Research Projects

Jan. 2025 – Present
Undergraduate Thesis Project — Lead Student Researcher, The Ohui Owusu Lab, Department of Theoretical and Applied Biology, KNUST

Project Title: Antibiotic Resistance of E. coli in Domestic Fowl and Poultry Fowl

Conducting a microbiological investigation into the patterns of antibiotic resistance in Escherichia coli strains isolated from domestic and poultry-reared birds.
Utilized classical biochemical techniques—including catalase, oxidase, citrate, and indole tests—to identify and characterize bacterial isolates based on their enzymatic and metabolic properties.
Applied the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method to assess antimicrobial susceptibility profiles against commonly used antibiotics.
Measured and analyzed inhibition zone diameters to evaluate resistance, following Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines.
Aimed at generating insights to guide antibiotic stewardship and assess zoonotic risks in poultry farming.

Project Title: Impacts of Mercury Exposure on Human Health

Investigated human health implications of mercury exposure in artisanal gold mining communities through a review of peer-reviewed epidemiological studies.
Analyzed a cross-sectional study of 343 gold miners, identifying that 46.6% exhibited occupational exposure to mercury.
Interpreted statistical tests, including Chi-square and bivariate analysis, to link mercury exposure with symptoms like numbness, rashes, and neurological issues.
Proposed interventions including public health education, PPE training, and environmental safety regulations.
Designed and presented a comprehensive research poster, earning an 'A' in Scientific Research and Communication through oral defense and written assessment.

Project Title: Ubiquitous Presence of Bacteria: An Environmental Exploration

Prepared and sterilized more than 40 petri dishes with Nutrient and Potato Dextrose Agar using 70% ethanol for equipment sanitation.
Collected environmental samples (lab air, outdoor air, soil, plants) and exposed plates for microbial culture.
Observed 100% microbial growth across all plates after 24–48 hours, confirming widespread bacterial and fungal presence.
Identified organisms such as Actinomyces, Staphylococcus, and Aspergillus, demonstrating environmental microbial diversity.
Recorded findings and supported analysis for future environmental microbiome studies.