Fariha Sharif has experience in laboratory work and customer service. She has worked as a laboratory assistant at Brunel University conducting research on DNA damage and cancer cell lines. She also has experience as a science technician and teaching assistant at secondary schools. Fariha holds an MSc in Molecular Medicine and Cancer Research from Brunel University and a BSc in Medical Biology also from Brunel University. She has strong laboratory skills and experience in techniques such as immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry, and cell culture.

1. Fariha Sharif
Work Experience
Brunel University January 2011
Laboratory Assistant – Parris Group, Brunel Institute for Cancer Genetics and Pharmacogenomics
(voluntary)
I am using immunohistochemistry techniques in order to locate DNA damage repair biomarkers.
Using multispectral imaging flow cytometry using the imagestream X. I am conducting a number of assays to
determine how different chemotherapeutic drugs work on various cell lines and this enables one to build a
quantitative picture for the DNA damage response of a particular cell line. This study will aim to shape future
lines of treatment for patients suffering from various cancers.
The Parris group’s primary aim is to identify and characterise new gene and molecular pathways that can be
used in novel therapeutic intervention.
Conducting clonogenic assays.
Tissue culture.
Capita Education December 2008- March 2009
Salvatorian College, Harrow Weald as a Science Technician.
Northolt High School, Northolt as a Teaching Assistant.
Assisted and prepared practical lessons for all science classes.
Prepared display materials for classrooms.
Prepared revision materials for classes.
Assisted teachers and pupils within the classroom.
Specsavers Opticians, Optical Assistant and Supervisor. (February 2005-September 2008)
Performed preliminary tests such pressure testing and visual fields tests.
Registered customers and arranged appointments.
Resolved customer complaints through customer troubleshooting.
Supervised team whilst manager is away.
Delivered outstanding customer service.
Training preparation and delivery
Installed online ordering system
World Duty Free- Heathrow Airport, Customer Services Assistant (July 2002-April 2004)
Delivered outstanding customer service.
Replenished displays.
Cashed up at the end of a working day.
Managed security
Education
MSc Molecular Medicine and Cancer Research, Brunel University: Merit. Sept 2006-Dec 2007
Developed strong analytical and research skills through devising presentations and projects in cancer related
topics.
Dissertation focused on investigating the effects of irradiation on transformed and normal cell lines. Various
aspects such as replicative potential and colony forming ability were taken used to complete the investigation.
Gathered a more in depth understanding of the pathway of cancer development and environmental effects on
the progression and increased risks of cancer.
Learned how various different treatments are developed in accordance with cancer history and background.
Developed and mastered skills on delivering excellent work under intense pressure.

2. BSc Medical Biology, Brunel University (2:2 with honours) Sept 2002-June 2006
Obtained a fundamental understanding of medical biological processes and the human body.
Modules Include: Cancer genetics, Cell Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry and Embryology.
Harlington Community School (Sept 1994- June 2001)
A Level: Chemistry C, I.T, D Physics E
GCSE’s 9 Passes A-D including Maths, Science and English
Languages and additional responsibilities
Urdu and Punjabi
Clean UK drivers licence with pass plus since 1999
Asdan Gold award- Curriculum enrichment programme
CCNA- Cisco Certified Network Associate course
Foundations of Science (Brunel University)
Harlington Community School Network Administraton
Criminal record check complete
Further skills
Laboratory skills: Spectroscopy Enzyme Practical, Acid-base properties of amino acids, DNA extraction,
Microscopy, PCR techniques, Assaying techniques, ECG monitoring, Microbiology problem solving. E.coli
marker transfer, ELISA, Trypanosome assay, Electron microscopy, microarray. Cell culturing and gene
transfection, clonogenic cell survival assays. FISH, general housekeeping of cells.
Strong team work ethic. Ability to lead a team and also take instructions from leaders.
Able to comfortably speak and present in front of a large audience size varying from 5 to 50 people from
senior lecturers to work colleagues.
Proficient in all Microsoft office packages and operating systems.
Further information
I have gained an in depth knowledge of research throughout my education and have followed this up gaining
experience as an internship placement which is currently ongoing with Dr Christopher Parris at Brunel University. I
feel that my initiative and persistence will enable me to secure a role in which I can utilise these skills to become a
valuable team member in my future position.
Referees
Available on request