Profile:
Leveraging a degree in biomedical sciences, intend to research and make impactful contributions in the realm of neurological conditions and diagnostic improvement. Scientific problems are adeptly tackled with the help of quantitative strengths, leading to real-world applications that positively influence society.
Personal Details:
Renuka Mulik
Bail Bazar Sambaji Nagar, Malkapur, Karad, Maharashtra, 415539
Education:
Sep 2022 – Sep 2023:
Master of Science: Master in Microbiology
Krishna Institute of Medical Science, Karad, Maharashtra
Thesis Paper: “Identification and characterization of polystyrene degrading bacteria obtained from the mealworm Tenebrio molitor”
Jun 2020 – Jun 2020:
Bachelor of Science: Bachelors in Chemistry
Satguru Gadage Maharaj College, Kolhapur University, Karad, Maharashtra
Employment:
Mar 2024 – Present:
JRF
Neurobiology Lab, Mangalore University, Mangalore, India
Project Entitled: Effects of Quercetin on Oxidative Stress and Apoptosis in a Drosophila Epileptic Mutant Model
Mar 2023 – Nov 2023:
Project Assistant
Cochin Institute Of Science Technology, Kerala, India
Project Entitled: Pathogenic Cocktail Bacterial via Rectum Initiates Microbial Braingut Axis Dysbiosis and Neurodegenerative Diseases
Sep 2022 – Feb 2023:
Trainee
Krishnan Institute, Maharashtra, India
Feb 2024 – Present:
Summer Intern
Research student, Bangalore
Skills:
Microbiology, Chromatography technique, Neuroimaging, Molecular Cloning Technique, Cell Biology, Data Analysis, Language Proficiency
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Cover Letter:
To
Dear Hiring Committee,
E-Merge Tech,
Chennai.
Application for Research Associate Position (Bio-Curator)
Dear Hiring Committee,
In recent months, I have witnessed the growing prevalence of Guillain-Barre syndrome in my home state of Maharashtra, India—an autoimmune neurological condition that remains poorly understood and has limited treatment options. This exposure deeply motivated me to pursue advanced research in disease biology. My curiosity about the brain’s complex systems was first sparked during a neuroscience conference I attended, and since then, I have been driven to explore the field further through academic study and hands-on research. I believe that my research interests and academic background align well with the Research Associate Position.
My undergraduate in Chemistry at Shivaji University provided a strong foundation in organic and biochemical mechanisms, particularly in enzyme function and molecular analysis techniques such as mass spectroscopy and chromatography—skills that are highly relevant in neuroscience. To deepen my understanding of life sciences, I pursued a Master’s in Microbiology at Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences in 2020.
Further, I also gained wet lab hands-on training by attending summer research camps and conferences that helped to foster curiosity and scientific undertakings, For instance, I took a wet lab training summer internship at IISC Bangalore, affiliated lab Protein design under Dr Deepti Saini through which I grain knowledge of Primer designing using BLAST, molecular cloning, restriction digestion in C41 Bacterial plasmids and Identification pET28a, pET24a expression plasmids and, I completed a two-week wet lab training workshop at the National Brain Research Centre in Haryana, where I earned certification in Laboratory Animal Science (CCLAS). I was trained in handling rodents, B form filling, animal welfare guidelines 3Rs in research and conducting behavioural studies, including the administration of saline through renal, oral gavage, intraperitoneal, intramuscular, and intravenous injections.
I also learned to induce Parkinson’s disease models via stereotactic surgery using 6-OHDA. On the last day, I gave a presentation talk titled, “Investigation of the effect of semaglutide in MPTP-induced Parkinson’s disease in mice via oral gavage” The study of neuroinflammation, along with cell signalling processes in molecular pathways, drives my interest in neuroscience research. I developed not only technical skills but also a strong appreciation for collaboration through these workshops.
During my Master’s thesis, I investigated the gut microbiota of Tenebrio molitor, focusing on bacteria capable of degrading polystyrene. This work enhanced my laboratory skills and deepened my understanding of plastivore microbiology, while also sparking my interest in the gut-brain axis as an area of interdisciplinary research. My curiosity brought me to the Centre for Neuroscience in Kochi, Kerala, in 2023, where I worked as a Project Assistant under Dr Baby Chakrapani P.S. At the Centre, I used a C57BL/6 mice model to investigate how colitis affects the connection between the brain and gut. I researched how the gut microbiota and the brain interact bidirectionally and faecal microbiota transplantation can mitigate IBD-associated conditions. Also, research on how bile acids trigger cytotoxic stress and signalling pathways. I worked on several molecular biology methods, like Western blotting, SDS-PAGE, extracting RNA with TRIzol, RT-PCR, qPCR, FACS, immunohistochemistry, gel electrophoresis, and MTT assays.
As I researched colitis-induced ER stress I have learned more about the UPR, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and neuroinflammation, and how they are involved in the function of the neuroimmune system. This experience has improved my research abilities, especially with molecular techniques, data analysis (ANOVA, T-Test), and projects that involve generating and testing a hypothesis.
Most recently, I conducted research under Dr. Mustak on the neuroprotective potential of phytochemicals in an epileptic mutant Drosophila model. The project focused on identifying compounds such as quercetin to reduce inflammation and programmed cell death, particularly by suppressing NF-κB activity and reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS). Using climbing assays and molecular techniques, I investigate how antioxidant-rich phytochemicals exhibit anti-inflammatory effects and their potential as treatments for seizures. Through this work, I have developed a deep appreciation for the attention to detail, discipline, and perseverance required in a research setting. What draws me most about Bio-Curator is getting involved in the publication and clinical trial research which I hope to thrive. My prior research experiences, paired with a strong sense of curiosity and dedication, have prepared me to contribute meaningfully to such a setting, applying creative problem-solving techniques to address scientific questions.
I am thankful to the hiring Committee for their review of my application. I look forward to discussing this with you.
Sincerely,
Renuka Mulik