Soumya Dakshinamurthy

Seeking a remote/virtual research position in virology and molecular diagnostics where I can apply extensive experience in viral sequencing (including Parvovirus B19 genotyping, SARS-CoV-2, Dengue, and HPV), next-generation sequencing (NGS), multiplex PCR-based syndromic diagnostics, bioinformatics analysis, and scientific writing. Committed to advancing viral genomics, diagnostic assay development, and epidemiological research through independent, technology-driven remote collaboration.

Scientist-C | Viral Research and Diagnostic Laboratory (VRDL) - Sri Venkateswara Institute of Medical Sciences (SVIMS), Tirupati, India - Tirupati, India

(2024-12)

Leading molecular diagnostics and sequencing projects in a WHO-supported VRDL facility. Responsible for viral genotyping, NGS-based surveillance, and quality management systems.

• Parvovirus B19 Genotyping: Conducting Sanger sequencing to identify Parvovirus B19 genotypes (1-5) in patients presenting with fever and joint pains; performing phylogenetic analysis and epidemiological characterization of circulating B19 lineages.
• Community-Based HPV NGS Study: Investigating HPV genotypes and variants among women using Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) for community-level prevalence assessment.
• Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) Surveillance: Conducting molecular diagnostics and epidemiological surveillance for HMPV infections.
• Measles-Rubella WHO Project: Performing molecular and serological assays; managing sample inventory and sequencing; conducting internal audits for quality control and compliance.
• Dengue NGS Project: Investigating Dengue virus genetic diversity through NGS; utilizing cell culture techniques for viral propagation.

Research Assistant | VRDL - Sri Venkateswara Institute of Medical Sciences (SVIMS), Tirupati, India - Tirupati, India

(2018-08 - 2024-12)

Comprehensive research on Chikungunya, Dengue, Epstein-Barr, Parvovirus, Cytomegalovirus, Hepatitis, Japanese Encephalitis, HSV1/HSV2, Influenza A/B, Zika, and COVID-19. Specialized in SARS-CoV-2 genomic sequencing and Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) workflows.

• Developed and implemented Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for laboratory practices and equipment maintenance.
• Assessment of diagnostic performance parameters of seven commercial real-time RT-PCR kits for SARS-CoV-2 detection during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Junior Research Fellow (JRF) - Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO), Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati, India - Tirupati, India

(2013 - 2015)

• RNA extraction and RT-PCR for Chikungunya virus research.
• Investigated antiviral activities of ribavirin against Chikungunya virus using fluorescence microscopy.
• Established and maintained C6/36 cell lines for antiviral studies.

Doctoral Researcher - Sri Venkateswara University, Department of Clinical Virology - Tirupati, India

(2010 - 2017)

• Molecular characterization and epidemiology of HPV in cervical cancer; screened 1,035 samples for high-risk HPV serotypes.
• Designed and optimized consensome primers for HPV 16 and HPV 18 detection (E6-E7 early region genes).
• Phylogenetic analysis of HPV strain origins in the Indian population; submitted five HPV 16/18 sequences to NCBI GenBank.
• Conducted comprehensive epidemiological study encompassing 36 socio-demographic and reproductive parameters.

Ph.D. - Virology - Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati, India (2010 - 2017)

Master of Science - Virology - Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati, India (2007 - 2009)