I graduated from the Institute of Bioinformatics and Biotechnology at Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU), India, in May 2024 with an Integrated MS in Biotechnology. During my time at SPPU, I began my research career with a brief stint in bioinformatics and protein phylogeny under the guidance of my role model, Prof. S. P. Modak. For my undergraduate thesis, I conducted cellular assays and molecular biology experiments to evaluate medicinal mushrooms as candidates for anti-cancer drug development in colon and breast cancer cell lines. In May 2023, I was awarded a summer research fellowship by the Indian Academy of Sciences, during which I worked at the Laboratory of Molecular Oncology at the Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics in India. I generated truncation mutants of ARID2, a component of the SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complex, and studied its effects on early-onset sporadic rectal cancer. My diverse research experiences and deep interest in neuroscience led me to explore the remarkable interplay between sleep and memory consolidation at the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research in India. I analyzed the effects of acute oxidative stress on sleep, long-term memory, and survival in Drosophila melanogaster through olfactory conditioning experiments, behavioral paradigms, and molecular assays. This work solidified my passion for the molecular and cellular aspects of neuroscience and their implications in neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders.
Consequently, I joined the Stevens Lab to work with Dr. Youtong Huang on exploring the signaling pathways and players involved in microglia-mediated synaptic pruning. I am excited to contribute to the fascinating integration of immunology and neuroscience being unraveled in the Stevens Lab!
Outside of work, I enjoy wandering through the city's bylanes, exploring different cuisines, or immersing myself in Indian classical music.