Anusha Channaiah Usha

~Plasmid DNA extraction from yeast and bacteria (minipreps), followed by NanoDrop-based concentration and purity analysis. DNA quantification and normalization using Qubit fluorometer. ~Restriction enzyme digestion (EcoRI), DpnI digestion, TOPO cloning (blunt-end), Sequencing sample preparation. Designing DNA constructs and assemblies using SnapGene and Applying CRISPR-based (Cas9 and dCas9) genome engineering strategies for targeted modification of yeast genome. ~Implementing degenerate codon design and site-directed mutagenesis to modify replication elements and centromeres. ~Assembling DNA using Gibson Assembly, Golden Gate Assembly, and yeast homologous recombination. ~Performing plasmid minipreps, midipreps and cloning. ChIP-seq experimental design, to study ORC, centromere, and DNA - protein interactions

~Melting point determination, infrared (IR) sample preparation and basic spectral interpretation, pH measurement and adjustment, chemical synthesis and preparation, yield calculation and purity assessment, data validation and consistency checks across experimental trials ~Assisted students during laboratory experiments, monitored experimental procedures and results, and helped with grading and academic evaluation.

~Acid-base extraction and multistep liquid–liquid extraction, reflux-based synthesis, Fischer esterification, SN1 and SN2 reaction execution, Diels-Alder cycloaddition, recrystallization with solvent optimization, thin-layer chromatography (TLC) with Rf analysis, column chromatography for compound purification, reaction quenching, work-up, and product isolation.

~High-fidelity PCR workflows including standard PCR, colony PCR, yeast boil PCR, gradient PCR, and touchdown PCR. Primer design, Amplification of promoters, terminators, fluorescent protein cassettes, ultramers, and full plasmid assemblies (up to ~13 kb) ~Yeast techniques: preparation of competent Saccharomyces cerevisiae (GGY114) cells using the LiOAc/PEG method, OD600 measurements, Zymolyase digestion, heat shock transformation, and auxotrophic selection (SC-Leu). Yeast colony screening via NaOH boil lysis and downstream PCR validation. Electroporation of plasmids into Escherichia coli (EPI300), SOC recovery, antibiotic selection (kanamycin), and arabinose-induced copy control cultures

~Prepared cell culture media (DMEM, RPMI-1640) supplemented with FBS and antibiotics for mammalian cell lines, Sub-cultured and maintained HeLa cells, ensuring healthy growth and viability. ~Performed cell counting using hemocytometer and Trypan Blue exclusion assay to assess cell viability, Applied cryopreservation techniques to freeze and revive cell lines for long-term storage ~Conducted MTT assays to assess cytotoxic effects of model compounds and herbal extracts on cell viability, Observed cell responses in simple dose-response experiments to understand effects of non-toxic compounds

~Plasmid and genomic DNA extraction from E. coli and yeast, RNA extraction workflows from bacterial samples for cDNA synthesis and PCR experiments, PCR and colony PCR for bacterial gene verification. Agarose gel electrophoresis for DNA and PAGE for bacterial proteins, performed ELISA and Western blot analysis. ~Assisted in recombinant protein expression workflows in bacterial systems for functional assay demonstrations, Prepared, ran, stained, and de-stained SDS-PAGE gels and performed native PAGE to observe enzyme activity. Supported protein quantification using Bradford and BCA assays, prepared buffers (Tris, PBS, TE) for experiments. ~Conducted antibiotic selection and blue-white screening under supervision to isolate bacterial clones, Prepared LB broth, LB agar, and selective media (ampicillin, kanamycin) for bacterial growth, Maintained aseptic technique, inoculations, and streak plating inside laminar flow hoods.

~Organized academic and extracurricular activities within the department, including bi-weekly meetings and discussions on industry-relevant coursework. ~Managed lab schedules and student access, clarified syllabus requirements, and served as a point of contact between faculty and students. ~Coordinated with other departments to support interdisciplinary events and assisted students with course registration and advising.

~Managed workshops, fairs, conferences, and academic events, including guest speaker sessions, paper and poster presentations, and R&D programs. ~Handled event logistics such as scheduling, communication, on-site coordination, and event promotion through social media and campus channels. ~Collected and reviewed post-event feedback and worked with academic departments to improve future events and align content with student needs.

GPA - 3.7/4.0 NYU Merit-Based Scholarship Recipient.

~ VTU State Second Rank Holder in Biotech ~ Received 3 Gold medals ~ Recognized as academic achiever thrice