Mubanga Kabwe
Leiden,South Holland
Summary
Accomplished Scientist and Product Manager at BaseClear B.V. with expertise in molecular diagnostics and analytical method optimization. Led cross-functional teams to achieve an 80% increase in assay throughput, demonstrating strong project management skills. Proficient in RT-qPCR and committed to mentoring junior scientists while ensuring innovation and compliance in high-stakes environments. Aiming to leverage extensive technical knowledge to drive further advancements in the field.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
2
2
Certification
Work History
Scientist | Product Manager
BaseClear B.V
Leiden
12.2021 - Current
- Serve as the Subject Matter Expert (SME) for commercial and R&D projects, specializing in molecular diagnostics, and analytical method optimization.
- Developed qPCR-based and NGS-based diagnostic solutions to enhance detection methodologies for cell and gene therapy products.
- Led cross-functional collaborations between Analytical Development, Quality Assurance, and External Quality teams to ensure compliance, and efficient technology transfer.
- Conducted root cause analyses and troubleshooting for QC and manufacturing challenges, improving product release efficiency.
- Spearheaded workflow optimization that resulted in an 80% increase in assay throughput within 12 months, enhancing turnaround time for molecular-based detection assays.
- Implemented data-driven decision-making frameworks and statistical analyses for process optimization.
- Refined leadership skills by coaching and mentoring junior scientists, fostering skill development, and knowledge sharing.
- Introduced new laboratory technologies and improved testing methodologies across different departmental QC sites.
- Implemented computational tools for genetic analysis, gene detection, and quantification.
Senior R&D Scientist
CapeBio Technologies
South Africa
08.2020 - 09.2021
- Developed and led the SARS-CoV-2 RT-qPCR detection assay project, securing SAHPRA regulatory approval within 12 months.
- Established a metagenomic data analysis pipeline that accelerated enzyme discovery by 70% within three months.
- Served as the lead point of contact for test implementation and troubleshooting critical reagent challenges.
- Designed and executed validation protocols for molecular methods, ensuring regulatory compliance with GMP and ISO 15189 standards.
- Provided technical training and mentorship to junior researchers and cross-functional teams.
Medical Scientist (Molecular)
Ampath Laboratories
South Africa
01.2020 - 07.2020
- Performed advanced molecular testing and quality control for high-throughput sample analysis.
- Implemented accreditation and regulatory protocols, improving GMP and ISO 15189 compliance.
- Enhanced test efficiency, leading to a 40% improvement in SARS-CoV-2 specimen identification within one month.
Market Research Assistant
Thermo Fisher Scientific
South Africa
01.2017 - 01.2017
- Provided scientific insights for product development, aligning market research with diagnostic assay needs.
Laboratory Technical Assistant
University of Pretoria
South Africa
01.2015 - 12.2015
- Designed and executed microbiological and molecular testing protocols, ensuring adherence to quality standards.
- Conducted safety and equipment training, reducing reagent costs by R50,000 through improved lab practices.
Education
PhD - Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Metagenomics, Bioinformatics
University of Pretoria
South Africa05.2021
MSc - Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Mycology, Biotechnology
University of Pretoria
South Africa10.2015
Honors - Microbiology, Industrial & Environmental Microbiology, Virology
North-West University
South Africa11.2012
BSc - Biology & Chemistry, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Genetics
North-West University
South Africa11.2011
Skills
- Molecular Diagnostics
- Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS)
- RT-qPCR
- Bioinformatics
- Assay Development and Validation
- Statistical Data Analysis
- Root Cause Investigations
- Analytical Method Optimization
- GMP
- GLP
- ISO15189 Laboratory Standards
- Quality Assurance (QA)
- Regulatory guidelines
- Cross-functional Team Leadership
- Technical Training and Mentorship
- Process Optimization
- Technology Transfer
- Investigations & Troubleshooting
Certification
- Certificate in Introduction to Project Management, IBM, 09/04/2025
- Certificate in International Organization Management, University of Geneva, 01/01/2019, Present
- Certificate of Academic Excellence, North-West University, 01/01/13, Present
Publications
- The gut mycobiota of rural and urban individuals is shaped by geography, BMC Microbiology
- The draft genome sequence of Hymenobacter sp. CRA2, Genomics Data
- Draft genome sequence of Massilia sp. KIM, Genomics Data
Projects And Innovations
- QPCR Target Identification, BaseClear BV, 2022, 2023, Developed a pipeline for identifying unique qPCR targets, enhancing diagnostic specificity.
- SARS-CoV-2 RT-qPCR Assay Development, CapeBio Technologies, 2020, 2021, Led assay development, securing regulatory approval from SAHPRA.
Skills And Expertise
Molecular Diagnostics, Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), RT-qPCR, Bioinformatics, Assay Development & Validation, Statistical Data Analysis, Root Cause Investigations, Analytical Method Optimization, GMP, GLP, ISO15189 Laboratory Standards, Quality Assurance (QA), Regulatory Guidelines, Cross-functional Team Leadership, Technical Training & Mentorship, Process Optimization, Technology Transfer, Investigations & Troubleshooting
Affiliations
- Pottery making (handbuilding) and design
- Reading (member of the Shades of Brown Book Club)
- Cooking (Enjoy baking and trying new dishes)
Accomplishments
- Innovation Doctoral Fellowship, National Research Foundation (NRF), South Africa (01/2016)
- Innovation Masters Fellowship, National Research Foundation (NRF), South Africa (01/2014)
- Masters Academic Scholarship, Genomics Research Institute (GRI), South Africa (02/2013)
Languages
English
First Language
English
Proficient (C2)
C2
Dutch
Beginner
A1
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Scientist | Product Manager
BaseClear B.V
12.2021 - Current
Senior R&D Scientist
CapeBio Technologies
08.2020 - 09.2021
Medical Scientist (Molecular)
Ampath Laboratories
01.2020 - 07.2020
Market Research Assistant
Thermo Fisher Scientific
01.2017 - 01.2017
Laboratory Technical Assistant
University of Pretoria
01.2015 - 12.2015
PhD - Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Metagenomics, Bioinformatics
University of Pretoria
MSc - Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Mycology, Biotechnology
University of Pretoria
Honors - Microbiology, Industrial & Environmental Microbiology, Virology
North-West University
BSc - Biology & Chemistry, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Genetics
North-West University
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