Mawuli MacDonald
Brookings,SD
Summary
Enthusiastic analytical chemist with 4+ years experience in method development, LC-MS/MS, troubleshooting, and sample preparation techniques from biological and environmental matrices. Adept at designing and executing experiments, documenting results, and synthesizing complex information into succinct summaries for presentation to diverse audiences. Ability to independently handle multiple projects simultaneously, as well as work collaboratively with other scientists. Proficient oral and written communication skills.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Graduate Research Assistant
South Dakota State University
07.2018 - Current
- Development of a novel technique for the analysis of 2-nitrophenol in biological samples (tissue, blood, and plasma) as biomarkers for oxidative stress-related diseases.
- Application of a novel technique for the trace analysis of macrolide antibiotics in purified water (azithromycin, clarithromycin, and erythromycin).
- Analysis of PFAS in drinking water using solid-phase extraction gas-chromatography-mass spectrometry.
- Ultratrace determination of neonicotinoid pesticides in surface water using ICECLES and liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry.
- Ultratrace analysis of a suite of bisphenols (Bisphenol A, Bisphenol F,and Bisphenol S) via ICECLES and liquid-chromatography tandem mass spectrometry.
- Synthesized, purified, and characterized small molecules for fluorometric determination of fluoride.
- Participate actively in regular meetings with fellow researchers to discuss project updates, challenges faced, and lessons learned during ongoing activities.
- Work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced laboratory environment.
- Provide support, training, and guidance to junior graduate research assistants.
- Operate and perform preventative maintenance on high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) instruments.
- Troubleshoot and resolve equipment and process issues.
- Maintain an up-to-date chemical inventory.
- Order chemicals, lab equipment, and dispose of chemical wastes per EHS guidelines.
Graduate Teaching Assistant
South Dakota State University
07.2018 - Current
- Taught freshman to junior college-level chemistry (general, organic, and biochemistry) courses for approximately 60 students per semester.
- Supported instructors in grading exams and papers, maintaining accurate records of student performance throughout the semester.
- Provided timely and constructive feedback on assignments, enabling students to refine their work and achieve higher grades.
- Offered office hours and one-on-one meetings with students to provide additional support and guidance to students.
- Assisted in the development of course materials, ensuring content was relevant and engaging for students.
- Developed strong rapport with students through open communication channels, fostering an inclusive learning environment.
- Served as a liaison between faculty members and students, addressing concerns and facilitating resolution of issues promptly.
- Mentored new graduate teaching assistants, providing guidance on best practices and classroom management strategies.
Emergency Medical Technician
Paramedics Plus
07.2016 - 06.2018
- Enhanced patient care by administering appropriate treatments based on thorough assessments of vital signs, physical conditions, and medical histories in high-pressure situations.
- Increased team efficiency by collaborating with paramedics, firefighters, and other emergency personnel to provide seamless emergency care to patients.
- Advanced patient comfort during transport by employing proper handling techniques and providing emotional support as needed.
- Conducted equipment and vehicle checks to maintain continuous and safe operation.
Undergraduate Research Assistant
Northwestern College Of Iowa
08.2014 - 12.2015
- Optimization of actin and tubulin loading controls for Nothobranchius furzeri
- Successfully ran gel electrophoresis
- Independently carried out Western Blot Procedure
- Presented novel research on the accumulation of alpha synuclein in N. furzeri to members of scientific community on campus
- Mastered histotechniques such as fixation, tissue processing, sectioning, staining and coverslipping.
- Organized laboratory materials and maintained equipment for efficient daily operations.
- Adhered to laboratory safety procedures to maintain compliance with quality control standards.
Education
Ph.D. - Chemistry
South Dakota State University
Brookings, SD06.2024
Bachelor of Arts - Chemistry
Northwestern College
Orange City, IA05.2016
Skills
- Analytical Chemistry
- Liquid Chromatography
- Mass Spectrometry
- Instrumentation [GC-MS, LC-MS/MS, FTIR, UV/Vis, Fluorimetry]
- Synthesis and characterization of small molecules [LLE, TLC, column chromatography, NMR]
- Quantitative and Qualitative Analysis
- Sample Preparation [SPE, SBSE, ICECLES, LLE, PPT]
- Method Development
- Problem Solving and Troubleshooting
- Software [Analyst, ChemStation, Bruker TopSpin]
- Excel, ChemDraw, SciFinder, Endnote
- R studio
Accomplishments
- Logue Award for Academic Excellence in First-Year Graduate School-SDSU (2019)
- Outstanding poster presentation on the Ultratrace Analysis of Neonicotinoids in Surface Waters at the Eastern South Dakota Waters Conference in 2023.
Timeline
Graduate Research Assistant
South Dakota State University
07.2018 - Current
Graduate Teaching Assistant
South Dakota State University
07.2018 - Current
Emergency Medical Technician
Paramedics Plus
07.2016 - 06.2018
Undergraduate Research Assistant
Northwestern College Of Iowa
08.2014 - 12.2015
Ph.D. - Chemistry
South Dakota State University
Bachelor of Arts - Chemistry
Northwestern College
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