Developing Course Based Undergraduate Research Experience based of scientific research projects

Teaching undergraduate intro level courses in Genetics, Cell and Molecular Biology. I am very excited to start this new experience and look forward to adventures in a constant learning environment…

Developed content for upper-level courses• Fall 2021: Developed BIO331 upper-level Molecular Biology lecture and CURE lab • The course section focuses on basic and advanced molecular biology concepts with infusion of purposeful work component.• The molecular biology CURE lab section is designed to develop hands on genetics and molecular biology research and technical experience harnessing a powerful genetic model system Drosophila melanogaster.• Spring 2022: Teaching BIO204 “Molecules to Ecosystem” • Emphasizes on Scientific communication and Purposeful work• Course-based research experience focuses on how small molecules can impact ecosystem, hence climate change. In this course students will learn major biological concepts and competencies using a discovery-driven approach.• Spring 2022: Skills Course on Microdissection and Microscopy• 3.5 weeks long, intense skill course focuses on microdissections, immunohistochemistry and confocal microscopy using Drosophila melanogaster as genetic model system.

Development of research projects in Armstrong lab. Investigated adipocyte nutrient sensing and inter organ communication to support germline stem cells maintenance in ovaries using transgenic adult Drosophila melanogaster.Project and lab management, data analysis, interpretation and application of new concepts moving projects forward. Scientific content preparation for conferences, grants and manuscript submission.Trained and mentored researchers at all levels in cell biology techniques and confocal microscopy while trouble shooting problems.nRecipient of Advanced Support for Innovative Research Excellence Award (ASPIRE) as a principal investigator for undergraduate oriented research project.

Discovered restriction point (BR-C complex genes), modulating checkpoint (Dilp8) that regulates regenerative ability window in a developing Drosophila melanogaster.

Characterized novel source of insulin producing cells in gallbladder and its potential in cell replacement therapy to treat diabetes.Established in vitro growth conditions for human gallbladder derived insulin positive progenitors.Responsible for major gene expression studies demonstrating similarities between human fetal gallbladder and pancreatic beta cell in collaboration with clinicians.Exchange scholar for UKIERI UK India education and research initiative at University of Bath, Bath, UK (June-July 2009).Scientific findings resulted in funding from several Australian agencies like National Health and Medical Research Council ($650,875), Helen Macpherson Smith Trust ($200,000), Research Endowment Fund, St. Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne ($15,000).