Shubham Sahu, PhD

My project aims to understand how information about the developmental sequence in living organisms is conveyed and shared by cells and tissues in time. This is crucial for finding out how complex genetic circuits coordinate and synchronize the order of development. In the future this knowledge could be translated to humans and have an impact in clinics as potential cures and biomarkers for cancer and aging. We also developed another genetic technology that allows for the first time to visualize in real-time the production of RNA inside each cell in a growing animal. It also provides information on the numbers of RNA molecules produced at each time which is impossible information from any other existing methods.

I developed a paper-based multiplexed microfluidic device for diagnosing Zika, Dengue, and Chikungunya viruses. My contributions included optimizing DNA/RNA capture, implementing QUASR LAMP for pathogen detection, and designing a low-cost heater/reader. Through this project, I gained experience in low-cost diagnostics, RT-LAMP technology, and integrating emerging technologies for point-of-care applications.

My research focused on understanding neuron activation in response to pathogen invasion in live zebrafish embryos. I investigated the molecular pathways involved in peptidergic release, using calcium imaging to monitor neuron activity and chemical stimulation to simulate pathogen invasion. Through this project, I gained experience with the zebrafish model system, calcium imaging analysis, and experimental design and execution.

I participated in the iGEM competition as part of Team Name on the StarCores project, which focused on creating novel, star-shaped antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria. We designed and synthesized AMPs targeting Gram-negative bacteria, particularly for use in pig farms in France. This project enhanced my skills in synthetic biology, collaborative research, and project management. For more details, visit our team wiki here. https://2018.igem.org/Team:Paris_Bettencourt

As a graduate student, I researched "Novel tools for the directed evolution of polymerases," focusing on developing methods to engineer polymerases for industrial applications. My contributions included employing directed evolution techniques, using droplet microfluidics for high-throughput screening, and gaining expertise in biochemical enzyme screening and microfluidic chip design. I also assisted with selection cycles and next-generation sequencing data analysis. This project enhanced my skills in molecular biology, microfluidics, and NGS analysis.

I investigated the suitability of static methods for studying biofilm formation in Ureaplasma spp. Despite their potential for biofilm formation, Ureaplasma spp. suffer rapid cell death in static models due to metabolic waste accumulation. My role included designing and executing experiments, analyzing data, and determining the limitations of static methods. This project enhanced my skills in research design, microbiology techniques, data analysis, and scientific communication.

- Provided exceptional customer service as the first point of contact, assisting with product selection and offering personalized recommendations. - Achieved sales targets through upselling and cross-selling strategies. - Efficiently processed debit/credit card transactions and cash payments.