Melanie De Silva
Melbourne,VIC
Summary
Detail-driven Research Assistant with background in executing complex experiments, data collection and analysis. Displayed strengths include strong analytical skills, proficiency in research methodologies and commitment to ensuring accuracy of data interpretation. Recognised for strong work ethic, adaptability, and exceptional interpersonal skills. Works effectively unsupervised or as part of a team. Previous work has led to valuable contributions towards scientific advancements, showcasing ability to excel at collaboration with peers from diverse, multidisciplinary backgrounds.
Overview
23
23
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Research Assistant -National Drug Discovery Centre
NDDC-WEHI
Melbourne, Victoria
05.2019 - 12.2024
- Planned and performed drug screening experiments and campaigns using the latest in robotic high-throughput lab technologies to find novel cancer-fighting drugs.
- Troubleshooted problems with experiments and instruments to ensure accurate and efficient data production.
- Used data analysis programs such as Prism,Spotfire and Abase to analyse screening data.
- Presented assay development and screening data to team member and collaborators.
- Proficiently utilised Microsoft Office programs such as Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
- Fostered strong relationships with colleagues, collaborators, and stakeholders through effective communication and teamwork.
Senior Research Assistant
Cancer Therapeutics (CTx)-WEHI
Parkville, Victoria
09.2011 - 05.2019
- Conducted and meticulously documented research experiments in the area of cancer drug discovery.
- Coordinated meetings between researchers, external collaborators, and pharmaceutical companies.
- Attended conferences to present posters and findings from completed studies.
- Kept current with workplace values and best practices.
- Mentored and onboarded new staff members.
- Co-authored peer-reviewed journal articles.
Medical Researcher
Novartis Institute for Biomedical Research
Boston, USA, Massachusetts
01.2009 - 08.2010
- Executed experiments using scientific robotics to facilitate drug development for diverse health conditions.
- Used data analysis programs such as Aeos and Helios to understand large data sets generated in the lab.
- Organised and participated in meetings with pharmaceutical companies regarding drug development plans.
- Attended conferences and seminars both locally and in various US cities to stay informed of current drug development studies.
- Developed and maintained good relationships with suppliers and robotic engineers.
- Participated in vendor evaluation processes based on criteria such as quality, cost effectiveness.
- Co-authored peer-review journal articles.
Senior Technical Scientist
The Broad Institute, Harvard University
Boston, USA, Massachusetts
03.2007 - 01.2009
- Managed multiple laboratory tasks simultaneously while meeting tight deadlines.
- Assisted collaborators to conduct and troubleshoot their drug screening experiments.
- Analyzed large datasets using various statistical software such as Abase
- Mentored junior colleagues on topics related to technical aspects of conducting research studies.
- Organized events to welcome new staff members into the organization and introduce them to coworkers.
- Conducted lab tours for visiting scientists and donors.
Senior Research Assistant
Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health
Parkville, Victoria
03.2004 - 09.2006
- Conducted experiments to study brain development in juvenile mice.
- Set up, calibrated, and maintained laboratory research equipment.
- Participated in team meetings to discuss progress on ongoing projects or brainstorm ideas for future endeavors.
- Worked efficiently as part of a multidisciplinary team.
- Co-authored peer-review journal articles.
Research Assistant
University of Melbourne-Department of Pathology
Parkville, Vic
11.2001 - 03.2004
- Conducted FISH, CGH and chromosomal karyotyping to discover new tumour suppressors and oncogenes in human breast cancer samples.
- Conducted literature reviews to research up-to-date laboratory procedures and findings.
- Maintained accurate records of research activities and results.
- Co-authored peer-review journal articles.
Education
Bachelor of Science
University of Melbourne
Parkville, VIC01-2001
Skills
- Deadline-Oriented Time Management
- Effective Team Member and Independent Contributor
- Multitasking Abilities
- Experimental problem-solving
- Analytical thinking
- Team-building skills
- Mentoring students
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Friendly, positive attitude
Affiliations
- Planning customised holidays for myself, family, friends and work colleagues.
- Team Manager for my son's Tennis Team.
- Travelling to Australia's best beaches as outlined in the book "best beCHES"
Accomplishments
2021:
2015: CTx Outstanding Achievement Award: PRMT5 project
2010: Novartis Individual Award for outstanding effort and commitment on the CLiP Project
2010: Team Award for excellence and outstanding productivity for the CLiP project..
Languages
Malay
Limited
Italian
Limited
Certification
- Certification for Project Management Practitioner (AIPM)-2019
- Certificate IV in Interior decoration (Open Colleges)-2018
- Volunteer and fundraiser for local Animal Shelter (SCAR)
Scientific Journal Publications
Discovery of a highly potent, selective, orally bioavailable inhibitor of KAT6A/B histone acetyltransferases with efficacy against KAT6A-high ER+ breast cancer.
Sharma S, et al. Cell Chem Biol. 2023 Oct 19;30(10):1191-1210.e20.
HBO1 is required for the maintenance of leukaemia stem cells.
MacPherson L. et al. Nature. 2020 Jan;577(7789):266-270.
Addendum: The Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia enables predictive modelling of anticancer drug sensitivity, Barretina J, eNature. 2019 Jan;565(7738):E5-E6.
Inhibitors of histone acetyltransferases KAT6A/B induce senescence and arrest tumour growth.
Baell JB, et al. Nature. 2018 Aug;560(7717):253-257.
Discovery and SAR of novel pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidines as inhibitors of CDK9. Phillipson LJ, et al. Med Chem. 2015 Oct 1;23(19):6280-96.
The Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia enables predictive modelling of anticancer drug sensitivity. Barretina J,et al. Nature. 2012 Mar 28;483(7391):603-7.
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Research Assistant -National Drug Discovery Centre
NDDC-WEHI
05.2019 - 12.2024
Senior Research Assistant
Cancer Therapeutics (CTx)-WEHI
09.2011 - 05.2019
Medical Researcher
Novartis Institute for Biomedical Research
01.2009 - 08.2010
Senior Technical Scientist
The Broad Institute, Harvard University
03.2007 - 01.2009
Senior Research Assistant
Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health
03.2004 - 09.2006
Research Assistant
University of Melbourne-Department of Pathology
11.2001 - 03.2004
Bachelor of Science
University of Melbourne
Similar Profiles
Oorvashi Roy PuliOorvashi Roy Puli
Project Manager at Walter Eliza Hall Research Institute (WEHI)Project Manager at Walter Eliza Hall Research Institute (WEHI)
LENIN KEMMERLENIN KEMMER
Intern (NYSC SERVICE) at NDDCIntern (NYSC SERVICE) at NDDC
John LatuilaJohn Latuila
Carpenter at Jarvis McCleanCarpenter at Jarvis McClean
JOANNE McMANUSJOANNE McMANUS
Legal Assistant at Madgwicks LawyersLegal Assistant at Madgwicks Lawyers
Farzana TemoriFarzana Temori
Picker Packer at Maihan BakeryPicker Packer at Maihan Bakery