Silas Kaluba Chotwe
Education Researcher
Bozeman
Summary
Biology educator, plant sciences researcher, and academic leader with 15+ years of experience in STEM teaching, research, and curriculum innovation. Currently a Research Assistant II in the Montana State University Seed Potato Certification Program, contributing to U.S. agricultural security by ensuring disease-free, high-quality seed potatoes. Former Head of Biology Department at Zambia’s national STEM high school for girls. Expertise in student retention research, STEM curriculum design, HR administration, and cross-cultural education, with published international conference papers in AI and STEM education.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
1
1
Language
Work History
Research Assistant II
Montana State University, Seed Potato Certification Program
01.2022 - Current
- Collected and processed leaf samples for Potato Virus Y (PVY) detection.
- Assisted with spring and summer leaf testing, and field inspections of registered seed lots.
- Contributed to national pest and disease surveys supporting U.S. agricultural resilience.
- Participated in tissue culture plantlet and micro-tuber maintenance, ensuring clean seed stock for growers.
Graduate Assistant – Office of Student Engagement
Montana State University
01.2022 - 2024
- Supported 200+ student organizations in funding, governance, and engagement.
- Conducted research on extracurricular participation and retention, presenting findings at graduate symposia.
- Co-organized large-scale leadership and community events.
- Collaborated with faculty members on research projects, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in their respective fields.
Assistant Human Resource Officer
Ndola Girls’ National STEM Secondary School
01.2020 - 01.2022
- Supported the development and implementation of HR initiatives and systems.
- Provided counseling on policies and procedures.
- Involved in recruitment: prepared job descriptions, posted ads, and managed hiring.
- Created and implemented onboarding plans.
- Developed training and development programs.
- Assisted in performance management processes.
- Supported management of disciplinary and grievance issues.
- Maintained employee records according to policy and legal requirements.
- Reviewed employment and working conditions to ensure legal compliance.
Head of Biology Department & Teacher
Ndola Girls’ National STEM Secondary School
2013 - 01.2022
- Directed departmental teaching and curriculum implementation for Biology.
- Taught 1,000+ students, preparing young women for STEM higher education and careers.
- Served as Assistant Career Guidance Counselor, boosting university entry rates in science fields.
- Mentored new teachers, sharing best practices and providing guidance to help them adapt to their new roles successfully.
Teaching Assistant
Northrise University, EDEXCEL A-Level Biology
01.2017 - 01.2018
- Planned and prepared laboratory practical exercises aligned with taught theory.
- Ensured correct use and care of laboratory equipment and resources.
- Delivered instruction in line with the University’s curriculum statement and policies.
- Monitored and assessed students’ academic progress.
Education
Master of Public Health - Coursework Completed
Copperbelt University
Ndola, ZambiaMaster of Education - Curriculum & Instruction
Montana State University
Bozeman, MT01.2024
Bachelor of Science - Education (Biology major)
University of Zambia
Lusaka, Zambia08-2010
Skills
Seed Potato Certification & Plant Pathology Testing
Awards
Graduate Student Raising Family Academic Excellence Award – Montana State University (2024),
National STEM Appointment – Head of Biology, Ndola Girls’ National STEM School,
Community Engagement Recognition – Mentoring and rural education development in Zambia
Affiliations
Teaching Council of Education in Zambia
Publications
- Kalonde, G., Boateng, S., Chotwe, S., Sanni, L. & Ododo, F. (2024). Integration of Computer Science in Rural Math Classroom: A Case Study. In SITE International Conference Proceedings (pp. 1757–1761). AACE.
- Kalonde, G., Boateng, S., Sanni, L., Chotwe, S. & Ododo, F. (2024). Artificial Intelligence and Special Education: The Use and Integration. In SITE International Conference Proceedings (pp. 1926–1932). AACE.
Leadership & Administration
- Head of Biology Department at Ndola Girls’ National STEM School – led departmental curriculum, teaching quality, and student achievement initiatives.
- Assistant Human Resource Officer at Ndola Girls’ National STEM School – strengthened HR systems, recruitment, and compliance processes.
- Graduate Assistant at Montana State University – supported student leadership development, engagement strategies, and retention-focused initiatives.
Timeline
Research Assistant II
Montana State University, Seed Potato Certification Program
01.2022 - Current
Graduate Assistant – Office of Student Engagement
Montana State University
01.2022 - 2024
Assistant Human Resource Officer
Ndola Girls’ National STEM Secondary School
01.2020 - 01.2022
Teaching Assistant
Northrise University, EDEXCEL A-Level Biology
01.2017 - 01.2018
Head of Biology Department & Teacher
Ndola Girls’ National STEM Secondary School
2013 - 01.2022
Master of Public Health - Coursework Completed
Copperbelt University
Master of Education - Curriculum & Instruction
Montana State University
Bachelor of Science - Education (Biology major)
University of Zambia
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