I am currently a Visiting Research Scholar at the University of Western Australia (UWA), affiliated with the CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (IHBT) in Palampur, India. My academic pursuits are rooted in the dynamic interface of genetics, cellular signalling pathways, and therapeutic strategies, with a focus on unravelling the molecular mechanisms underlying hepatic diseases and developing interventions to mitigate their impact.
My journey into genetics has been shaped by a unique interdisciplinary background. With mathematics as my major in high school and biology as an elective, I developed an early appreciation for the logic and complexity of biological systems. This curiosity led me to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Biotechnology, followed by an M.Sc. in Human Genetics. I believe that my strong foundation in mathematics has significantly enhanced my ability to comprehend and analyse the intricacies of the genome and genetic regulation-equipping me with a systems-level perspective on disease biology.
I began my research journey at the CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (IHBT) in 2017 as a Project Fellow, where I had the opportunity to explore a range of scientific projects. These early experiences were instrumental in helping me understand the strengths and challenges of working in the field of research. In 2021, I formally enrolled in the Ph.D. program, driven by a strong commitment to translational science and a desire to bridge the gap between basic biology and therapeutic outcomes.
My doctoral research is focused on unravelling the molecular complexities of liver dysfunction, with the goal of identifying precision-based therapeutic targets. I have a special interest in how genetic and epigenetic factors influence hepatocyte behaviour and disease progression, and how these insights can be leveraged to develop natural product-based therapeutic strategies. Growing up in the Himalayas, I developed a deep appreciation for traditional medicine systems. Through my research, I hope to offer a modern scientific perspective on these traditional practices, blending them with contemporary biomedical approaches.
I am deeply engaged in experimental research and thoroughly enjoy working in the laboratory. I am proficient in in vitro and in vivo models and have hands-on experience with techniques such as histopathology, molecular biology, biochemical estimations, and fluorescence-based microscopy. I am particularly passionate about visualizing cellular structures under the microscope, applying diverse staining techniques, and investigating protein interactions at the microscopic level.
Currently, as a Visiting Research Scholar at the University of Western Australia (UWA), I am expanding my technical skill set by learning advanced methodologies such as lipid nanoparticle formulation and organoid development, which offer promising alternative models for hepatic targeting studies. Alongside my academic pursuits, I am passionate about science outreach and
mentorship. I strongly advocate for greater representation of women in STEM and strive to foster logical thinking and scientific curiosity in young minds. My vision is to contribute to an inclusive, collaborative, and innovative research ecosystem that drives progress in biomedical science and improves human health.
Beyond the lab, I have a deep interest in art, dance, and cultural exploration. I enjoy learning about different traditions and languages from around the world. I am fluent in Hindi, Punjabi, Urdu, and the many dialects spoken across Himachal Pradesh. Deeply rooted in the Himalayan culture, I am committed to building a meaningful life for myself and my family while remaining connected to the values and traditions that shaped me.
