Deepika Shekhawat

Motivated and detail-oriented biotechnology researcher with hands-on experience in Molecular Biology, Plant Genomics, and cell culture techniques, with a strong foundation in laboratory data analysis and reporting.

Experience in in vitro and in silico studies. Proven track record in executing independent research in various projects, collaborating on interdisciplinary studies, and contributing to peer-reviewed publications.

Research Assistant - REVA University - Bangalore, KA

(2024-01)

Working as a Research Assistant at REVA University for 1.5 years, actively involved in writing and editing review and research articles. Gained hands-on experience in molecular docking studies, including ligand–protein interaction analysis, visualization, and interpretation of docking results using tools such as AutoDock, PyMOL, and Discovery Studio (BIOVIA). Developed skills in literature survey, data interpretation, scientific writing, and collaborative research.

Project Assistant - CSIR-IHBT - Palampur, H.P. INDIA

(2021-01 - 2021-11)

• Exploring DNA barcode for accurate identification of threatened Aconitum L. species from Western Himalaya and other Himalayan Endangered Species. The study focused on developing an efficient DNA barcoding system for the authentic identification of medicinally important Aconitum species, which are overexploited and listed under the IUCN Red List. Based on these results, species-specific ITS barcodes were developed for accurate identification of Aconitum species, supporting conservation and herbal
• Development of EST-based methylation specific PCR (MSP) markers in Crocus sativus. Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) is a high-value spice crop propagated exclusively through corms due to its sterile nature, resulting in a narrow genetic base despite the presence of considerable phenotypic variability, suggesting a role for epigenetic regulation. In this study, EST-based methylation-specific PCR (MSP) markers were developed to support epigenetic analyses in saffron. Supervisor: Dr. Vandana Jaiswal (Se

MSc Research Trainee - CSIR-IHBT - Palampur, H.P. INDIA

(2020-02 - 2020-08)

Development of Molecular Markers for some important genes in Rosa chinensis. Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers were used to differentiate prickled and prickle-less rose genotypes, addressing the limited application of advanced molecular tools in rose research compared to model plants. Although all six markers showed successful PCR amplification, polymorphism was detected only with the CH4SNP1 marker, which effectively distinguished between prickled and prickle-less roses.

M.Sc. - Biotechnology - VIKRAM University (2018-01 - 2020-12)

B.Sc. - Biotechnology - VIKRAM University (2015-01 - 2018-12)