Our Students
PhD
Wei-Yuan Chen
PHS is the premature germination of grains while the head is still maturing in the field. My project is based on our previous finding that the role of AGO4 related to the PHS in barley and wheat The goal is to create several lines for PHS resistance breeding.
McGill University
Guilherme Martins
In summary, we are trying to understand the plant-virus interaction. How plants regulate their antiviral defense during virus infection and in different environment conditions.
Université de Sherbrooke
Marianna Macedo
I am studying how specific epigenetic modifications & transcriptional regulation affect cell reprogramming & early development in embryos created by somatic cell nuclear transfer…
Findings from my research may have impactful implications in biotechnology, assisted reproductive technologies, and cell therapy.
McGill University
Prakriti Sharma
My research is on the “Studies on nuclear factor of activated t-cell signalling during deltamethrin induced lung damage”, in which i am focusing on Key genes and expression of them in NFAT signalling pathway.
Guru Angad Dev Veterinary & Animal Sciences University
Rashmi Sharma
I’m working on the estimation of prevalence of Taenia solium taeniasis and cysticercosis in human with special emphasis to genetic variation observed in infecting cyst and a…
survey to determine the awareness of individuals regarding the disease, its transmission and its manifestations.
Guru Angad Dev Veterinary & Animal Sciences University
Rajveer Singh
My doctoral research is focusing to prevent lipid or free fatty acids oxidation in rice bran to improve its oil quality. For this I am targeting phospholipase D alpha1 and lipoxygenase 3 (LOX3) gene in rice through CRISPR/Cas9 as ribonucleoprotein complex.
Punjab Agricultural University
Masters
Annis Fatmawati
My research focuses on identifying genes involved in beta-glucan regulation. We developed two strategies – target & non-target approaches, which use transposable elements & RNA-interference approaches respectively.
McGill University
Mohammed Kayum
I’m researching the generation of mutants in Rice targeting OsMATL gene via genome editing through CRISPR/Cas9 RNP complex with the help of particle gene gun.
Punjab Agricultural University
Jonas Lafave
I’m investigating an improved method for identifying the location of activation tags in the genome of our 2000 mutant Populus lines.
Queen’s University
Kristy Myles
My research interests lie at the interface of biotechnology development and regulatory policy decision-making. I examine how opening-up the social dimensions of genomic…
technology development in forestry can create space for new kinds of conversations about, and opportunities to reflect on, the broader social implications of promising biotechnologies.
University of Calgary
Alynne Kris Ribano
Canola is a major oilseed crop contributing to $26.7 billion to the Canadian economy annually. However, the productivity heavily relies on successful pollination of the plant…
Therefore, I study how proteins critical for successful pollination interact with one another during the process in canola.
University if Calgary
Postdoc
Dr. Zhou Zhou
My doctoral research is focusing to prevent lipid or free fatty acids oxidation in rice bran to improve its oil quality. For this I am targeting phospholipase D alpha1 and lipoxygenase 3 (LOX3) gene in rice through CRISPR/Cas9 as ribonucleoprotein complex.
McGilll University
PhD
Sumedha Arora
My research interest is on controlling softening and enhancing the shelf life of tomato fruits through CRISPR/Cas9 technique. Enhancing the shelf life of fruits and vegetables would be a greater step…
towards increasing nutritional security, particularly for the under-nourished population. For this purpose, I am editing the Pectate lyase gene which encodes for pectin modifying enzymes in the cell wall.
Punjab Agricultural University
Sheza Farooq
My research is focused on the concept of apoptosis and neutrophil extracellular trap in buffalo neutrophils and different molecular intervention to characterize the buffalo neutrophils…
I propose to evaluate Pasteurella multocida induced apoptosis and neutrophil extracellular trap in buffalo neutrophils with different treatment groups. I would like to learn improved biotechnological techniques in order to obtain stronger track record which might be helpful to me like learning various gene editing techniques and it prospects in Animal Science.
Guru Angad Dev Veterinary & Animal Sciences University
Ekta Patel
My doctoral research emphasizes on the editing of the Lipoxygenase gene (Lox-2) to reduce the beany flavor in soybean through CRISPR/Cas9 ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complex. I would like to…
learn more about genome editing practically so that I can implement it in my research experiments.
Punjab Agricultural University
Nitasha Sambyal
I am working on the quantitative risk assessment of milk and milk products with microbial and aflatoxin M analysis. I want to find the gene sequencing of…
antibiotic resistant bacteria and how we can prevent antibiotic resistance in future.
Guru Angad Dev Veterinary & Animal Sciences University
Masters
Thomas Donoso
The common oat (Avena sativa) is a major nutritional and economical crop for Canadians. Hence, improving the agronomical traits of this cereal has gained interest over time. As traditional breeding…
techniques prove to be slow and laborious, newly developed gene editing techniques have paved the way for a simpler enhancement of crop quality. My research involves the introduction of the CRISPR-Cas9 system in oat for the SEE MORE
McGill University
Sara Far
I’m looking at ways to optimize and circularize the canola oil production stream by exploring ways to improve the quality of canola crops and increasing the efficiency of…
oil and oil byproduct manufacturing. Through GEFSES-CREATE, I hope to develop a deeper understanding of policy and hone my science communication skills in order to bridge the gap between academic research, biotechnology policy, and industry innovation.
University of Calgary
Jasmine Kaur Randhawa
My research involves understanding the role of the endocannabinoid system in the ovarian granulosa cells for which one of the techniques applied will be CRISPR. As my research work includes…
genome editing experiments, being part of GEFSES- CREATE training program would benefit me to gain a deeper understanding of various genome editing
SEE MORE
McGill University
John Steele
I am investigating the role phytohormones play in regulating hazelnut flower development, laying the foundation for future remediation strategies to protect flower viability…
As an early career plant scientist I am primarily focused on fundamental research, however, recognize the importance of working with government and non-scientists to unlock the benefits science has to offer society in a responsible manner.
Queens University
Zoe Lai
I am currently studying a popular mutant from an Activation-tagged population, trying to identify the genetic basis behind its phenotype. I hope to continue to learn about gene-editing technologies and its…
potential applications in this GEFSES-CREATE program, as well as any potential developments in the interdisciplinary aspects of this field. Skills: visual illustration of scientific concepts, Well-versed in using R Statistical Software, and Adobe (Illustrator, Photoshop)
Queens University
Postdoc
Dr. Ejimedo Madogwe
My research is focused on fertility, which is fundamental to sustainable animal production and food security. My previous research was focused on understanding the mechanisms by which…
pituitary gonadotropins regulate ovulation using sequencing technologies (RNA-seq and ChIP-seq). I used global-gene edited mice and sequencing technologies (ChIP-seq and RNA-seq) to investigate the gene expression program governing ovarian functions and female fertility.
PhD
Dongyun Jung
I’m a PhD student (candidate) in Food Science and Agricultural Chemistry at McGill University.
I’m interested in understanding the genomics of pathogens and their interaction with…
I’m a PhD student (candidate) in Food Science and Agricultural Chemistry at McGill University.
I’m interested in understanding the genomics of pathogens and their interaction with native microbial communities in food-producing animals. My PhD research project focuses on defining the genomic differences between mammary pathogenic Escherichia coli (MPEC) and bovine commensal E. coli, as well as developing CRISPR-Cas9 based MPEC prophylactic system that targets the unique genes of MPEC. This project also focuses on tracking the differences in the microbiome between healthy and MPEC-infected bovine udders during lactation.
McGill University.
Neeraj Neeraj
I am currently enrolled in PhD program in Department of Animal Science at McGill University. My area of expertise is bovine reproduction involving assay development for estrus detection and transrectal…
ultrasonography in bovines. My current research area involves ketosis and its impact on postpartum dairy cow fertility. My research interests include development of diagnostic assays for estrus and ovulation prediction in bovines, genome editing for sustainable animal production and molecular mechanisms involving fertility in bovines.
McGill University
Karman Kour
I am Dr. Karman Kour. I am currently pursuing my PhD in veterinary microbiology from GADVASU, Ludhiana, India. I am working on Canine Parvovirus and the development of ELISA for its rapid diagnosis.
Guru Angad Dev Veterinary & Animal Sciences University
Shikha Chaudhary
I am a Veterinarian, holding my specialization in Veterinary Microbiology and Animal Biotechnology. I am a Ph.D. candidate at Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University…
Ludhiana, Punjab, India. My research interest lies in the field of antimicrobial resistance and disease diagnostics. Currently, I am trying to develop and validate an immunochromatographic strip assay, for the point of care diagnosis of Classical Swine Fever (CSF) at the farmers’ level. My long-term research vision would be to design experiments for targeting signature genes and obtaining recombinant proteins that may be employed to not only diagnose but to differentiate between vaccinated and non-vaccinated animals. Hence, with my research, I intend to provide farmers with a rapid and low-cost diagnostic solution for animal diseases.
Guru Angad Dev Veterinary & Animal Sciences University
Masters
Ethan Coates
My name is Ethan Coates, I am in my first year of my master’s studying developmental plant biology at the University of Calgary. I am proficient in multiple plant transformation techniques such as particle…
Justin Nichol
My current enrolled program is a Master’s of Science in Plant Molecular Developmental Biology, my research area of expertise is histology and immunohistochemistry, free hand-sectioning, microscopy…
and cell staining. I am currently researching/characterizing cell layers during silique development in the Brassicaceae family. I currently hold the Lab managerial position in the Dr. Marcus Samuel lab.strator, Photoshop)
University of Calgary
Roshanne Sihota
biotechnology applications for the environment and public health. I am currently researching the social dimensions of gene drives as solutions for vector-borne disease to inform governance and policy in a Canadian context.
University of Calgary
Daniel Batanau
Daniel is a Plant Science student at McGill University. With a background in molecular biology and genetics, Daniel is currently studying the behaviors of DNA methylation actors…
under cold stress conditions in the model grass Brachypodium distachyon. Daniel’s research interests lay in understanding how genetic engineering may be used to develop crops tolerant to variable temperatures caused by climate change.
McGill University
Harjot Kaur
I am Harjot Kaur, a student at Punjab Agricultural University. I am pursuing my master’s in the field of Plant Breeding and Genetics.
My research focuses on the optimization of doubled…
haploid protocol and the generation of haploid induction ability via site-directed mutation in the genes controlling haploid induction rate in the tropical maize. I am very well versed with molecular biology techniques as well as tissue culture methods. Along with that, I have been working on CRISPR/Cas9 approach for the past two years, so I know the difficulties faced while applying this technique as well as the alternative approaches that can be followed during our experiment. My research interests lie in the field of molecular as well as plant breeding, particularly in genome editing.
Punjab Agricultural University
Lakshay Goyal
I am Lakshay Goyal, currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Plant Breeding and Genetics at Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, India. My research focuses on developing a haploid inducer stock in rice by identifying and mutating …
Ajit Ghane
I am Ajit Ghane, currently pursuing my Ph.D. in School of Agri. Biotechnology at Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab, India. My research focus is on targeted mutagenesis of the lignin encoding gene that…
is COMT through CRISPR/Cas technology for efficient production of bioethanol from sugarcane lignocellulosic biomass.
Also I have experience of molecular, bioinformatics and biochemical techniques like HPLC etc.
Punjab Agricultural University
Postdoc
Dr. Karina Gutierrez
Karina is a Molecular Biologist and Embryologist. She holds a B.Sc in Biology, M.Sc in Animal Science and a Teaching Degree by the Federal University of Santa Maria, Brazil. She also holds a PhD in Animal Science by
McGill University. She did her training in the Bordignon group, which produced Canada’s first cloned pigs. Her research involved establishing genome editing tools to manipulate the genome of the embryo. She used CRISPR/Cas9 to edit the pig embryo genome, resulting in genome edited live piglets. Her current research focuses on porcine genome editing and the study of gene function during embryo development. She has worked on different projects with mice, cows, buffalos, marmosets and minipigs.
Federal University of Santa Maria
PhD
Zhangbin Cai
McGill University
I am currently enrolled in Animal Science at McGill University.
Bovine mastitis is one of the major economic burdens to the dairy industry. I am interested in finding antibiotic alternatives (probiotics plus CRISPR) to prevent/cure bovine mastitis caused by Staphylococcus aureus.
Luc Oullette
McGill University
Luc Ouellette is from the heart of Canada, otherwise known as Winnipeg, Manitoba. In 2018, Luc graduated with his honours in Plant Biotechnology from the University of Manitoba where he studied the molecular mechanisms of seed dormancy and germination in barley. In 2020, Luc completed his master’s in plant science at McGill
interest includes, but is not limited to, high-throughput phenotyping, genomics, single-cell transcriptomics, bioinformatics, and genome editing for abiotic stress tolerance in crop plants.
Mehtab Singh
McGill University
I joined Dr. Jaswinder Singh’s lab for M.Sc. Plant Science degree at McGill University. Later, I upgraded to a PhD programme starting Fall 2022. I am working on exploring SQUAMOSA promoter binding like (SPL) gene family and their role in transcriptional modulation of vernalization (Vrn) genes in oat using CRISPR/Cas9. My long term goal is…
is to develop high yielding oat genotypes suitable for Canadian agroclimatic conditions. I am fond of clicking pictures and playing badminton during my leisure time.
Iqra Arif
GADVASU
Iqra Arif is a second year Ph.D. student at Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, India. Her research currently focuses on, various neglected zoonotic diseases in northern west region of India. She will…
carry out a cross-sectional prevalence study among 5 states to identify the burden of selected diseases. Her interest lies in Genomics, Genome editing and transgenics. In her MVSc program she has identified ESBL E. coli in different poultry rearing patterns.
Alisha
GADVASU
A trained and qualified Veterinarian having DVM and an M.Vet.Sc from a reputed university in India. She also has an MS in Veterinary Biomedical Sciences from University of Saskatchewan, Canada under assisted reproductive technology based…
projects. She has academic and research skills mainly focussing on molecular biology, embryology and animal cloning. Over the years, she has gained an in depth knowledge of scientific research based projects and publications in peer reviewed international journals. She has a future goal to establish as a Veterinary academician.
Jaswinder Kaur
GADVASU
Jaswinder Kaur is a second-year Ph.D. candidate at Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, India. Her research currently focuses on, Systems biology through In-vitro differential transcriptome and miRNAome profiling in indigenous versus exotic dog breeds. She will identify the key genes…
contributing to disease resistance. Her interest lies in Genomics, Genome editing, and transgenics. She has taught biology to high school students for Two years. In her MSc dissertation program, she came up with plant-based therapy for diabetes, “Naringenin” a citrus fruit flavanone that was found to lower blood glucose levels.
Urvashi Sharma
Punjab Agricultural University
Tomato is one of the most consumed vegetables constituting an important part of the human diet. However, ripened tomato contains 50 mg per 100 g of oxalate which is quite high as far as consumption is concerned. Its excessive intake might cause kidney stones and inhibit mineral absorption. Furthermore, the human genome…
is known to lack oxalate-degrading gene(s) and tomato varieties containing low oxalate are commercially not available. In tomato, glycolate oxidase (GLO) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) are the key oxalate precursor genes that have multiple copies located on different chromosomes.
My doctoral research is a foremost attempt at targeting multiple gene copies of GLO and APX using RNP-mediated multiplexed gRNA-CRISPR/Cas9 strategy to reduce oxalate content up to a permissible limit in table top tomato variety ‘Punjab Swarna’ already rich in carotenoids (14%) (added advantage) so as to enhance nutrient bioavailability and minimize formation of kidney stones.
Masters
María Elena Carrillo Herrera
McGill University
My name is María Elena Carrillo Herrera. I am a graduate of Monterrey Institute of Technology and Higher Education (ITESM) with a B.Sc. in Biotechnology Engineering and a minor in Molecular Biology, now pursuing…
a Master of Science in Animal Science. My research interests lie in understanding the mechanisms involved in the regulation of early embryo development by porcine genome editing to study the potential role of NELF-A during embryo development.
Findings from my research may have implications on animal and human fertility and agricultural and animal production.
John Robinson
Queen’s University
Current Enrolled Program: Master of Science, Biology
Current Research Area: Genomics
Research Expertise/Interest: My current research explores the rhizosphere of various Corylus species using modern genomic approaches. I am fascinated by the industrial applications of plant and fungal biotechnologies…
Currently, I am interested in how genes regulate environmental interactions in plants and how these interactions can contribute to the improvement of key traits in economically important crop species.
Samuel Nguyen
McGill University
I am a Microbiology & Immunology MSc student working on bovine mastitis. My project aims to identify pathogenic and protective markers of the udder microbiota. With these markers, we can leverage the CRISPR-Cas technology to eliminate udder pathogens to keep the cows healthy and the milk safe for consumption, all without relying on antibiotics.
Fernanda Luiza Facioli
McGill University
I’m a Veterinarian currently enrolled in the MSc. Program in Animal Science at McGill University. I have expertise in many techniques of molecular biology as well as in vitro embryo production with a great interest in animal embryology and reproduction biotechnologies. My research focuses on the application of genome editing technologies to study the role of transcription factors in the regulation of embryo development in pigs.
PhD
Taylor Steelman
University of Calgary
Taylor Steelman is a doctoral student (human geography) at the University of Calgary. His research focuses on the governance of genome editing of animals in Canada. Prior to beginning at Calgary, he obtained a BA in philosophy, an MA in human geography, and a Master of Occupational Therapy.
Deepak Bhamare Prashant
Punjab Agricultural University (PAU)
I am a student at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) pursuing a Ph.D. in the field of Biotechnology. My research focuses on a generation of resistance for banded leaf and sheath blight disease in maize by CRISPR/Cas9 mediated knocking out of Zmfbl41 locus, which ideally degrades the enzyme involved in lignin biosynthesis in maize and thus leads to susceptibility towards fungus Rhizoctonia solani.
I have experience with breeding techniques such as marker-assisted backcross breeding as well as molecular techniques such as PCR, gene cloning, molecular docking and chromatography techniques, particularly column chromatography and LC-MS/MS.
Himani Gautam
GADVASU
Himani Gautam is a second-year Ph.D. Scholar at Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, India. Her research work involves construction of recombinant proteins which would aid her in development of immunoassay’s for the diagnosis of Leptospirosis. She has a keen interest in studying molecular biology.
Juhi Gupta
GADVASU
I am a Veterinarian and currently pursuing my Ph.D in Veterinary Microbiology at GADVASU.
My research is on the “Studies on molecular, serological and cell mediated immune response based techniques for the diagnosis of Mycobacterial infections in goats”
Rhythm
GADVASU
I’m Rhythm, a first-year PhD candidate at Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University in India. My current research focuses on zoonotic bacterial diseases among abattoir workers to enhance their occupational safety. During my master’s, I worked on molecular detection of Helicobacter pylori in buffaloes.
As a GEFSES program member, I’m enthusiastic about utilizing advanced genome editing techniques to tackle vital challenges in food security and environmental sustainability. The program’s collaborative and innovative environment empowers me to explore new paths for a positive change in our world.
Wavhal Nilam Pandurang
GADVASU
Hello, I’m Nilam. Currently, I am engaged in the development of lateral flow assays for the detection of antibiotic residues, a project that combines my scientific knowledge and commitment to addressing critical issues in food safety. I look forward to continuing my journey in the life sciences and making meaningful contributions to these vital fields.
My journey in research began with my master’s study focused on neglected zoonotic diseases, particularly cysticercosis. Subsequently, I ventured into the quality assurance domain, where I practiced my skills in ensuring the safety and quality of poultry products at a chicken processing plant. This experience instilled in me a strong commitment to food safety standards and regulatory compliance. In addition to my academic and industry experience, I have had the privilege of serving as an extension officer for various government schemes, where I worked closely with farmers at the grassroots level. This role allowed me to witness the challenges faced by the agricultural community and contribute to initiatives aimed at improving their livelihoods.
Piyali Das
Punjab Agricultural University
I am Piyali Das, currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Biotechnology at Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, India. My doctoral research focuses on reducing the silica content in rice stems. For this, I am targeting a silicon transporter, Lsi6 gene, in rice through CRISPR/Cas9 technology. I have experience with basic molecular, bioinformatics, and biochemical techniques.
Masters
Allison Guthri
University of Calgary
My name is Allison Guthrie, I’m a Masters student at the University of Calgary in the lab of Dr. Marcus Samuel.
My research is on protein accumulation in seeds, and elucidating the genetic pathway that controls it. Our goal with this work as a lab is to develop crop varieties with increased seed protein production, particularly peas, canola, and rice, to satisfy global needs for plant-based protein.
Cali Kaye
McGill University
I am currently working to functionally characterize a thaumatin-like protein in barley, using CRISPR to generate knock-out mutants. In this study, I also aim to express this thaumatin-like protein as a recombinant protein in E. coli in order to evaluate its possible enzymatic activity. I am very interested in continuing to learn about how genes shape the anatomy and physiology of organisms.
Chris Fawcett
University of Calgary
My name is Chris Fawcett, and I pursuing my MSc in plant biology at the University of Calgary. I’m currently working on genetic modifications made to canola (Brassica Napus) to increase shatter tolerance within the silique. Additionally, I am also analyzing and characterizing mutant phenotypes within canola that display the potential to increase desiccation tolerance. This would help farmers by reducing the amount of harvest lost due to unpredictable weather patterns.
Victoria Tenor
University of Calgary
I am a master’s student in geography at the University of Calgary with a background in biology (BSc). My master’s research examines how public engagement is defined and enacted in Canada’s federal animal biotechnology regulations. I will conduct a qualitative case study of the recent approval by Environment and Climate Change Canada, under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, of the EntoEngine fly, an insect platform for recombinant protein.
Khushnoor Brar
Punjab Agricultural Universiity
I am Khushnoor Brar doing Master’s in Plant Breeding and Genetics at Punjab Agricultural University. My research endeavours are centered around the field of genetic manipulation, specifically the development of haploid inducer stock in rice through the innovative CRISPR/Cas-based genome editing technology. This groundbreaking work aims to revolutionize rice breeding. In my pursuit of scientific excellence, I have honed a diverse skill set, including proficiency in molecular techniques such as DNA and RNA extraction, PCR, qPCR, and gel electrophoresis.
PhD
My project focused on the Trehalose 6 phosphate phosphatases (TPP) and it’s role in spikelet number in common wheat. It primarily involves knocking out TPP gene editing using CRISPR-cas9 and analysing the downstream effects of gene editing on the crop. In addition, my project also focuses on transcriptional regulation of TPP gene involving analyzing the potential role SQUAMOSA promoter binding like proteins (SPLs) in regulating TPP gene.
Arvind Ambalatharasan
Kevin Christopher Vibat
University of Calgary
Kevin Christopher Vibat (he/him) is a current PhD student in the Department of Geography at the University of Calgary. His research explores the Responsible and Anticipatory Governance of Gene Editing Technologies in Canada’s beef industry. Kevin holds multidisciplinary degrees in Environmental Sciences, Cellular, Molecular, and Microbial Biology, along with a master’s in business management, all of which he completed after 2022.
In recognition of his passion and leadership in sustainability, he was named one of Alberta’s Top 30 Under 30 in 2024. Through his diverse academic and professional background, Kevin has cultivated strong skills in collaboration, communication, leadership, and critical thinking – qualities he hopes to contribute to the GEFSES research group.
Mohamed Elfateh Salem
McGill University
I am investigating the effect of antisense oligonucleotide as antimicrobial agents. My research focusing on finding novel alternatives to tackle the antimicrobial resistance issue
Kulvir Pal Singh
Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University
I am Kulvir Pal Singh, a first year Ph.D. candidate at Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University Ludhiana, Punjab, India. My research interest lies in the field of poultry sciences for early diagnosis of disease. Currently, I am trying to design and development of peptide based immunoassay for Avian Infectious Bronchitis Virus diagnostics. My aim is to offer farmers a quick and affordable way to diagnose poultry diseases.
Navdeep Kaur Dhiman
Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University
I am Navdeep Kaur Dhiman, a Ph.D. scholar in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology. My research focuses on Salmonella pullorum, aiming to develop vaccines and diagnostic tools through sequencing and bioinformatics. I am also working on biochemical assays to differentiate between S. pullorum and S. Gallinarum, with the goal of improving livestock health.
Vanshika Sharma
Punjab Agricultural University
I am pursuing my master’s in molecular biology and biotechnology from Punjab Agricultural University. I have completed my bachelor’s in biotechnology from PAU. I have expertise in many of molecular biology and tissue culture techniques. My current research aims to develop PVY virus-resistant potato mutants using CRISPR-mediate genome editing as potato is the third extremely dominant vegetable crop after wheat and rice for staple diet and Potato virus Y (PVY), belonging to genus Potyvirus is one of the devastating RNA potyvirus and causes yield loss of up to 90%. Hence inducing resistance against PVY in potato will contribute to food security.
Gaurav Augustine
Punjab Agricultural University
I am Gaurav Augustine, currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Biotechnology at Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, India.
Masters
Anka Varju
Queens University
As a MSc student in the Department of Biology at Queen’s, my research focuses on developing strategies to effectively grow the European hazelnut here in Ontario for the confectionary industry. Our lab investigates the hormonal regulation of flower dormancy, with the goal of developing a hormone-based product to prolong dormancy as needed. My project involves characterizing the function of a gene involved in the biosynthesis of one of these hormones through expression in Arabidopsis thaliana.
Renée Duffy
McGill University
I am a Master’s student enrolled in the Animal Science program at McGill’s Macdonald campus. With my background in Life Sciences and my life-long passion for large animals, I have a curious disposition as well as a creative mindset. I’m excited to have an opportunity to investigate the role of autophagy in regulating embryogenesis in order to hopefully improve the efficiency of ARTs in a production context.
Tanya Sarin
McGill University
I am a Master’s student at McGill University, studying the regulatory factors involved in oat beta-glucan synthesis. Beta-glucan is a soluble dietary fiber known to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by reducing LDL cholesterol levels. My overarching research interests lie in leveraging gene editing techniques to develop lines of accessible crops that incorporate essential nutrients to benefit human health.