Saravanan Gunaseelan

I am keen to pursue a greater depth of knowledge and understanding in the field of biomedical science. I specialize mainly in clinical development of synthetic or natural compounds against viral-induced diseases. I hope to be able to acquire various new and innovative skills, particularly in research, medical communications and management of industrial collaborations to further scientific research and discovery in the academic world.

Undergraduate Research Opportunity Project (UROPS) Aug 13 to Aug 14

• Successfully constructed the viral bicistronic and replicon systems for downstream drug screening against Human Enterovirus A71, a potent etiological agent of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease
• Received an A+ for the module, which was awarded to the top 2% of the cohort
• Gained expertise in handling mammalian cell culture, transfection, and cloning techniques along with downstream luminescence and fluorescence assays
• Interacted with many senior researchers and professors of the Department of Microbiology and Immunology in National University of Singapore to help further research idea(s) pertaining to the project

• Screened a 502 flavonoid library and found a novel, effective and potent drug to combat against Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease.
• Acquired proficiency in viral techniques (i.e., propagation, infection, plaque assays), managing animal models, histology techniques, fluorescent microscopy, and immunoblotting skills
• Received an A+ for the module, which was awarded to the top 2% of the cohort 
• Supervised and trained new undergraduate students and staff of the Department of Microbiology and Immunology in National University of Singapore

National University of Singapore Aug 12 to Aug 16

Bachelor of Social Sciences with Honours (Highest Distinction) – Biomedical Sciences

• Cumulative Average Point (CAP): 4.62
• Placed on Dean’s List for both semesters in 3rd year of study (Aug 14/Jan 15), which is awarded to top 5% of the total undergraduate cohort in Faculty of Science
• Maintained a CAP above 4.50 throughout the 4 years of study