center for Emerging and Re-Emerging Infectious Diseases LAUTECH • Ogbomoso

Conducting advanced research on malaria parasites with focus on molecular biology, genomics, and antimalarial resistance at a leading infectious disease research center. • Developed and implemented real-time PCR protocols for detecting HRP2/3 gene deletions in RDT-negative samples, significantly enhancing diagnostic accuracy and improving disease surveillance. • Established cost-effective protocols for Oxford nanopore sequencing of key genes in Plasmodium falciparum, contributing to cutting-edge genomic research and supporting global malaria eradication efforts. • Conducted comprehensive data analysis and interpretation of genomic research findings, contributing to publications and the development of innovative strategies for controlling emerging infectious diseases. • Assisted in developing and maintaining a biobank that adheres to international standards, ensuring the availability of high-quality biological samples for global collaborative research. • Published scientific reports and research findings in peer-reviewed journals, disseminating critical knowledge to the wider scientific community. • Supervised and mentored Master's and undergraduate students in their research projects, guiding them in experimental design, data collection, and analysis, while fostering a learning environment for future researchers. • Played a key role in developing and managing research studies aimed at addressing public health concerns, focusing on emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases, aligning with the center's mission to strengthen African health systems

Administrative and Laboratory Assistant

2017 - 2018

Osun State University • Osogbo, Osun State

Provided comprehensive laboratory and administrative support for academic research and student experiments in university setting. • Assisted in conducting laboratory experiments by processing biological and chemical samples, ensuring accurate classification and recording of findings. • Operated and maintained essential laboratory equipment, including microscopes, laboratory ovens, and incubators, to support student experiments. • Supported laboratory setup and cleanup, ensuring a safe and organized work environment for academic research and practical student sessions. • Managed laboratory inventory by tracking supplies and preparing materials for upcoming experiments, ensuring smooth laboratory operations. • Collaborated with faculty and students to provide administrative support, including organizing experiment schedules and documenting experimental procedures.

Laboratory Assistant

2015 - 2016

Cadbury Cocoa Processing Plant • Ondo, Ondo State

Supported quality control and assurance operations in industrial cocoa processing facility through laboratory testing and analysis. • Assisted in conducting daily quality control and assurance analyses of cocoa products to ensure compliance with industry standards. • Verified and maintained the accuracy of laboratory equipment by performing routine calibration checks, supporting consistent testing results. • Classified and organized analysis results, contributing to data management and reporting for quality assurance processes. • Collaborated with the quality control team to ensure the precision and reliability of laboratory procedures in product testing. • Supported the implementation of safety and hygiene protocols within the laboratory environment to meet operational standards.

EDUCATION

Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH)

- Present

PhD in Medical Microbiology and Parasitology

Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH)

2018 - 2021

MSc in Medical Microbiology and Parasitology

University of Ibadan

2013 - 2016

BSc in Microbiology