Matthew Priestley
Dublin
Summary
Detail-oriented biological scientist with MSc in molecular biology and data analysis. Experienced in research integrity and scientific data evaluation, with proficiency in bioinformatics, R programming, and large dataset management. Focused on transcriptomics and omics-driven insights into disease mechanisms and treatment effects. Developing expertise in RNA-seq analysis and cloud-based bioinformatics tools to enhance clinical and translational research.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Quality Control Biochemist
Megazyme
06.2022 - 01.2024
- Performed biochemical and microbiological assays (HPLC, spectrophotometry, enzymatic tests) to validate quality of diagnostic testing kits.
- Managed technical report writing and lab records in ISO accredited GMP and GLP lab, ensuring compliance with strict QC protocols.
- Worked closely with chemists, pharmacologists and toxicologists to conduct complex research and gather data.
- Managed the procurement and maintenance of laboratory equipment, ensuring operational excellence and budget adherence.
- Utilised bioinformatics tools for the analysis and interpretation of DNA, RNA, and protein sequence data.
Research Integrity Specialist
Frontiers Research Publishing
01.2022 - 05.2022
- Curated and reviewed large scientific datasets and manuscripts to ensure compliance with research integrity and reporting standards
- Streamlined peer-review processes, improving turnaround times and maintaining high standards of research integrity.
- Reviewed manuscripts in genetics, oncology, and endocrinology journals, enhancing understanding of research integrity in these fields.
- Performed complex data analysis projects using salesforce, SQL, and Python to assess manuscript quality and metrics across diverse scientific submissions.
Genetics Research Assistant
University College Dublin
Dublin
08.2020 - 09.2021
- DNA extraction, PCR, Gel electrophoresis, molecular Cloning, Restriction mapping
- RNA extraction, cDNA synthesis, RT-PCR, qPCR
- Sequencing: Sanger sequencing, NGS, Transcriptome assembly
- Bioinformatics analysis using BLAST, ORF finding, Genome annotation, Multiple sequence alignment
- Thesis "identifying the autoflowering gene in Cannabis Sativa L."
Research Assistant
Trinity College Dublin
Dublin
09.2020 - 06.2020
- Applied organic and inorganic wet chemistry techniques in laboratory settings.
- Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), X-Ray Diffraction, performed Dynamic Light Scattering measurements of Sulfur Colloids
- Thesis "Designing, synthesising and purifying novel copper sulfide nanospheres for targeted drug delivery."
Education
MSc - Biomolecular Science and Bioinformatics
University College Dublin
Dublin, Ireland09-2021
BSc - Chemistry
Trinity College Dublin
Dublin, Ireland06-2020
Skills
- DNA/RNA extraction
- DNA extraction
- Molecular biology workflows
- Biological sample preparation
- Laboratory documentation
- Scientific data management
- Quality Control (HPLC, ELISA, RT-PCR, Protein/Enzymatic assays)
- Microbiology assays
- NG Sequencing
- Electrophoresis
- Molecular Cloning
- Bioinformatics (RNA-seq, differential expression, heatmaps and PCA)
- R (tidyverse, ggplot2, DESeq2)
- Intermediate SQL
- Microscopy
- X-Ray Diffraction
- Scanning Electron Microscopy
- Aseptic technique
- Scientific reporting
- Research collaboration
- Microbiology assays
- HPLC
- Spectrophotometry
- Protein/ Enzymatic assays
Certification
- Advanced SQL, DataCamp, 2026
- Python, SQL, Tableau for Data Science Professional Certificate, Coursera, 2026
- Time Management and Productivity, Alison, 2026
- First Aid certified
References
Available upon request
Personal Information
Hobbies: Music production, Reading, Hiking and birdwatching
Timeline
Quality Control Biochemist
Megazyme
06.2022 - 01.2024
Research Integrity Specialist
Frontiers Research Publishing
01.2022 - 05.2022
Research Assistant
Trinity College Dublin
09.2020 - 06.2020
Genetics Research Assistant
University College Dublin
08.2020 - 09.2021
MSc - Biomolecular Science and Bioinformatics
University College Dublin
BSc - Chemistry
Trinity College Dublin