Kavita Thaker

I am a highly skilled Scientific Officer with over 10 years of experience in preclinical and clinical research, currently working at the Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer (ACTREC), Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai. Since 2015, I have been at the forefront of multidisciplinary research focused on advancing cancer therapeutics and personalized medicine.

I will be relocating to Milton Keynes, UK, on a spouse visa in April 2025 and am actively seeking research or industry roles in London or Milton Keynes where I can leverage my expertise to contribute to innovative scientific advancements.

My core expertise includes drug development, with a strong foundation in in vitro and in vivo evaluation, ADMET profiling, drug-drug interaction, and herb-drug interaction. As a FELASA-certified animal scientist, I bring a high level of proficiency in designing animal protocols and providing strategic input on preclinical studies.

Key contributions to cancer research and therapeutics include (in vivo and clinical trials):

• Mechanism of Cell-Free Chromatin: Investigated its transformative effects on normal cells using in vivo models.
• Innovative Resveratrol-Copper Combination: Led the preclinical and clinical evaluation of this unique combination, which effectively downregulated cancer hallmarks and immune checkpoints in advanced oral squamous cell carcinoma patients.
• Gut Microbiome Restoration: Explored chemotherapy and radiation-induced dysbiosis and evaluated restoration strategies such as plant based pigment chlorophyllin. The product is launched in the market for radio protection.
• Oral Microbiome Research: Explored the role of oral microbiome of smokeless tobacco users to assess its role in oral health and disease progression.

I integrate microbiology, molecular biology, and histopathological techniques to tackle complex research challenges. My expertise also extends to project management, resource planning, and intellectual property (IP) management.

With strong scientific writing and presentation skills, I have successfully authored protocols, reports, and research papers, ensuring impactful dissemination of findings. My ability to collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary teams and to blend traditional and modern pharmacological approaches makes me a valuable asset in addressing contemporary research challenges.

My communication skills are well-developed, enabling me to interact effectively with diverse audiences. I have presented my research extensively at national and international conferences and have a solid publication record in peer-reviewed journals. Importantly, I also have experience engaging with the press and advocacy groups, effectively conveying complex scientific information to non-scientific stakeholders.

For instance, I have organized university-academia interface meetings to highlight research with commercial potential, participated in start-up conclaves focused on innovation and impact, and presented research findings to a lay audience during fundraising events. Additionally, I have a proven ability to organize impactful symposiums, conferences, training workshops, and meetings.

I am a highly motivated and results-oriented individual characterized by a strong work ethic and a genuine passion for scientific discovery. My MBA in Project Management has further equipped me with valuable skills in strategic planning, resource allocation, and efficient project execution. I possess extensive experience in crafting compelling proposals, drafting detailed manuscripts, and preparing patent applications.

I would also like to highlight my instrumental role in establishing a Patent Cell at my previous institute. Since its inception in September 2024, I have coordinated its activities, reviewed applications, and facilitated discussions with patent attorneys and innovators, assisting colleagues (both scientists and clinicians) with approximately 13 patent applications. Furthermore, I contributed to drafting the patent policy and the establishment of a Section 8 company associated with the institute.

My educational journey is rooted in a multidisciplinary foundation, beginning with my Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Microbiology, and Botany. This diverse training laid the groundwork for my advanced studies, including an MSc in Microbiology and a PhD in Biotechnology. My doctoral research focused on manganite nanoparticles, exploring their innovative applications in targeted cancer hyperthermia, later extended to their use as potent contrast agents for detection.

This work involved the synthesis and characterization of nanoparticles, deepening my understanding of the chemistry and physics behind nanotechnology. My current research combines microbiology to study microbiome profiles, chemistry for ADMET (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity) assessments, and botany to gain insights into herbal formulations. Furthermore, my expertise in molecular biology enables me to investigate mechanisms of action, while my experience in in vivo toxicity and efficacy studies allows for comprehensive therapeutic assessments.

My involvement in clinical trials has further enhanced my understanding of drug development, and two of the researched drugs I contributed to have successfully been launched into the market. This multidisciplinary expertise positions me at the forefront of innovative solutions in cancer research, drug development, and personalized medicine.