Lara Chapman

Laboratory Manager

Qualifications

BSc (Hons) Chemistry, University of Cape Town (2010); MSc Chemistry, University of Cape Town (2013); Business Analyst Certificate (2022)

Background

Lara Chapman is the lab manager for the Centre for Minerals Research (CMR) in the Department of Chemical Engineering at the University of Cape Town (UCT). She holds a BSc (Hons) and MSc in Chemistry from UCT, complemented by further development in business analysis. Lara began her career at the UCT as a lab assistant and demonstrator/tutor while completing her postgraduate studies, gaining experience in practical chemistry teaching and lab operations. After completing her MSc, she transitioned into the pharmaceutical manufacturing industry, holding several roles at Fine Chemicals Corporation (FCC), including Regulatory Affairs Chemist, Production Supervisor, Master Data Analyst, and Production Lead. During her 11 years in the pharmaceutical industry, Lara built expertise in GMP compliance, production planning, data management, and team leadership. She returned to UCT in 2025 to manage the CMR Labs, bringing her strong organizational, technical, and people skills to the role. Lara oversees all aspects of lab operations and supports the research, training, and safety initiatives of the CMR team. Lara’s aim in this role is to actively participate in training, fostering a safe and efficient research environment, and supporting initiatives to optimize mineral processing and sustainability practices.

Employment

2025 – Present             Laboratory Manager, Centre for Minerals Research, University of Cape Town
2022 – 2025                   Production Lead, FCC, Cape Town
2020 – 2022                   Master Data Analyst, FCC, Cape Town

2016 – 2020                   Production Supervisor, FCC, Cape Town

2014 – 2016                   Regulatory Affairs Chemist, FCC, Cape Town
2010 – 2013               Laboratory Assistant, Demonstrator & Tutor, Department of Chemistry, University of Cape Town

Research & Professional Interests

  • Laboratory management & process improvement
  • Training & development of students & staff
  • Supporting sustainable practices in minerals research