Zihao Li
Dublin,Ireland
Summary
Seeking opportunities to work in pharmaceutical manufacturing, process development, validation or quality control environments. Enjoy working as part of a team but also have ability and experience of working independently.
Background in pharmaceutical engineering and scientific research with experience in developing and progressing new and innovative products. Skilled in R&D programmes, with a strong technical foundation in experimental design, execution, data analysis and technical writing, and experience working in a university spin-out. I bring foundation knowledge and key skills including adaptability, flexibility and an eagerness to learn new skills.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
4
4
years of post-secondary education
Work history
Research Assistant
OncoLize B.V./ School of Pharmacy & Biomolecular Sciences, RCSI
Dublin
07.2023 - 12.2025
- I was an RA for a spin-out company based in RCSI called OncoLize, developing a novel stimuli-responsive hydrogel technology ’ChemoGell’ for intra-tumoural treatment of solid tumours.
- Optimised formulations through the design and execution of lab-based activities, utilising statistical DoE’s for data-driven process and formulation improvements.
- Spearheaded a biomaterial hydrogel (a modified form of natural gelatin) digestion& Gemcitabine extraction techniques, achieving the Recovery% over 60%, ensuring reproducibility while maintaining the properties and characteristics. Supported development and evaluation of a novel 3D model for in vitro evaluation of drug release. Designed and validated in vitro partition model of combining spheroids within biomaterial hydrogel to help inform in vivo PK/PD studies and clinical translation.
- Worked collaboratively in a team of junior scientists, building technical capability and personal management skills.
- Delivered clear technical reports and presentations to technical and non-technical stakeholders, translating complex experimental data into actionable insights for strategic decision making.
- Culturing BxPc3 cells successfully in long term with good cells status and sustained sterility.
- Facilitated technology transfer of OncoLize technology to their Netherlands site and CMO.
Student Ambassador
Technological University of Shannon: Midlands
Athlone, Ireland
08.2022 - 09.2022
- Arranged and help international students' arrival, living details and accommodation.
High School Math Teacher
LiJue Education Institute
Hefei
03.2021 - 07.2021
- Daily teaching and well communicating of senior students and the final perpetration for the entrance exams.
- Analysed exam papers and summarised student’s mistakes, with students achieving an average score of 120/150 in Chinese National College Entrance Examination.
Education
MSc -
Trinity College Dublin
Dublin, Ireland 09.2022 - 09.2023
BSc -
Technological University of Shannon: Midlands
Westmeath, Ireland 09.2021 - 06.2022
Hefei Normal University
Hefei, China 09.2018 - 06.2021
Skills
- Problem Solving: Developed exceptional problem-solving skills throughout academic and professional career within a range of diverse roles Skilled in analysing complex issues, developing innovative solutions, and implementing effective strategies to overcome obstacles through risk assessments and data-driven optimisation Proven track record of efficiently resolving issues under pressure and adapting to changing circumstances to achieve desired outcomes
- Project Management: Experienced in project management, supervisory experience in a lab environment, prioritising tasks, and ensuring high-quality results
- Material Characterisation: Extensive experience in applying characterisation techniques, including IR, UV, DSC, HPLC, SEM, Confocal and rheology, to evaluate the thermal, structural, mechanical, and chemical properties of polymers Skilled in optimise formulations, validate their performance, and strongly good in reproducibility during all steps of manufacturing
- Cell Culture: Proficient in aseptic techniques and cell culture methodologies, with hands-on experience in cultivating various cell lines for research purposes Skilled in the establishment and maintenance of cell cultures using adherent cell lines
- Communication: Possess strong communication skills, demonstrated through clear presentation of complex experimental data and technical findings to both scientific and non-technical stakeholders at OncoLize
- Team Work: Demonstrated strong teamwork skills through active participation in collaborative projects and group activities within academic and professional settings Experienced in contributing creative ideas, supporting team initiatives, and carrying out jobs reliably Proficient in effectively communicating and collaborating with team members to achieve common goals
Timeline
Research Assistant
OncoLize B.V./ School of Pharmacy & Biomolecular Sciences, RCSI
07.2023 - 12.2025
MSc -
Trinity College Dublin
09.2022 - 09.2023
Student Ambassador
Technological University of Shannon: Midlands
08.2022 - 09.2022
BSc -
Technological University of Shannon: Midlands
09.2021 - 06.2022
High School Math Teacher
LiJue Education Institute
03.2021 - 07.2021
Hefei Normal University
09.2018 - 06.2021