Minesh Roy

I am a highly motivated and detail-oriented Research Assistant with a strong background in biomedical sciences, specialising in genomics, molecular biology, and laboratory techniques. Currently working at the Wellcome Genome Campus in Cambridge, I am part of the Cellular Operations Spatial Genomics team, where I contribute to cutting-edge research in Spatial Transcriptomics (ST), RNAscope, and Xenium. My role involves performing histology-based assays, RNA extraction, and tissue sample processing, ensuring high-quality data generation for groundbreaking research projects.

With hands-on experience in various laboratory techniques, including qPCR, RT-PCR, Illumina Next-Generation Sequencing, and histology processes like embedding, microtomy, and staining I thrive in dynamic research environments. My expertise extends to operating advanced machinery such as liquid handling robots (Hamilton STAR, Dragonfly), sequencing instruments (NovaSeq 6000), and microscopy systems (Operetta, Hamamatsu S60).

Prior to my current role, I worked with the DNA Pipelines Heron Project team, sequencing COVID-19 samples, and contributed to a project on horizontal gene flow in ocean bacteria at the Wellcome Sanger Institute. My earlier experience includes roles in cellular pathology at St George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and as a Laboratory Technician in human clinical trials at hVIVO.

I am passionate about leveraging my skills in data analysis, troubleshooting, and process improvement to drive innovation in biomedical research. My goal is to continue advancing my expertise in genomics and molecular biology while contributing to impactful scientific discoveries.

Wellcome Genome Campus, Cambridge (Apr 2023 - Apr 2025) 

Research Assistant.

• Part of the Cellular Operations Spatial Genomics team, working on cutting-edge genomic technologies such as Spatial Transcriptomics (ST), RNAscope and Xenium.
• Perform histology-based Spatial Genomic assays, contributing to high-quality data generation for research teams.
• Trained in RNA extraction in both FFPE, FF and Paxgene, using machinery such as NanoDrop, EZ2 and Qiacube.
• Responsible for processing tissue samples using techniques like embedding (Tissue-Tek 5), and microtomy, for Formalin-Fixed Paraffin-Embedded (FFPE) and cryo-embedding and cryo-sectioning for Fresh Frozen (FF) samples.
• Hands-on experience with histology processes, including staining tissue samples using HE stains.
• Trained in specialised techniques such as RNAscope (using Lecia Bond), although not currently active in the department.
• Identify and troubleshoot methods to improve processes within the team.
• Participate in scaling and developing new genomic assays and processes, focusing on molecular biology and imaging techniques using machinery such as Operetta, Phoenix and Hamamatsu S60.
• Maintain accurate records and ensure proper documentation for all experiments and sample processing.

Research Assistant.

• Part of the DNA Pipelines Heron Project team, sequencing positive COVID-19 tests from Lighthouse Labs. 
• Gained competency in several molecular biology techniques, including qPCR, RT-PCR, PCR and Illumina Next-Generation Sequencing. 
• Gained competency in converting RNA to cDNA by performing reverse transcription using Lunascript MasterMix.
• Experience in sample management of human Covid-19 RNA samples. Learned to cherry-pick and transfer human samples using liquid handling robots such as Dragonfly discovery, Beckman coulter and Agilent Bravo. 

Research Assistant

• Assisting a project studying horizontal gene flow in ocean bacterial samples to sequence the vast array of Vibrio bacteria species currently without a sequenced genome. 
• Manually processing hundreds of samples, carrying out bacterial cell culturing in a CL2 lab environment for DNA prep and extraction using the QIAcube. 
• Following SOP guidelines whilst also using critical thinking and collaboration to troubleshoot and amend any issues. 
• Maintaining excellent documentation throughout extensive sample processing by implementing an effective spreadsheet to track the workflow better and include details about specific phenotypes or abnormalities.

Biomedical support worker Cellular Pathology in three different departments: Cytology, Histology and immunocytochemistry.

• Cytology - responsible for staining the slide for MGG as well as the slides for PAP
• General maintenance of PAP and MGG machines. 
• Assisting consultants on their rounds in FNA and EBUS clinics and assisting in diagnosis by quick stain techniques. 
• Assist in preparation of slides by processing cerebrospinal fluid, urine, pleural fluid, bile stents and bronchial-alveolar lavage etc. 
• Histology - organising specimens and assisting consultants in dissection.
• Setting up the Haematoxylin and Eosin (HE) staining machine. 
• General household duties including stock management; monitoring of equipment and preparation of solutions. 
• Trainer and emergency first aider. 

Laboratory Technician 

• Worked as a laboratory technician in Human Clinical Trials Division processing samples according to SOPs and GCP and required guidelines set by clients and sponsors. 
• Samples processed include nasal washes, urine, and blood (serum, serology, plasma). 
• Data quality control. 
• Maintenance of laboratory equipment e.g. centrifuge, freezer, incubators and fume cupboards.

Analytical Chemist

• Analysis of Administration of EU drug testing standards including control and non-control drugs. 
• Analytical techniques include the use of HPLC, Osmoregulation, IR and Dilutionary equipment. 
• Produce reports for external contractors to ensure various drug batches met the EU standards. 
• Trained new members and existing staff in the analysis of drugs. 

• Brunel University, London 2016 - 2018 MSc Molecular Medicine and Cancer Research, Pass Brunel University, London 2013 - 2016 BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science, 2:2 
• Preston Manor School 6th Form, London 2010 – 2013 A Level: Biology (B), Maths (B), Chemistry (C) 
• Swaminarayan School, London 2007 - 2010 GCSE: 4 A’s including Maths and Biology, 5 B’s including English language and literature, 2 C’s.