Derek Meng

McGill University 2019 – 2025

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Chemistry

Thesis: Total Synthesis of Lignan Natural Products and Their Unique Cheminformatic Biomes

University of Ottawa 2013 – 2019

Honours Bachelor of Science (BSc), Biopharmaceutical Sciences (Medicinal Chemistry)

Honours Thesis: The Rational Design, Synthesis and Evaluation of Isoform Specific Lipoxygenase Inhibitors

Colonel By Secondary School 2009 – 2013

International Baccalaureate Diploma with Honours

Patent Examiner 2025 – Present

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada – Canadian Intellectual Property Office

• Conduct in-depth evaluations of chemical, biochemical, and agricultural data within patent filings to assess prior and non-prior art ensuring compliance with the Patent Act and office practices.
• Author detailed technical reports and office actions addressing patentability criteria, clearly conveying complex scientific and legal information to applicants and stakeholders.

Environmental Emergency Officer 2024 – 2025

Environment and Climate Change Canada – National Environmental Emergencies Center

• Coordinated emergency preparedness initiatives, including partner meetings and response activities assessing chemical and oil spill impacts.
• Collected and analyzed environmental samples such as water, soil, hydrocarbons, and hazardous and noxious substances (HNS).
• Managed equipment budgets for main and regional offices, ensuring cost-effective resource allocation and financial stewardship.
• Provided expert advice to management on environmental emergency response strategies within the Hazardous and Noxious Substances Program under the Oceans Protection Plan.
• Collaborated with internal and external stakeholders to develop and implement comprehensive emergency response plans.
• Led detailed chemical composition and formulation research and reporting to assess potential environmental risks and product efficacy.

Graduate Student, PhD 2019 – 2025

McGill University – Lumb Lab

• Conducted multi-step, decagram-scale total synthesis of lignan natural products, including purification and structural characterization.
• Developed and executed cheminformatic analyses on natural product libraries, employing numerical modeling and large dataset evaluation.
• Managed multiple concurrent research projects, ensuring progress and troubleshooting experimental procedures and equipment.
• Worked both independently and as part of collaborative research teams.
• Demonstrated strong communication skills through conference presentations and academic writing.
• Mentored undergraduate students and new lab members, providing training on experimental techniques and data analysis.

Teaching Assistant 2019 – 2022

McGill University – CHEM112, CHEM122, CHEM224

• Facilitated undergraduate laboratory sessions, providing guidance on experiments, procedures, and evaluations.
• Mentored students individually to support their academic progress and lab skills development.
• Assisted the professor with course preparation, grading, and communication with students.
• Collaborated with faculty to enhance the quality of lab sessions and improve course outcomes.
• Partnered with faculty to redesign lab sessions and ensure effective learning despite COVID-19 disruptions.

Intern in Medicinal Chemistry 2016

Vertex Pharmaceuticals

• Contributed to the design, structure-activity relationship (SAR), synthesis, and discovery of novel analogues and lead compounds for the treatment of cystic fibrosis.
• Worked in an interdisciplinary team with biologists to develop novel compounds with optimized pharmacological properties, consistently meeting project deadlines and demonstrating strong time management.
• Gained extensive experience using and troubleshooting modern analytical equipment (HPLC, UPLC-MS, GC-MS, Microplate Photometer, UV-Vis Spectrophotometer, BAS Potentiostat), as well as NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry.

Water Polo Coach and Programs Coordinator 2016 – 2019

Titans Water Polo Club

• Coached athletes during practices, scrimmages, and provincial-level competitions to develop skills and team strategy.
• Managed administrative duties including recruitment, expense reporting, equipment inventory, and scheduling.
• Advised head coach on coaching methods to improve team performance and athlete development.

Undergraduate Research Assistant 2014 – 2018

University of Ottawa – Pratt Lab

• Investigated the role of in-situ acid formation in hindered amine light stabilizers’ inhibition of hydrocarbon autoxidation, leading to the discovery of a novel mechanism of action.
• Analyzed data and presented findings at team meetings and scientific conferences, demonstrating strong communication and presentation skills.
• Maintained detailed laboratory notebooks and records, ensuring accurate documentation of experiments and results.

Summer Research Student 2013 – 2014

University of Ottawa – Lan Lab

• Utilized membrane fabrication and characterization techniques to analyze the impact of molecular weight on PVDF composite membranes.
• Conducted vacuum membrane distillation experiments to evaluate membrane performance.
• Applied analytical methods to assess membrane structure and functionality.

Aquatic Instructor 2012 – 2019

City of Ottawa

• Designed and implemented structured lesson plans to facilitate skill development and learning progression in diverse student groups.
• Prepared detailed evaluation reports to assess learner progress and provide constructive feedback.
• Monitored and maintained a safe learning environment by enforcing safety protocols and supervising student activities.
• Adapted instructional methods to accommodate varied learning styles and needs, enhancing student engagement and outcomes.

Aquatic Lifeguard 2012 – 2019

City of Ottawa

• Oversaw swimmer safety by monitoring activities and enforcing facility rules, demonstrating vigilance and responsibility in a dynamic environment.
• Implemented emergency protocols according to the city’s action plans, ensuring preparedness and effective response.
• Conducted routine inspections and maintenance of aquatic facilities, maintaining a safe and clean environment.

Information Desk Clerk 2012 – 2016

The Ottawa Hospital – General Campus

• Provided courteous and informative assistance to patients, visitors, and staff, directing them to appropriate departments and services.
• Managed incoming phone inquiries, offering timely and accurate information or transferring calls to relevant personnel.
• Maintained up-to-date knowledge of hospital facilities and procedures to support effective visitor navigation and enhance overall patient experience.

Volunteer 2010 – 2019

Perley Rideau Veterans’ Health Center

• Assisted residents with daily activities, fostering a supportive and compassionate environment.
• Organized recreational and social activities to promote engagement and well-being among veterans.
• Collaborated with healthcare staff to ensure resident comfort and respond promptly to their needs.