Komal Thorat
PhD Research Fellow | Molecular Genetics | Plant Biotechnology
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About
Research Scientist with 7+ years of experience in plant molecular genetics, genomics, and marker-assisted breeding in ICAR-funded national research programs. Proven expertise in QTL mapping, GWAS, SNP/SSR genotyping, candidate gene discovery, and trait dissection in grapevine. Strong industry-aligned skills in high-throughput genotyping, data analysis, SOP-based lab operations, cross-functional collaboration, and regulatory documentation.
Published researcher with hands-on experience translating genomic data into breeding-ready markers.
Experience
Senior Research Fellow (Research Scientist Role) - ICAR – National Research Centre for Grapes - Pune
(2023-01)
Led molecular genetics experiments for trait discovery and validation under ICAR/DBT/DST projects
- Designed and executed workflows for DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, qPCR, SSR and SNP genotyping
- Conducted GWAS and QTL mapping for grape bunch and berry traits using R, TASSEL, and ICIMapping
- Identified and prioritized candidate genes from significant genomic regions
- Integrated phenotypic and genotypic datasets for trait-marker association
- Performed SNP filtering, annotation, and genotype quality control
- Ensured SOP compliance, data integrity, and instrument calibration
- Prepared technical reports, grant deliverables, and research manuscripts
- Mentored junior researchers and coordinated lab-field activities
Junior Research Fellow - ICAR – National Research Centre for Grapes - Pune
(2019-08 - 2022-06)
- Executed high-throughput genotyping using SSR and SNP markers
- Constructed linkage maps and performed QTL analysis for complex agronomic traits
- Conducted qPCR-based expression profiling of candidate genes
- Collected and analyzed field phenotyping data under vineyard conditions
- Used JoinMap, MapDisto, QTL Cartographer, and R/qtl for mapping and analysis
- Supported manuscript writing and regulatory submissions
- Maintained accurate lab records and field documentation
Young Professional-II - ICAR – National Research Centre for Grapes - Pune
(2018-09 - 2019-06)
- Worked on gene cloning and functional validation of abiotic stress-responsive genes
- Performed plant tissue culture, somatic embryogenesis, and transformation support
- Assisted in quality control, lab inventory, and workflow optimization
- Built foundation in industry-relevant stress tolerance research
Education
Ph.D. - Biotechnology - Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU)
M.Sc. - Agricultural Biotechnology - Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krushi Vidyapeeth (PDKV)
B.Sc. - Agricultural Biotechnology - Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krushi Vidyapeeth (PDKV)
