National Veterinary Research Institute Vom
|Research Assistant
Vom, Plateau State, Nigeria
Summary
Spearheaded critical research initiatives in virology and molecular biology within a BSL-3 laboratory environment, contributing to the understanding and control of emerging infectious diseases under the West African Center for Emerging Infectious Disease (WAC-EID).
Highlights
Executed advanced viral isolation protocols using primary cell lines and diverse cell culture techniques, contributing to key findings in anti-viral activity of medicinal plants.
Performed comprehensive nucleic acid (DNA/RNA) isolation and quantification, ensuring high-quality samples for downstream molecular analyses and epidemiological studies.
Pioneered the application of various PCR techniques, including Real-time PCR, Conventional PCR, and High Resolution Melting (HRM) curve analysis, to accurately detect and characterize viral pathogens.
Operated cutting-edge sequencing technologies, specifically Oxford Nanopore sequencing (MiniION), and electrophoretic methods (Agarose gel) for genetic analysis and pathogen identification.
Conducted immunological assays such as ELISA and Immunoblotting (Western blotting) to detect viral antigens and antibodies, providing crucial data for diagnostic and surveillance efforts.
Managed Biosafety Level 3 (BSL-3) laboratory operations, strictly adhering to safety protocols for handling highly pathogenic biological agents, ensuring research integrity and personnel safety.
Contributed to field work, including sample collection, registration, and meticulous documentation, maintaining data integrity for epidemiological studies.
Utilized MTT assays to assess cell viability and metabolic activity, providing critical insights into cellular responses to viral infections and therapeutic interventions.