Dheeraj Kumar

Molecular biology graduate with 4+ years of experience in nucleic acid extraction, PCR-based diagnostics, and Oxford Nanopore sequencing, currently leading a research initiative applying long-read sequencing to molecular classification of pediatric leukemias. Seeking to bring hands-on genomic lab expertise and Python/R data analysis skills to a cancer research role, with growing interest in computational approaches to genomics.

Senior Research Associate at The Indus Hospital and Health Network (2024-07 – Present)

• Lead data management for a pediatric oncology research cohort, overseeing records for 1,300+ samples processed across Oxford Nanopore sequencing batches, covering leukemias and solid tumors.
• Drive a research initiative applying Oxford Nanopore sequencing for affordable molecular classification of pediatric leukemias in resource-limited settings — directly relevant experience in cancer-focused molecular characterization.
• Personally performed sample processing, library preparation, and Nanopore MinION sequencing for 200+ samples as part of this initiative.
• Contribute to development of consent-taking protocols for molecular research studies.

Molecular Medical Technologist at The Indus Hospital and Health Network (2022-04 – 2024-06)

• Conducted diagnostic molecular testing including DNA/RNA extraction, ARMS-PCR, qRT-PCR, and gel electrophoresis in a high-throughput clinical laboratory setting.
• Managed sample receipt, instrument maintenance, data evaluation, and quality-assurance compliance.

Research Project Intern at KIBGE, University of Karachi (2021-10 – 2022-03)

• Investigated Methicillin- and Vancomycin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus for final-year research project, performing DNA extraction, PCR, and gel electrophoresis; co-authored a peer-reviewed publication on a multiplex resistance-gene identification system.

Genomics Intern at International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences (ICCBS) (2021-06 – 2021-09)

• Gained hands-on experience in core molecular biology and genetic analysis, including DNA extraction and Sanger sequencing; assisted with documentation and interpretation of genetic sequences — prior exposure to the ICCBS research environment.

B.S. in Bioscience – Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto Institute of Science and Technology (SZABIST) (2018 – 2022)