SAKSHI GUPTA – Unleashing the Secrets of Cancer: A Rising Star in Molecular Biology

SAKSHI GUPTA

Summary:

A dedicated and detail-oriented Biology major with a minor in Chemistry currently pursuing an Integrated BS-MS program at the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER). Experienced in conducting research projects related to cancer biology and molecular cloning. Possess strong wet lab and software skills along with proven expertise in scientific documentation and communication. Excels in working both independently and collaboratively in a team environment.

EDUCATION

• Integrated BS-MS

2020 – 2025 | Tirupati, India

Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER)

Biology Major and Minor in Chemistry

GPA: 8.20/10.00

• Senior Secondary

2018 – 2019 | Raigarh, India

O. P. Jindal School, CBSE Board

Score: 474/500 (94.8%) in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology stream

• Matriculation

2016 – 2017 | Raigarh, India

O. P. Jindal School CBSE Board

CGPA: 10.00 / 10.00

PROJECTS

• MS Thesis Dissertation in Cancer Biology

06/2024 – 03/2025

Supervisor: Dr. Sonam Dhamija, CSIR-IGIB

Developing stable cell line models overexpressing oncogenic EGFR/KRAS mutations to investigate their impact on the RNA-binding protein KSRP’s function in lung cancer.

• Semester Project

01/2024 – 05/2024

Supervisor: Dr. Ashwani Sharma, IISER Tirupati

Adenosine detection in-vitro using Spinach aptamer-based biosensor molecule called BSMS.

• Semester Project

08/2023 – 12/2023

Supervisor: Dr. Suchi Goel, IISER Tirupati

Molecular cloning of protein domain Dbl1A of Plasmodium Falciparum.

• Summer Internship

05/2023 – 07/2023

Supervisor: Dr. Aanchal Kakkar, AIIMS New Delhi

Screening formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) Juvenile Nasal Angiofibroma (JNA) patient samples for mutation in the Beta-Catenin gene.

AWARDS AND HONOURS

• GATE XL (Life Sciences) – Qualified.
• NEET, IAT, NEST – Qualified.

SKILLS

Wet Lab Skills: Mammalian cell culture handling, Lentiviral Transduction, Transfection, Cloning (restriction digestion and gateway), Immunoblotting, Nucleic Acid isolation, IHC, FISH, PCR, In-vitro Transcription, Fluorescence assay, BSL-2 experience, GLP.

Software Skills: SnapGene, BioRender, PYMOL, Cytoscape, MS Office tools, R.

Soft skills: Time Management, Team Collaboration, Scientific Documentation, Critical Thinking, Scientific Communication.

HOBBIES

Badminton, Baking, Crafts, Drawing, Painting, Singing, Traveling.

REFERENCES

1. Dr. Sonam Dhamija

DBT/India Alliance Intermediate Fellow & Assistant Professor (AcSIR), CSIR-Institute of Genomics & Integrative Biology (IGIB), New Delhi 110025, India

2. Dr. Ashwani Sharma

Assistant Professor, Department of Chemistry & Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Tirupati – 517507, India

3. Dr. Aanchal Kakkar

Associate Professor (MBBS, MD), Department of Pathology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi – 110029, India

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Cover Letter:

I have recently finished my Integrated BS-MS degree in Biological sciences from IISER Tirupati as well as qualified GATE-XL. I bring a strong foundation in molecular and cell biology coupled with hands-on experience in molecular techniques. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute to the specified project.

As part of my academic journey, I have developed a strong interest in Cancer research, particularly involved in developing potential therapies and treatment strategy.
During my MS thesis at CSIR-IGIB under Dr. Sonam Dhamija, I worked on developing stable cell line models with oncogenic EGFR/KRAS mutations to study the role of RNA-binding protein KSRP in Lung Cancer. My previous research includes molecular cloning of Plasmodium falciparum proteins and developing RNA-based biosensors for adenosine detection in-vitro. During my academic and research experience, I have developed a strong background in molecular biology and cell biology techniques, including nucleic acid extraction, PCR, cloning, Western blotting, mammalian cell culture handling, and fluorescence microscopy.

Beyond technical competencies, I bring a collaborative and proactive mindset. I thrive in team environments where openness, enthusiasm, and intellectual curiosity are valued. I am particularly motivated by the opportunity to contribute to translational research that could bring positive patient outcomes.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to hearing from you.

Warm regards,
Sakshi Gupta