Grishma Gandhi

Researcher and educator with seven-plus years of research experience in characterization of seaweed extracts, agricultural microbiology, soil biochemistry, and natural product chemistry, gained through advanced research training at CSIR-Central Salt and Marine Chemicals Research Institute (CSIR-CSMCRI), AcSIR — a CSIR National Laboratory under the Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India. Hands-on expertise in analytical instrumentation and sample preparation, including lyophilization/freeze-drying, for extract and metabolite characterization. Holds an M.Sc. in Biotechnology from Saurashtra University as University First Rank and Gold Medalist, and a B.Sc. in Biotechnology.

Author of four peer-reviewed SCI publications with cumulative citations exceeding 51, including articles in Frontiers in Plant Science (IF 6.627) and Algal Research (IF 5.1). Experienced as a postgraduate assistant professor with a proven ability to design experiments and deliver laboratory-based instruction. Experienced in scientific manuscript writing, data analysis, and laboratory techniques.

Skilled in translating complex scientific data into clear, evidence-based content.

Seeking roles as: Scientist / Research Associate / Medical Writer / Microbiologist / Agronomist.

Research Scholar — Characterization of Seaweed Extracts, Plant–Microbe Interactions & Sustainable Agriculture at CSIR-Central Salt & Marine Chemicals Research Institute (CSIR-CSMCRI), AcSIR (Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research) (2017-08 – 2024-11)

DST INSPIRE Junior Research Fellow (August 2017 – September 2020) and subsequently DST INSPIRE Senior Research Fellow (October 2020 – November 2024), conducting advanced research in characterization of seaweed extracts, plant–microbe interactions, soil biology, metabolomics, and sustainable agriculture.

• Conducted independent research on the effect of characterized natural extracts on maize growth, productivity, and soil microbial communities.
• Designed and executed laboratory, greenhouse, and field experiments.
• Prepared and processed samples using lyophilization (freeze-drying) and rotary evaporation, then performed metabolite characterization using GC-MS, LC-MS, HR-MS, HPLC, ICP-MS, and ICP-OES.
• Conducted microbiological, biochemical, enzymatic, and soil biological analyses.
• Published research findings in SCI-indexed international journals.
• Mentored M.Sc. students and assisted in training junior researchers.
• Developed expertise in scientific writing, data analysis, project management, and interdisciplinary research collaboration.

Contractual Assistant Professor — Biosciences at Saurashtra University (2024-01 – 2024-12)

Taught postgraduate (M.Sc.) Biotechnology courses, including lecture delivery and supervision of practical laboratory sessions.

• Designed and conducted experiments covering microbiology, biochemistry, and molecular biotechnology.
• Provided academic guidance and mentoring to students.

Personal Tutor (CBSE Curriculum – Offline & Online) at Self-Employed (2017-01 – 2024-12)

• Provided one-to-one tutoring to CBSE school students (Classes VI–XII) in Science (Biology), Chemistry, and related Life Science subjects.
• 5 years of online teaching experience delivering personalized virtual classes using digital learning platforms.
• Prepared customized lesson plans, assignments, mock tests, and exam-oriented study material aligned with the CBSE curriculum.
• Guided students in concept building, board examination preparation, and improving academic performance through individualized mentoring.

M.Sc. in Biotechnology – Saurashtra University (2014-01 – 2016-12)

B.Sc. in Biotechnology – Saurashtra University (2011-01 – 2014-12)