Nial Harding

Nial Harding Dyslexic Thinker experienced in Analytical Chemistry and Project Management Johannesburg, Gauteng 2092-- I am a strategic and innovative professional with a strong aptitude for problem-solving and efficiency improvement. As a Dyslexic Thinker, I bring a unique perspective, enabling me to analyse complex challenges, identify root causes, and drive effective solutions. With a solid foundation in analytical chemistry, I have applied my expertise across various industries, including academia, chemical manufacturing, forensic toxicology, drug discovery, and pharmaceuticals. I have specialised in LC-MS method development and have extensive experience in R&D, ensuring precision and reliability in analytical applications. Beyond technical expertise, I have developed strong project management and systems thinking skills, allowing me to optimise processes, enhance productivity, and contribute to successful project outcomes. I am committed to sharing my knowledge and collaborating with teams to drive innovation and excellence. Willing to relocate: Anywhere Work Experience Director/Owner D'Nial & Sleuthdog-Cape Town, Western Cape January 2021 to Present Leading a multidisciplinary team focused on innovation and problem-solving through morphological analysis. Responsible for strategic leadership and ensuring high-quality project delivery and client change management services. • Spearheaded project management initiatives, improving operational efficiency and team collaboration. • Provided leadership on complex problem-solving models that bridged gaps between disciplines. Deputy Responsible Person and Senior Analyst Sedek Agrikem Laboratories-Pretoria, Gauteng August 2018 to May 2020 Analysis of quality control samples for the pharmaceutical industry, using HPLC-UV and HPLC-PDA. Method development for pharmaceuticals and herbal product analysis in a GMP environment. Consultant Freelance Work-Pretoria, Gauteng October 2017 to July 2018 Advice on project management methodologies, practices and concepts. Laboratory process definition and analysis. Subject matter expert on analytical chemistry. Locum analytical chemist. Analytical Team Lead and LC-MS Specialist CSIR-Pretoria, Gauteng February 2007 to October 2017 Served as a subject matter expert in analytical chemistry, specialising in LC-MS method development for the characterisation of complex plant extracts in Natural Products and Drug Discovery projects. Provided key analytical insights to support research initiatives and drive scientific advancements. Key Achievements: • Co-authored three peer-reviewed articles. • Generated LC-MS/MS data utilised by over 15 MSc students and more than 7 PhD students. • Contributed to a patent filing based on data acquired from my LC-MS/MS system. Additional Responsibilities: Project Management: • Developed research concepts and wrote project proposals. • Led project planning, including Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) and Critical Path Method (CPM). • Managed project budgets and conducted risk assessments (SHE). • Served as a Building Evacuation Coordinator. • Participated in the evaluation of Portfolio, Program, and Project Management (PPPM) software packages. Special Projects: • Conceptualized and developed a structural elucidation facility, identifying ACD Labs Structural Elucidator as a core tool and independently managing tender specifications and training. • Developed and documented tender specifications for analytical equipment, including SQD and MV-10 ASFE. • Designed and specified requirements for a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS). • Founded the CSIR Analytical Chemistry Forum, fostering collaboration across business and operating units to enhance R&D project support. Martial Arts Instructor International Tai Chi Society and Yuishinkai Kobujutsu-Johannesburg, Gauteng January 1997 to April 2011 Principle Forensic Analyst National Department of Health-Johannesburg, Gauteng 1998 to 2007 Conducted chemical investigations in cases of unknown causes of death, with a specialisation in cases involving herbal/traditional medicine usage, drugs of abuse, and drug-facilitated sexual assault. Applied advanced analytical techniques to support forensic casework and research. Key Achievements: • Pioneered the transition from liquid-liquid extraction to Solid Phase Extraction (SPE) for improved efficiency and accuracy. • Led the automation of SPE extractions, enhancing laboratory workflows. • Spearheaded the implementation of a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) to streamline forensic case management. • Presented casework internationally at the TIAFT Melbourne Meeting (2003). • Selected as a reviewer for the Journal of Forensic Science International. • Invited to speak at the Young Scientists Symposium at the Joint FBI/SOFT/TIAFT Meeting (Washington, 2004) and accepted as a platform speaker for the main conference. • Independently conceptualised and organised the first TIAFT Forensic Toxicology Workshop in Africa. • Presented a proposal, sponsored by Sandton Convention Centre and Johannesburg Tourism, to host the 2008 TIAFT Meeting in Johannesburg. • Co-authored three scientific publications in forensic toxicology. Chief Chemist Akulu Marchon-Johannesburg, Gauteng June 1996 to December 1996 Responsible for the testing of the final products and assisting with problems on the plant Laboratory Analyst AECI Limited-Modderfontein, Gauteng March 1991 to April 1996 • The laboratory provided analytical services to the various manufacturing plants on the Modderfontein site. My role was as a QC/QA chemical analyst • The Modderfontein factory was identified as a National Key Point. I fulfilled a secondary function as the Intelligence Officer at the Modderfontein Commando. In this role, I provided input to security operations e.g. counter-intelligence and military support during violent industrial actions. Junior Technician Technikon Witwatersrand-Johannesburg, Gauteng January 1989 to January 1991 Oversaw the organisation and coordination of chemistry laboratories, supporting academic staff in delivering practical sessions for students across multiple levels. Assumed full laboratory management responsibilities in 1990 following the resignation of the laboratory manager. Key Responsibilities: • Managed nine laboratories, including wet chemistry, organic chemistry, and instrumental analysis labs (AA, GC, GC-MS, XRF, Arc & Spark). • Supported approximately 800 students weekly across Pre-Tech, undergraduate, and advanced chemistry courses. • Assisted academic staff in preparing and conducting laboratory practicals. • Procured laboratory supplies, managed stock control, and ensured resource availability. • Maintained and serviced critical analytical instrumentation, including GC, AA, XRF, and LC. • Supervised cleaning staff and ensure compliance with laboratory safety standards. Education Certificate in Advanced Project Management Damelin School of Business - Johannesburg, Gauteng January 2006 to June 2006 Advanced Project Management techniques and methodologies based on PMI practises Diploma in Fundamentals of Project Management Damelin School of Business - Johannesburg, Gauteng July 2005 to December 2005 Foundational theory of Project Management based on PMI practises Certificate in Quantification University of Johannesburg - Johannesburg, ZA 1996 National Diploma (3 year qualification) in Analytical Chemistry University of Johannesburg - Johannesburg, Gauteng July 1988 to December 1992 A three-year qualification consisting of 3 x 6-month semesters of theoretical study alternating with 3 x 6-month semesters of experiential work in industry Skills • critical Thinking (10+ years) • Process Improvement (10+ years) • Communication (10+ years) • Problem solving (10+ years) • Project Management (10+ years) • Connecting (10+ years) • Analytical Chemistry (10+ years) Languages • English - Fluent Links https://www.linkedin.com/in/nial-harding-knowledgebridge/ Military Service Branch: Army Intelligence Service Country: South Africa Rank: Lieutenant July 1986 to November 1994 Completed mandatory military service and progressed through specialised training and leadership roles in military intelligence, supporting key operations and strategic initiatives. Key Roles & Responsibilities: • Basic Training: Completed at 7 SAI Battalion. • Junior Leadership & Specialized Training: Selected for Junior Leadership School (JLS) at the South African Intelligence School in Kimberley, earning a commission and transferring to Witwatersrand Command (1986 – 1987). • Intelligence Officer – Communication Operations (Own Forces): Served with Group 18, Wit Command (1987 – 1988). • Intelligence Officer – Johannesburg West Commando (1989 – 1991). • Intelligence Officer – Modderfontein Commando (1991 – 1994). Operational Deployments: • Conducted reconnaissance and manned observation posts during the burial of Chris Hani to support security operations. • Served as a Military Liaison Officer at Johannesburg International Airport during the inauguration of President Nelson Mandela. Commendations: Fax Transmission S A POLICE SERVICE PRIVATE BAG X20525 9300 BLOEMFONTEIN FREE STATE TEL- / FAX.05I- To: The Head Toxicology Forensic Chemistry Laboratory 110 Joubertstr.Johannesburg FOY attention: The Head of Toxicology, Mr Paul Steenkamp Fax Nr.: OII- Pages: I including covering sheet Sender: The Commander Detective Service (Park Road) Date:- Dealt with by: Senior Superintendent Otto Subject: APPRECIATION FOR GOOD SERVICES RENDERED: MRN M HARDING Message: 1. This office would like to express our sincere appreciation and gratitudе towards Mr N M Harding from your office for the good services rendered by him. 2. Mr Harding went out of his way to assist us with all the necessary tests that had to be done in regard to the shooting incident that took place at the Tempe Army Base in Bloemfontein recently. 3. With this thorough service we will be able to finalise the case docket for decision by the Director of Public Prosecutions before the end of this month. 4. He is indeed a very good example for his colleagues and your office can be very proud to have such a good and loyal employee in the name of Mr Nial Harding. Please submit a copy of this letter to Mr Harding, and thanks once again. Senior Superintendent Otto Commander of Detective Service, Park road Patents The use of an extract of helichrysum, for the treatment of hiv/aids (#ZA WO- A1) https://patentimages.storage.googleapis.com/11/2f/23/edcf0814d0ce4a/WO-A1.pdf June 2009 Abstract The invention provides the use of an extract of a plant of the genus Helichrysum, the extract including at least three compounds selected from 3-caffeoylquinic acid (3- chlorogenic acid), 5-caffeoylquinic acid (5-chlorogenic acid), 1,3-di-O-caffeoyl quinic acid, 1,5-di-O-caffeoylquinic acid, 1-methoxy-oxalyl-3,5-diO-caffeoylquinic acid and kaempferol-3-glucuronic acid in the preparation of a medicament for one or both of the management and treatment of HIV/AIDS. Publications Protective Roles of Monsonia angustifolia and Its Active Compounds in Experimental Models of Alzheimer's Disease. https://www.researchgate.net/ publication/-_Protective_Roles_of_Monsonia_angustifolia_and_Its_Active_Compounds_in_Experimental_Models April 2017 This article is the result of collaborative research between research Institutions in Korea and CSIR Biosciences. Chemical profiling with cytokine stimulating investigations of Sutherlandia frutescens. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S- March 2013 Abstract Sutherlandia frutescens, one of the medicinal plants of southern Africa, has been widely used to boost the immune system by various ethnic groups. This study aims to provide initial scientific evidence for in vitro immune modulating activities of extracts of S. frutescens on cytokines, including interleukins 4, 6, 8, 10, 12p70 and TNF produced by the HL60 cell lines, as well as to identify possible compounds present therein. This will assist in guiding further studies to an active compound. The chemical profile of extracts, fractions and compounds was determined using high performance liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. Results from the initial in vitro experiments conducted indicated that extracts from S. frutescens possessed immune modulating as well as anti-inflammatory activities. This in vitro study showed that an ethanolic extract appeared to recruit the various inflammatory cytokines to the site of infection upon stimulation with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate, where essentially the nonpolar compounds present in the ethanol extract contributed to most of the activity observed for this extract. Soldier Systems, Chapter 3 of proceedings presented by CSIR for the Technology Work Session for the SA Army January 2012 A publication prepared by the Soldier Systems Research Group, CSIR DPSS, evaluating systems and equipment that was commercially available for the SANDF in their role of protecting the land borders of South Africa Investigation of in vitro and in vivo anti-asthmatic properties of Siphonochilus aethiopicus. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/-_Investigation_of_in_vitro_and_in_vivo_antiasthmatic_properties_of_Siphonochilus_aethiopicus January 2010 Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the lungs, characterized by increased sensitivity to bronchoconstriction associated with infiltration of immune cells, mucus hypersecretion and structural remodelling of the airways. In South Africa, the indigenous plant Siphonochilus aethiopicus, is used by traditional health practitioners to treat colds, wheezing of the chest, coughs, influenza, sinus problems and mild asthma. In this study we aimed to investigate the potential anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties of S. aethiopicus in vitro and its efficacy in a mouse model of allergic asthma. The dried and powdered S. aethiopicus plant material was extracted separately with organic solvents (diethyl ether, ethanol) and water. Dried extracts as well as a purified furanoterpenoid compound present in the extracts were screened in vitro in a glucocorticoid and histamine H(1) receptor binding assay and a phosphodiesterase IV enzyme inhibition assay. Extracts were also evaluated for efficacy against ovalbumin (OVA)-induced allergic airway disease in mice. Biological assaying of extracts of the plant and the isolated furanoterpenoid showed significant in vitro inhibition of glucocorticoid and histamine H(1) receptor binding and phosphodiesterase IV activity, supporting a possible anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic and bronchodilatory effect. Administration of S. aethiopicus extracts to OVA-sensitized and challenged mice significantly reduced lung inflammation and the percentage of eosinophils in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid but did not influence airway hyperreactivity. This study provides evidence that S. aethiopicus has anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties in vitro and in vivo. These findings may support anecdotal accounts of its effectiveness against asthma, sinusitis, colds and flu. Determination of atractyloside in Callilepis laureola using solid-phase extraction and liquid chromatography-atmospheric pressure ionisation mass spectrometry http://www.elsevier.com/journals/journal-of-chromatography-a-with-journal-of-chromatography-bcombined-subscription/fs00-0049 January 2004 A selective analytical method based on high-performance liquid chromatography, combined with atmospheric pressure ionisation mass spectrometry, was developed for the detection of atractyloside. The analysis was performed on an Xterra Phenyl column utilising a gradient elution profile and a mobile phase consisting of 10 mM aqueous ammonium acetate buffer-methanol-acetonitrile. The calibration curve of the method (1 ng/ml-160 microg/ml) was best described by a second order polynomial function (r2 = 0.998) but displayed good linearity in the range of 100 ng/ml-1 microg/ml (r2 = 0.999). The limit of detection for the atractyloside standard was determined and found to be 100 pg/ml and the limit of quantification of atractyloside in tuber matrix was found to be 250 pg/ml. The relative standard deviation of the method was on average below 5% (n = 8). The method was successfully applied to the analysis of Callilepis laureola tubers and unknown powdered samples for the presence of atractyloside. Fatal Datura poisoning: Identification of atropine and scopolamine by high performance liquid chromatography / photodiode array / mass spectrometry https://www.researchgate.net/ publication/-_Fatal_Datura_poisoning_Identification_of_atropine_and_scopolamine_by_high_performance_liquid_c January 2004 A forensic method comprising solid phase extraction and HPLC analysis was developed for the detection and confirmation of atropine and scopolamine, the main toxic alkaloids of Datura stramonium and Datura ferox. This method allowed the direct coupling of an electrospray (ZMD) mass selective detector to the HPLC system. Under these conditions, atropine and scopolamine were well separated from other components and detected on the PDA (LOD = 1 microg/ml) and ZMD (LOD(atropine) = 10 pg/ ml; LOD(scopolamine) = 100 pg/ml) detectors. Four geographically isolated populations of each of D. stramonium and D. ferox were analysed for seed alkaloids and it was found that the two species were diagnostically different in their atropine-scopolamine ratios. The optimised HPLC method was used to analyse three viscera samples of an adult Caucasian male whose death was ascribed to a fatal heart attack. Atropine and scopolamine were detected in the stomach and its contents, which contained Datura seeds. The chemical profile of the seeds found in the stomach contents was similar to those from four geographically different D. ferox plants. Identification of atractyloside by LC-ESI-MS in alleged herbal poisonings https://www.researchgate.net/publication/-_Identification_of_atractyloside_by_LC-ESIMS_in_alleged_herbal_poisonings January 2004 An LC-MS screening method was developed to detect the presence of atractyloside (ATR), the toxic principle of a commonly used medicinal plant in South Africa, Callilepis laureola, in biological matrices such as body fluids and human viscera. Additional Information SPECIALIST SKILLS AND ATTRIBUTES Analytical Chemistry Knowledge bridging Innovation Planning R&D Project Management Visual Planning LC-MS Strategy Interventions Process Improvement Communication Ideation Initiative Science Method Development Task Focus Facilitation Leadership Proactive