Megan de Lange

I am a dedicated and high-achieving individual with a profound passion for biology and my academic journey reflects a relentless pursuit of knowledge, coupled with an unwavering commitment to excellence. With an extensive scientific background, my educational path has been marked by a profound drive to understand the intricacies of biology, a passion that fuels my quest for cutting-edge discoveries. 

My journey through the diverse realms of biology led me to a deep interest in Neuroscience and Neuropathology where I've cultivated a unique blend of scientific expertise and innovative thinking. This passion drove me to delve into intricate research projects, allowing me to explore the effects of a high-fat diet on neurodegeneration and oxidative stress in a Drosophila melanogaster Alzheimer’s disease model. In this pursuit, I harnessed a wide array of techniques, from confocal microscopy to biochemical assays, to delve deep into the complexities of brain structure and neurodegeneration.

My academic accomplishments are complemented by my achievements as a top hockey athlete, which have honed not only my teamwork skills, work ethic, and competitive drive but also my ability to thrive under pressure. These qualities, coupled with my scientific acumen, position me as a versatile and dynamic professional ready to tackle multifaceted challenges.

I am not only dedicated to my field; I am a relentless problem-solver, an enthusiastic collaborator, and a natural leader. My overarching goal is to excel in every endeavor I undertake, making significant contributions by consistently pushing the boundaries of innovation. Whether it's within the realm of molecular biology or any other field, I'm driven to bridge the gap between expertise and inventive thinking, working diligently to achieve excellence and drive impactful results.

I am now actively seeking new opportunities in scientific roles in both academia and more corporate settings. If your organization is looking for a dedicated researcher, a passionate problem-solver, and well-rounded expert in molecular and cellular biology, I welcome the opportunity to connect and explore how my diverse skills and expertise can contribute to your company's success. Let's embark on this journey of discovery together, whether it's in the realms of research, recruitment, or sales.

Laboratory Research Internship | University of the Witswatersrand Medical School, Johannesburg, South Africa | March –august 2022

• Gained valuable skills and experience in sleep fragmentation and deprivation research, including expertise in participant monitoring, sleep scoring, and project design. Played a crucial role in overseeing participants during their sleep and coordinating the necessary procedures once they woke to collect essential data. 

Hockey coach | St Mary’s School Waverley, Johannesburg, South Africa | 2022

• Led coaching for the U9, U12, U14 hockey teams, focusing skill enhancement and development. Significantly improved me leadership and communication skills. Gained expertise in providing tailored feedback to suit individual player’s needs. Served as a liaison with the head of hockey to ensure that our practices effectively covered the essential skills required for player development. 

BRAINterns Internship | Online – Lenox Hill Hospital, USA | 2020

• Acquired a comprehensive understanding of medicine by attending a wide range of online lectures covering various medical specialties and addressing current issues in human health. These covered biological phemomena and cases studies, current research and innovation, and the intersection of technology and healthcare which significantly broadened my knowledge and perspective. 

Recently completed a Master of Research in Neuroscience and Neuropathology at the University of Nottingham. 

Designed and conducted a year-long research project investigating the effect of a high-fat diet on neurodegeneration and oxidative stress in a Drosophila melanogaster Alzheimer’s disease model. Mastered Drosophila melanogaster brain dissection and immunohistochemistry techniques, enabling in-depth analysis of brain structure and neurodegeneration. Developed expertise in confocal microscopy, biochemical assays, fly line maintenance and more. 

Graduated with a cumulative average of 91% from Monmouth University in New Jersey, USA with a double major Bachelor of Science in Biology (with a concentration in molecular cell physiology) and Health Sciences. Extensive laboratory experience with two research projects: 

• Identifying Glutathione-S Transferase and its interacting partners in S2 and P2 subcellular fractions through a GST Pull-down assay using Glutathione Sepharose 4B (GSH) to isolate the GST and interacting proteins which were then separated by size through SDS-PAGE with a 4-20% acrylamide gel. 
• Isolating the 16s rRNA gene from bacteria taken from the skin and gut microbiome to analyse and sequence the bacterial species through transformation of the 16s rRNA gene into competent E. coli cells.

Notable subjects: Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Chemistry, Microbiology, Biostatistics, Genetics and Organic and Inorganic Chemistry