Research Associate
Advanced Science Research Centre, New York
January 2020 – March 2021During my postdoctoral training, I determined the circadian clock properties of glial cells. Using an around-the-clock approach, I characterized how different molecular clock components fluctuate in light and dark conditions. I further investigated how glial clocks influence sleep and circadian behavior.
Advisor: Prof. Orie T. ShaferPostdoctoral Researcher
McGill University, Montreal
December 2017 – November 2019PhD Student
McGill University, Montreal
September 2011 – November 2017My PhD thesis focused on understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms of glial development and function in the Drosophila brain.
Using sophisticated imaging and genetic analyses, I identified a new genetic program for astrocyte birth involving Notch, PointedP1, and Prospero transcription factors.
I found two molecular candidates, AANAT1 and Eaat2, that express in glial cells, regulating sleep/wake cycles.
I developed a liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (LC-MS) technique to accurately and simultaneously measure multiple monoamines, such as dopamine and serotonin, from brain tissues.
Advisor: Prof. Don van MeyelJunior Research Fellow
National Centre for Biological Sciences, Bangalore, India
June 2009 – July 2011As a predoctoral student, I used a single-cell clonal technique to uncover the diversity of glutamatergic neurons in the adult Drosophila brain. This analysis identified two novel lineages that populate the olfactory circuits during development. I further probed the role of glutamatergic interneurons in the development and maintenance of olfactory circuits and how they change the sense of smell.
Advisors: Prof. Veronica Rodrigues, Prof. K. VijayRaghvan Research Assistant
Loyola Centre for Research & Development, Ahmedabad, India
September 2008 – May 2009During my first-ever research training, I extracted, identified, and purified phytochemicals, such as alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and phenolics from endangered medicinal plants. I generated plant material using in vitro micropropagation cultures. Then, I tested the purified extracts for anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties.
Advisor: Prof. Vincent Braganza