07/2025 — present
Scientist — Research & Development
TUNISTRONG Technologies Inc., PE, Canada in collaboration with University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI), PE, Canada
Performed QC-oriented analytical testing for material characterization, supporting industrial process development.
Researched innovative extraction of nanocrystalline cellulose and proteins from tunicates for value-added applications.
Conducted validated assays including HPLC purity analysis, LC-MS identification, FTIR functional group verification, and DLS particle sizing; collaborated with cross-functional teams to evaluate raw material specifications for production feasibility.
Analyzed data, prepared method development reports, and published research findings.
07/2024 — 06/2025
Postdoctoral Researcher
University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI), PE, Canada in collaboration with Atlantic Veterinary College, PEI, Canada
Conducted analytical testing of biological samples, including viability assays, ELISA quantification, and antimicrobial activity evaluation; executed validated QC assays for biomaterial and polymer-based formulations.
Developed polymer-based cryoprotectants that improved post-thaw viability of cells and tissues by 35%.
Designed and optimized self-assembling antimicrobial peptides for drug delivery and immunotherapy.
Analyzed and compiled data into structured technical reports for supervisory and regulatory review.
Partnered with the Atlantic Veterinary College and biotech collaborators to translate peptide research into industry applications.
09/2018 — 06/2024
Graduate Researcher
University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI), PEI, Canada
Performed routine analytical testing of synthesized peptides and polymers using HPLC, LC-MS, FTIR, and NMR.
Conducted cell-based assays including viability, cytotoxicity, and antimicrobial screening.
Executed method optimization and validation supporting research and biomaterials development.
Created antimicrobial and immunomodulatory peptides that were published in peer-reviewed journals.
Conducted mammalian and bacterial cell culture studies to validate therapeutic potential.
01/2023 — 05/2023
MITACS Lab2Market Researcher
In collaboration with UPEI and Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
Translated analytical research into commercially viable QC-relevant applications.
Collaborated with industry mentors to translate academic innovations into viable biotech commercialization strategies, ensuring scientific research was aligned with market demands and regulatory pathways.
Gained exposure to regulatory requirements and industry validation pathways.
I've supervised undergraduate and graduate students and technical staff through synthesis,
characterisation, and cell-culture work — including the part that matters most: teaching
researchers to write down what they did well enough that someone else can repeat it.
Lab demonstrator, organic chemistry, analytical chemistry, and cell biology
Student and technician onboarding, method training
Scientific writing and proposal review
During my BSc in Chemical Engineering at the University of Bahrain, I undertook an
internship as a trainee engineer at the Ministry of Works, Materials
Engineering Directorate.
This opportunity allowed me to work alongside experienced materials engineers and
technicians in specialized testing laboratories, where I participated in geotechnical and
materials testing for government construction projects to ensure compliance with technical
specifications and quality standards.
