Open to opportunities

Sheila Kimani

@sheilakimani

I am an entry-level research assistant skilled in microbiology, plant tissue culture, and remote administrative support.

Kenya

Message

What I'm looking for

I seek entry-level laboratory or research roles in microbiology or plant biotechnology with hands-on lab work, collaborative teams, and growth opportunities.

I am an entry-level scientist with a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology and Biotechnology, graduating with Second-class Honors, upper division, and multiple academic recognitions. I take pride in being detail-oriented, reliable, and strong at time management.

In clinical and diagnostic settings I conducted rapid patient sample testing (including GeneXpert MTB/RIF), prepared microbiological cultures, and performed antibiotic sensitivity testing. My attachments sharpened my laboratory technique and adherence to quality and safety protocols.

As a research assistant in plant breeding, I designed micropropagation protocols for Solanum tuberosum, Saintpaulia spp., and Phaseolus vulgaris, optimized Murashige and Skoog media with hormonal supplementation, and improved subculturing practices to preserve root regeneration. I also collaborated on DNA extractions (CTAB method) and experiments evaluating Rhizobium effects on cowpea growth.

Alongside laboratory work, I provide part-time administrative support: calendar management, minute-taking, event coordination for large gatherings, content oversight, and confidential record handling. I am motivated to apply my laboratory and organizational strengths to entry-level roles that offer hands-on science and collaborative growth.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Administrative Assistant

Current

Movie Jabber Limited

Jun 2023 - Present (2 years 3 months)

Managed calendars and administrative operations part-time, coordinated a 20-person team to organize four events attracting over 1,000 attendees each, and produced reports and content for social media campaigns.

Calendar Management Meeting Coordination Event Planning Content Creation Social Media Management Google Workspace Microsoft Office Minute Taking

Student Attachment

Kenya Forestry Research Institute

Jul 2023 - Sep 2023 (2 months)

Subcultured 30 culture bottles daily—improving tissue culture lab efficiency by 80%—extracted plant DNA for 100 samples biweekly using CTAB, and identified pathogenic fungi to guide farmer recommendations.

Tissue Culture Subculturing CTAB DNA Extraction Fungal Identification Data Collection

Student Attachment

Pathologists Lancet Kenya

Aug 2022 - Oct 2022 (2 months)

Performed diagnostic testing including rapid tests for H. pylori and Campylobacter, antibiotic sensitivity assays, and GeneXpert MTB/RIF to support timely patient diagnosis during a three-month attachment.

Antibiotic Susceptibility Testing GeneXpert MTB RIF Laboratory Safety

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

University of Nairobi

Bachelor of Science, Microbiology and Biotechnology

Grade: Second-class Honors (Upper Division)

Activities and societies: Certificate of Merit: Best Second-year student in the Faculty of Science and Technology; Certificate of Recognition: Best 4th year Student in Academic Performance.

Completed a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology and Biotechnology at the University of Nairobi, graduating on September 20, 2024. Achieved Second-class Honors (Upper Division) and received merit certificates for Best Second-year student and Best 4th-year student in academic performance.