Hashir Butt (MXA)

Agricultural Biotechnologist specializing in molecular genetics, crop genomics, and plant molecular breeding. Demonstrates hands-on expertise in CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing selection, SSR marker profiling, chemical mutagenesis (EMS), and molecular fingerprinting across major crop species (Triticum aestivum and Solanum lycopersicum). Proven track record in executing molecular diagnostic assays, plant tissue culture, and population genetic analysis (UPGMA/diversity indexing).

Combines advanced laboratory research with practical field diagnostics and extension experience.

Molecular Genomics Intern - Genomics & Systems Biology at Prof Dr. Faisal Saeed Awan's Laboratory, University of Agriculture Faisalabad (2025-05 – Present)

• Performed molecular fingerprinting on wheat and tomato breeding lines, utilizing SSR markers to confirm hybridity, evaluate parentage, and assess genetic purity and safety practices.
• Documented and catalogued DNA fingerprint profiles for parent and hybrid lines to maintain an organized genetic reference database for crop improvement tracking.
• Conducted high-throughput SSR marker profiling to detect polymorphism, resolve co-dominant alleles, and differentiate parental genotypes from commercial hybrids.
• Executed routine nucleic acid extraction, PCR amplification, and gel electrophoresis to generate clear, reproducible DNA banding patterns for accurate allele scoring.
• Trained and supervised junior interns on standard laboratory protocols, including proper micro pipetting, reagent preparation, thermal cycler programming.

Agriculture Graduate Intern - CM Punjab's Internship Scheme at Office of Deputy Director Agriculture (Extension), Faisalabad (2025-09 – 2026-09)

• Provided crop-health and disease-management guidance through field diagnosis, symptom assessment, demonstrations, and farmer consultations.
• Translated plant pathology and crop-stress information into practical recommendations and contributed to public-sector agricultural initiatives.
• Supported biotech laboratory diagnostic workflows, utilizing molecular and physiological assays to confirm field-identified disease symptoms and stress responses.
• Collected, processed, and maintained field samples for lab analysis, ensuring accurate sample preparation for nucleic acid extraction and tissue testing.

M.Sc. Thesis Researcher - Molecular Profiling of EMS Wheat Mutants at Genomics And Fingerprinting Laboratory, University of Agriculture Faisalabad (2024-01 – 2026-06)

• Applied Ethyl Methane sulfonate (EMS) chemical mutagenesis to induce genetic variability in wheat lines and systematically screened populations for agronomic trait variations.
• Executed high-throughput CTAB DNA extraction protocols, evaluating DNA concentration and purity to ensure optimal template quality for downstream molecular applications.
• Designed and optimized PCR cycling profiles using Simple Sequence Repeat (SSR) primers to identify polymorphism and track allele segregation in mutant populations.
• Performed gel electrophoresis (PAGE/agarose) to resolve micro-satellite alleles, accurately scoring bands to distinguish homozygous and heterozygous mutant lines.
• Analyzed genetic similarity matrices and constructed UPGMA dendrograms to evaluate genetic distance, diversity metrics, and overall population structure among wheat mutants.

Research Intern - Plant Molecular Biology & Genetic Engineering at Wheat Lab, NIBGE (2024-03 – 2024-05)

• Screened CRISPR-Cas9 transformed wheat plants using selective antibiotic media, identifying successful transformants and assessing trait integration efficiency.
• Designed specific primer sequences for target gene loci and optimized PCR amplification protocols to confirm transgenic inserts and allele variations.
• Confirmed transgene integration using DNA extraction, PCR, agarose/PAGE gel electrophoresis, and gel documentation.
• Prepared MS, YEP, and LB media, buffers, and stock solutions under sterile conditions; supported tissue-culture and workflows.
• Applied aseptic tissue culture techniques to support the growth, maintenance, and acclimatization of targeted wheat lines under controlled lab conditions.

M.Sc. (Hons.) in Agricultural Biotechnology – Centre of Agricultural Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Agriculture Faisalabad (2024-01 – 2026-06)

B.Sc. (Hons.) in Agricultural Biotechnology – Centre of Agricultural Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Agriculture Faisalabad (2020-01 – 2024-01)