Recent Microbiology Graduate & Computational Research Specialist
Calabar, NG.
About
Highly motivated and detail-oriented recent Microbiology graduate with a Second Class Upper Division, specializing in computational and experimental research for drug discovery and antimicrobial activity. Proven ability to apply advanced simulation tools, molecular techniques, and laboratory procedures to drive impactful scientific investigations and contribute to pharmaceutical advancements. Eager to leverage strong analytical and technical skills in a challenging research or laboratory role.
Work
Computational and Bio-Simulation Research Group, University of Calabar
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Graduate Research Assistant
Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria
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Summary
Led computational and simulation projects focused on drug delivery research and biosensor design, leveraging advanced molecular modeling and pharmacokinetic analysis.
Highlights
Spearheaded the application of advanced computational and simulation tools to accelerate drug delivery research, identifying novel therapeutic pathways and optimizing compound efficacy.
Pioneered investigations into nanomaterial applications for biosensor design and drug delivery systems, contributing to advancements in diagnostic capabilities and targeted therapy.
Executed complex ligand molecule modeling for pharmaceutical applications using DFT, Gaussian 16, Biovia Discovery Studio, Autodock Vina, Pyrx, and PYMOL, informing drug candidate selection and optimization.
Leveraged online web servers for comprehensive pharmacokinetic (ADMET) analysis of ligand molecules, optimizing drug candidate profiles for efficacy, safety, and bioavailability.
New Age International Secondary School Omata
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Teaching Assistant (NYSC)
Omata, Ebonyi State, Nigeria
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Summary
Instructed senior school students in Biology and Chemistry, fostering academic growth and scientific understanding.
Highlights
Delivered engaging and comprehensive lessons in Biology and Chemistry to senior school students, enhancing understanding of complex scientific concepts.
Supported student learning through individualized instruction and group activities, contributing to improved academic performance and scientific literacy.
Developed and implemented effective teaching strategies tailored to diverse learning styles, promoting an inclusive and dynamic classroom environment.
Department of Microbiology, University of Calabar
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Undergraduate Researcher
Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria
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Summary
Conducted experimental and computational studies on isoflavanol extraction, antimicrobial activity, and molecular interactions, contributing to thesis research.
Highlights
Successfully extracted and characterized isoflavanol from Nigerian propolis using both experimental and computational methods, establishing a foundation for antimicrobial drug development.
Performed agar well diffusion assays to determine antimicrobial activity against Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli, H. pylori, C. albicans, and C. tropicalis, identifying potential therapeutic agents.
Executed computational characterization of the electronic properties of isoflavanol structures, providing insights into their reactivity and potential mechanisms of action.
Conducted molecular docking of isoflavanol against key microbial proteins, elucidating binding affinities and predicting potential drug targets for novel antimicrobial therapies.
Analyzed the pharmacokinetics of isoflavonol, assessing its absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion properties to predict in-vivo behavior and optimize drug design.
Winas Medical Laboratory and Diagnostic Center
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Laboratory Assistant
Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria
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Summary
Managed laboratory samples, performed quality control, assisted in diagnostic procedures, and trained new personnel to ensure operational excellence.
Highlights
Streamlined sample identification, collection, and handling processes, significantly improving laboratory efficiency and data integrity.
Conducted rigorous quality control tests on all laboratory results, ensuring 100% accuracy and reliability of diagnostic outcomes.
Assisted in a wide range of medical laboratory procedures, including sample analysis, serological, hematological, and microbial diagnostics, supporting accurate patient diagnoses.
Provided comprehensive training and mentorship to new laboratory trainees in microbiological procedures, enhancing team capabilities and adherence to safety protocols.
Winas Medical Laboratory and Diagnostic Center
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Industrial Trainee
Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria
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Summary
Gained hands-on experience in medical laboratory procedures, supporting diagnostic processes and operational workflows.
Highlights
Assisted in medical laboratory procedures, including sample analysis, serological, hematological, and microbial diagnostics, gaining practical expertise in clinical testing.
Contributed to efficient laboratory operations by supporting sample preparation and data entry, ensuring timely processing of diagnostic tests.
Learned and applied best practices in laboratory safety and quality control, maintaining high standards for accuracy and compliance.
Volunteer
Community Development Service
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NYSC
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Conducted community awareness campaigns on drug usage and abuse prevention.
Highlights
Orchestrated community awareness and sensitization campaigns focused on drug usage and abuse, educating residents on prevention and risks.
Engaged community members through interactive sessions and materials, fostering informed decision-making regarding substance abuse.
Enhanced Independent Monitoring
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World Health Organization
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Monitored nOPV2 vaccination processes and ensured high vaccination rates in rural communities.
Highlights
Monitored the nOPV2 vaccination process in rural communities across Ebonyi State, ensuring adherence to public health protocols.
Ensured that all eligible children under 5 years old were vaccinated against polio, contributing to critical public health outcomes.
Delivered daily presentations on vaccination outcomes for visited communities, facilitating transparent communication and accountability.
President
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Community Development Service (CDS) National Youth Service Corp (NYSC) Onicha L.G.A
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Led the Community Development Service initiatives for the National Youth Service Corp, overseeing program execution and member engagement.
Highlights
Presided over the CDS group, directing strategic planning and implementation of community development projects within Onicha L.G.A.
Mobilized and managed Corp members for various community initiatives, ensuring effective resource allocation and project delivery.
Represented the CDS group in liaisons with local authorities and stakeholders, fostering collaborative partnerships for community upliftment.
Cancer Prevention Campaign
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OCI Foundation
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Promoted awareness and education on breast and cervical cancer screening and treatment.
Highlights
Promoted breast and cervical cancer screening and treatment awareness through targeted campaigns, reaching diverse community demographics.
Educated the public on early detection methods and available treatment options, contributing to improved health outcomes.
Disease Awareness and Control Campaign
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NYSC
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Led a three-week campaign on Hepatitis B, Lassa fever, and Cholera for Corp members.
Highlights
Led a three-week awareness, surveillance, and control campaign on Hepatitis B, Lassa fever, and Cholera for Corp members, enhancing public health knowledge.
Provided critical information on disease prevention, symptoms, and management strategies, empowering participants to safeguard their health.
Chief Press Secretary to the President
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Yala-Obubra Students Association (YOSA)
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Handled public relations and communication strategies for the Yala-Obubra Students Association, enhancing visibility and member outreach.
Highlights
Drafted and disseminated press releases, official statements, and promotional materials, effectively communicating YOSA's mission and activities.
Managed media relations and public image, ensuring positive representation of the association to stakeholders and the wider community.
Developed engaging content for internal and external communications, fostering strong connections with members and partners.
General Secretary
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Nigerian Association of Microbiology Students, University of Calabar (NAMS-UCC)
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Managed administrative and communication functions for the Microbiology Students Association, supporting student engagement and academic activities.
Highlights
Managed all official correspondence and records for NAMS-UCC, ensuring efficient communication and organizational transparency.
Coordinated logistics for student meetings, events, and academic programs, facilitating active participation and engagement.
Supported the executive board in strategic planning and decision-making, contributing to the overall success of student initiatives.
General Secretary
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Catholic Alter Servers Association, Christ the King Station Num-Yala, St. Francis Xavier Parish Obubra
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Maintained records and facilitated communication for the Catholic Alter Servers Association, supporting liturgical and organizational functions.
Highlights
Maintained accurate records of meetings, membership, and activities for the association, ensuring clear historical documentation.
Facilitated internal and external communications, ensuring timely dissemination of information to members and parish leadership.
Supported the President in administrative tasks and event coordination, contributing to the smooth operation of the association.
Education
University of Calabar
Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria
BScMicrobiologyGrade: Second Class Upper Division
Courses
Thesis: Experimental and Computational investigation of the antimicrobial activity of isoflavanol from Nigeria propolis.
Awards
Member
America Chemical Society (ACS)
Professional membership in the world's largest scientific society for chemistry.
Member
Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Professional membership in a leading international chemical sciences community.
Member
American Society of Microbiology (ASM)
Professional membership in a premier life science organization dedicated to microbiology.
Class Sportsman of the Year
Department of Microbiology, University of Calabar
Recognized for outstanding sportsmanship and athletic contributions within the Microbiology Department.
Publications
In silico engineering study of selenium (Se) and tellurium (Te) mono-doping and Se-Te co-doping of a covalent organic framework as a sensor for gemfibrozil pharmaceutical pollutants.
Materials Science and Engineering: B
Adindu, E. A., Ushie, A. I., Ekpong, B. O., Malu, D. G., Agurokpon, D. C., & Akor, F. O. (2024). In silico engineering study of selenium (Se) and tellurium (Te) mono-doping and Se-Te co-doping of a covalent organic framework as a sensor for gemfibrozil pharmaceutical pollutants. Materials Science and Engineering: B, 310, 117762.
Isolation, Characterization, Antimicrobial Properties, and Theoretical Investigations of a New Isoflavanol from Nigerian Red Propolis for Therapeutic Applications.
Journal of Molecular Structure
Iyen, I. S., Anyam, J. V., Malu, D. G., Santali, E., Igoli, J. O., Ekpong, B. O., ... & Tor-Anyiin, T. A. (2024). Isolation, Characterization, Antimicrobial Properties, and Theoretical Investigations of a New Isoflavanol from Nigerian Red Propolis for Therapeutic Applications. Journal of Molecular Structure, 139203.
Transition metals tailoring of phosphorus-doped gallium nitride nanotubes as sensors for N-butenyl homoserine lactone (BHL): A computational study.
Computational and Theoretical Chemistry
Ekpong, B. O., Abdullah, H. Y., Emmanuel, E., Benjamin, I., & Agurokpon, D. C. (2024). Transition metals tailoring of phosphorus-doped gallium nitride nanotubes as sensors for N-butenyl homoserine lactone (BHL): A computational study. Computational and Theoretical Chemistry, 114914.
Yttrium-encapsulated fullerene (Y@C80) mono-doping with As, Bi, Sb, and P for the enhanced sensing of methylmalonic acid (MMA) as a biomarker for vitamin B12 deficiency: A DFT study.
Computational and Theoretical Chemistry
Ekpong, B. O., Ogbogu, M. N., Edet, H. O., & Emmanuel, E. (2024). Yttrium-encapsulated fullerene (Y@C80) mono-doping with As, Bi, Sb, and P for the enhanced sensing of methylmalonic acid (MMA) as a biomarker for vitamin B12 deficiency: A DFT study. Computational and Theoretical Chemistry, 1242, 114972.
Elucidating the structural basis for the enhanced antifungal activity of amide derivative against Candida albicans: a comprehensive computational investigation.
In Silico Pharmacology
Kechi, E. L., Ubah, C. B., Runde, M., Owen, A. E., Godfrey, O. C., Agurokpon, D. C., Odey, M. O., Edet, U. O., Ekpong, B. O., Benjamin, I. & Sampathkumar, G. (2024). Elucidating the structural basis for the enhanced antifungal activity of amide derivative against Candida albicans: a comprehensive computational investigation. In Silico Pharmacology, 12(1), 48.
Structural, electronic characterization, and antiviral potential of a thiadiazol derivative targeting nucleoprotein of Lassa fever virus: insights from DFT investigation, pharmacokinetic, and molecular docking.
Discover Chemistry
Ekpong, B.O., Runde, M., Ashishie, P.B. Gulack, A. O., Iyam, S. O., Edet, U. O., Otoh, E. F., Ayoola, O. V., Akor, F. O., Imojara, B., Egbelo, J. E., & Benjamin I. (2024). Structural, electronic characterization, and antiviral potential of a thiadiazol derivative targeting nucleoprotein of Lassa fever virus: insights from DFT investigation, pharmacokinetic, and molecular docking. Discover Chemistry. 1, 18
Comprehensive computational and pharmacokinetic investigation of an amide derivative (C34H34N8O4S2) as a potential drug candidate for tuberculosis: Unraveling structural analysis and reactivity descriptors.
Journal of the Indian Chemical Society
Iyam, S. O., Edeghor, U. O., Andrew, B. H., Agurokpon, D. C., Runde, M., Odey, M. O., Akor, F.O., Ekpong, B. O., Eze, A. A., & Benjamin, I. (2024). Comprehensive computational and pharmacokinetic investigation of an amide derivative (C34H34N8O4S2) as a potential drug candidate for tuberculosis: Unraveling structural analysis and reactivity descriptors. Journal of the Indian Chemical Society, 101369.
Surface modification of graphene and fullerene with Sulfur (S), Selenium (Se), and Oxygen (O): DFT Simulation for enhanced zidovudine delivery in HIV treatment.
BMC chemistry
Akor, F. O., Edo, G. D., Nelson, F. A., Johnson, A. U., Iyam, S. O., Abubakar, M. N., Gulack, A.O., Ubah, C. B., Ekpong, B. O., & Benjamin*, I. (2024). Surface modification of graphene and fullerene with Sulfur (S), Selenium (Se), and Oxygen (O): DFT Simulation for enhanced zidovudine delivery in HIV treatment. BMC chemistry, 18(1), 156.
Structural analysis, reactivity descriptors (HOMO-LUMO, ELF, NBO), effect of polar (DMSO, EtOH, H2O) solvation, and libido-enhancing potential of resveratrol by molecular docking.
Chemical Physics Impact
Adindu, E. A., Godfrey, O. C., Agwupuye, E. I., Ekpong, B. O., Agurokpon, D. C., Ogbodo, S. E., & Louis, H. (2023). Structural analysis, reactivity descriptors (HOMO-LUMO, ELF, NBO), effect of polar (DMSO, EtOH, H2O) solvation, and libido-enhancing potential of resveratrol by molecular docking. Chemical Physics Impact, 7, 100296.
Languages
English
Skills
Scientific Research
APA Citation, MLA Citation, Experimental Design, Data Analysis, Research Methodology.