Oluwatobi Sarah Otun

Senior Postdoctoral Fellow | Molecular & Cell Biologist | Omics Scientist
Johannesburg, ZA.

About

Highly accomplished Senior Postdoctoral Fellow with an interdisciplinary background in molecular biology, omics science, and cancer research, driving innovative drug discovery and natural product-based therapies. Recognized for over 20 publications, multiple prestigious awards, and a strong commitment to advancing scientific understanding and mentoring future researchers. Leverages advanced analytical skills in bioinformatics, 3D cell systems, and computational analysis to deliver high-impact research outcomes.

Work

University of the Witwatersrand
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Post-Doctoral Fellow

Johannesburg, South Africa, South Africa

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Summary

Led interdisciplinary research in molecular biology, omics science, and 3D cell systems to advance drug discovery and natural product-based therapies, while mentoring emerging scientists.

Highlights

Recognized as the 2025 MCB Top Postdoctoral Fellow and Head of School Top Achieving Postdoctoral Fellow, demonstrating exceptional research productivity and leadership.

Awarded the UCL-Wits Pre-Clinical 3D Modelling Team Science Award for a meritorious project, showcasing expertise in innovative research methodologies.

Secured multiple research grants, including the 2023-2025 University of the Witwatersrand Research Foundation Postdoctoral Fellowship and the 2025 Medical Research Council (MRC) Research grant.

Authored and co-authored over 20 publications in prestigious journals, contributing significantly to the scientific understanding of plant pathology, protein biochemistry, and cancer science.

Mentored and co-supervised numerous MSc and PhD students, organized student workshops, and provided lectures on molecular biology, protein biochemistry, and omics tools.

University of the Witwatersrand
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Research Assistant

Johannesburg, South Africa, South Africa

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Summary

Conducted advanced scientific investigations, applying omics technologies and bioinformatics to contribute to critical research projects in life sciences.

Highlights

Contributed to GCRF Funding (Scottish Funding Council) and SARCHI Programme (DST-NRF Postdoctoral Fellowship) projects, supporting grant-funded research initiatives.

Applied transcriptomic, proteomic, and metabolomic profiling techniques to pathogen studies, enhancing understanding of disease mechanisms.

Assisted in data mining and bioinformatics analysis, supporting the interpretation of complex biological datasets for research objectives.

Developed proficiency in scientific writing and competitive grant writing, contributing to successful research proposals and publications.

Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)
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Microbiology Researcher

Pretoria, South Africa, South Africa

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Summary

Performed specialized microbiology research, investigating processing techniques' impact on food quality and safety, and contributing to scientific publications.

Highlights

Conducted extensive research on the microbiological and nutritional qualities of leafy vegetables, contributing to food safety and public health knowledge.

Authored a Master's dissertation on 'The effect of processing techniques on the microbiological and nutritional qualities of the leafy vegetables Vigna unguiculata and Moringa oleifera,' demonstrating expertise in food microbiology.

Applied advanced laboratory techniques to analyze microbial populations and biochemical properties, ensuring data accuracy and research integrity.

Collaborated with a research team to achieve project milestones, enhancing scientific understanding in applied microbiology.

Ayodele Medical Centre
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Medical Laboratory Technician

Lagos, Nigeria, Nigeria

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Summary

Executed essential laboratory diagnostics and analyses, ensuring accurate testing and contributing to patient care and medical research.

Highlights

Performed routine and specialized laboratory tests, including microbiological cultures and biochemical assays, to support patient diagnosis.

Maintained laboratory equipment and ensured adherence to quality control standards, contributing to reliable test results.

Managed sample collection and processing, ensuring proper handling and preparation for various diagnostic procedures.

Assisted senior medical staff in interpreting laboratory findings, providing critical data for clinical decision-making.

Volunteer

Peoples University
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Volunteer Proctor

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Summary

Administered and supervised examinations to ensure academic integrity and a fair testing environment.

Highlights

Ensured strict adherence to examination protocols, upholding the credibility of academic assessments.

Supported students during examination periods, contributing to a positive learning environment.

Tony Elumelu Foundation
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Judge/Mentor

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Summary

Provided mentorship and evaluation for aspiring entrepreneurs and innovators, supporting their development and strategic growth.

Highlights

Evaluated business proposals and guided mentees through strategic planning, contributing to the success of emerging ventures.

Shared expertise in scientific and business domains to foster entrepreneurial talent within the foundation's programs.

Science Squad Africa
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Mentor/Coordinator South Africa

South Africa, South Africa

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Summary

Led and coordinated scientific mentorship programs in South Africa, promoting STEM education and engagement among young individuals.

Highlights

Organized and facilitated educational initiatives, significantly increasing participation in science-related activities.

Mentored students in scientific principles and career pathways, inspiring the next generation of researchers.

Cassava Summit
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Co-organiser

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Summary

Co-organized a major scientific summit focused on cassava, facilitating knowledge exchange and collaboration among researchers and stakeholders.

Highlights

Managed logistical and programmatic aspects of the summit, ensuring successful execution and participant engagement.

Facilitated discussions on the future of cassava in Southern Africa, promoting research and development in agricultural biotechnology.

Education

University of South Africa
Florida, South Africa, South Africa

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Ph.D.

Life Sciences

Courses

Thesis: Transcriptomic, Proteomic and Metabolomic Profiling of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum

University of South Africa
Florida, South Africa, South Africa

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M.Sc.

Life Sciences

Courses

Dissertation: The effect of processing techniques on the microbiological and nutritional qualities of the leafy vegetables Vigna unguiculata and Moringa oleifera

Lagos State University
Ojo, Nigeria, Nigeria

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B.Sc.

Microbiology

Courses

Research Project: The effect of pH on the survival of Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi, Staphylococcus aureus in Kunu-Zaki

Awards

2025 MCB Top Postdoctoral Fellow Award

Awarded By

University of the Witwatersrand, School of Molecular and Cell Biology

Awarded in recognition as a top-achieving postdoctoral fellow.

Head of School's Top Achieving Post Doctoral Fellow

Awarded By

University of the Witwatersrand

Awarded by the School of Molecular and Cell Biology, Wits, in recognition as a top-achieving postdoctoral fellow.

UCL-Wits Preclinical 3D Modeling Team Science Award

Awarded By

UCL-Wits University Strategic Partnership Platform

Awarded in recognition of a meritorious project selected as the best project presented.

Provisional Selection for Best Researcher Award (International Research Hypothesis Excellence Award)

Awarded By

International Research Hypothesis Excellence Award

Recognised for recent publication: 'The use of muscadine grape extracts (MGSE) in cancer treatment'.

Asia's Outstanding Researcher Award

Awarded By

Asia Research Awards, in association with Times of Research and the World Research Council, at ASTRA 2023

Presented by the Asia Research Awards for outstanding contributions to research.

Publications

Uncovering Proteomic Biomarkers in Cervical Cancer: A cBioPortal-Based Analysis of the TCGA Cohort.

Published by

Molecular Oncology

Summary

Authored a paper in review on proteomic biomarkers in cervical cancer using cBioPortal analysis.

Plasmodium yoelii as a model for malaria: insights into pathogenesis, drug resistance, and vaccine development.

Published by

Molecular Biology Reports

Summary

Authored a review on Plasmodium yoelii as a malaria model, exploring pathogenesis, drug resistance, and vaccine development.

Exploring protein adenylyltransferase as a therapeutic target for combating ESKAPE pathogens in hospital-acquired infections.

Published by

Molecular Biology Reports

Summary

Co-authored a review on protein adenylyltransferase as a therapeutic target against ESKAPE pathogens.

Epidemiological Trends in Hepatitis C Virus in Eastern Cape, South Africa (2014–2023): A Retrospective Analysis.

Published by

Journal of epidemiology and population health

Summary

Co-authored a paper in review on epidemiological trends of Hepatitis C Virus in Eastern Cape, South Africa.

Trends in Cervical Cancer Incidence by Ethnicity: Insights from the South African National Cancer Registry.

Published by

Cancer Communications

Summary

Co-authored a paper in review on cervical cancer incidence trends by ethnicity in South Africa.

Therapeutic Efficacy of Nanoparticles in the Treatment of Multidrug-Resistant Bacteria: Excitements and Pitfalls.

Published by

Journal of Drug Delivery Science and Technology

Summary

Co-authored a review on nanoparticles for multidrug-resistant bacteria treatment.

A compilation of histidine kinase genes in the genome of a tissue macerating Pectobacterium brasiliense isolated from potato in South Africa.

Published by

F1000Research

Summary

Authored research on histidine kinase genes in Pectobacterium brasiliense, enhancing knowledge of plant pathogens.

A data catalogue of alcohol dehydrogenases in the genome of a tissue macerating Pectobacterium brasiliense isolated from potato in South Africa.

Published by

Data in Brief

Summary

Authored a data catalogue on alcohol dehydrogenases in Pectobacterium brasiliense, providing valuable genomic resources.

Advances in Structural Proteomics using Mass Spectrometry. Applications of Modern Mass Spectrometry: Volume 2.

Summary

Co-authored a book chapter on structural proteomics using mass spectrometry.

A compilation of histidine kinase genes in Enterobacter hormaechei strain HCF3 isolated from the North West Province of South Africa.

Published by

F1000Research

Summary

Co-authored research on histidine kinase genes in Enterobacter hormaechei, contributing to understanding bacterial genetics.

Evaluation of Plasmodium berghei Models in Malaria Research.

Published by

Journal of Cellular Signaling

Summary

Authored a review evaluating Plasmodium berghei models in malaria research.

Combating Aminoglycoside Resistance: From Structural and Functional Characterisation to Therapeutic Challenges with RKAAT.

Published by

Current Protein and Peptide Science

Summary

Authored a review on combating aminoglycoside resistance through structural and functional characterization.

Tracking microbes from irrigation water to the crops: Metagenomics and metatranscriptomics.

Published by

Acta Microbiol. Bulg

Summary

Co-authored research on tracking microbes from irrigation water to crops using metagenomics and metatranscriptomics.

Unveiling the potential of Muscadine grape Skin extract as an innovative therapeutic intervention in cancer treatment.

Published by

Journal of Functional Foods

Summary

Authored research on Muscadine grape skin extract as a therapeutic intervention in cancer treatment.

Exploring NAD+ metabolism and NNAT: Insights from structure, function, and computational modelling.

Published by

Biochimie.

Summary

Co-authored research exploring NAD+ metabolism and NNAT through computational modeling.

Protein engineering for natural product biosynthesis: expanding diversity for therapeutic applications.

Published by

Journal of Bio-XResearch

Summary

Co-authored research on protein engineering for natural product biosynthesis and therapeutic applications.

The future of cassava in the era of biotechnology in Southern Africa.

Published by

Critical Reviews in Biotechnology

Summary

Co-authored a review on the future of cassava biotechnology in Southern Africa.

Proteomic Profiling of Burkholderia andropogonis.

Published by

preprints

Summary

Co-authored proteomic profiling of Burkholderia andropogonis, advancing bacterial protein analysis.

The secondary metabolites profiling of the phytopathogenic fungus Sclerotinia Sclerotiorum.

Published by

J Plant Sci Phytopathol.

Summary

Authored research on secondary metabolites of Sclerotinia Sclerotiorum, contributing to phytopathology.

Exploring the Complexity of Protein Structure Determination Through X-ray Diffraction.

Published by

Journal of Plant Science and Phytopathology

Summary

Authored research exploring protein structure determination via X-ray diffraction.

The prevalence of Plasmodium vivax and Plasmodium falciparum in Southern Africa: Current Trends in Microbiology.

Published by

Current Trends in Microbiology

Summary

Authored research on the prevalence of Plasmodium vivax and falciparum in Southern Africa.

Biophysical description of Bromosulfophthalein interaction with the 28-kDa glutathione transferase from Schistosoma japonicum.

Published by

Molecular and Biochemical Parasitology

Summary

Co-authored research on drug interaction with glutathione transferase, relevant to parasitic diseases.

Recent Advances in Plant--Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi Associations and Their Application to Cassava Crops.

Published by

IntechOpen

Summary

Authored a book chapter on plant-fungi associations and their application to cassava crops.

Proteomics analysis of the phytopathogenic fungus Sclerotinia sclerotiorum: a narrative review.

Published by

Journal of Bio-XResearch

Summary

Authored a narrative review on proteomics of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, summarizing current research.

Phylogenetic Analysis of Selected Genes of Pectobacterium Carotovorum Subsp. Brasiliense.

Published by

SSRN

Summary

Co-authored phylogenetic analysis of Pectobacterium Carotovorum, advancing bacterial classification.

Proteomic analysis of the phytogenic fungus Sclerotinia sclerotiorum.

Published by

Journal of Chromatography B

Summary

Authored proteomic analysis of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, contributing to fungal research.

How to knock down a plant; the three weapons of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum.

Published by

Journal of Biological Sciences

Summary

Authored research on methods to control Sclerotinia sclerotiorum in plants.

Languages

English

Certificates

Introduction to Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Issued By

Coursera (Johns Hopkins University)

NIDA Clinical Trials Network Certificate of Completion – Good Clinical Practice (GCP)

Issued By

NIDA Clinical Trials Network

120-Hour Advanced TEFL/TESOL Certificate

Issued By

Certificate in Teaching English as a Foreign Language

Candidate Member, South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP)

Issued By

SACNASP

Member, South African Society for Microbiology

Issued By

South African Society for Microbiology

Skills

Research & Development

Scientific Research, Molecular Biology, Omics Technologies, Cancer Research, Drug Discovery, Natural Product Chemistry, Antimicrobial Resistance, Plant Pathology, Protein Biochemistry, 3D Cell Culture, Computational Biology, Bioinformatics, Data Analysis, Transcriptomics, Proteomics, Metabolomics, Structure-Based Drug Design, Molecular Docking, Simulation Tools, Biotechnology, Food Safety, Systematic Reviews, Meta-Analysis.

Laboratory Techniques

Microbiology, Cell Culture, Biochemical Assays, DNA/RNA Extraction, PCR, Gel Electrophoresis, Western Blot, Microscopy, Chromatography, Mass Spectrometry, Medical Laboratory Diagnostics.

Data Analysis & Software

Bioinformatics Analysis, Data Mining, Statistical Analysis, Computational Analysis, Microsoft Office Suite.

Scientific Communication

Scientific Writing, Competitive Grant Writing, Peer Review, Academic Publishing, Conference Presentations, Technical Reports, Literature Reviews.

Leadership & Mentorship

Teaching Assistant, Student Supervision (MSc/PhD), Workshop Facilitation, Lab Mentoring, Proposal Writing Support, Grant Application Support, Lecturing, Project Coordination, Team Leadership, Outreach, Judge/Mentor.

Professional Development

Strategic Planning, Problem-Solving, Critical Thinking, Interdisciplinary Collaboration, Time Management, Project Management, Professional Credibility.

Interests

Research Focus

Protein structure-function analysis, Omics in pathogen studies, Cancer research (therapeutic targets, natural compounds), Antimicrobial resistance, 3D cell culture models, Natural product biosynthesis, Structure-based drug design, Biotechnology for sustainable agriculture and food safety.

Editorial Services

Reviewer (Bentham Science Publishers), Reviewer (International Journal of Environment and Climate Change), Reviewer (Journal of Advances in Biology & Biotechnology), Reviewer (Archives of Microbiology), Reviewer (BMC Research Notes), Reviewer Board Member (BP International Publishers).

Professional Associations

Member, South African Society of Microbiology, Candidate Member, South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP), Executive Member, African Phytopathology Group.