Deepa Babu

I am a PhD-trained scientist with over a decade of experience in cell and molecular biology and translational cancer research. My work has focused on developing and applying robust in vitro and in vivo models particularly in pancreatic cancer to understand disease mechanisms and support therapeutic discovery. I enjoy building and optimizing biological assays, working with complex model systems, and collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams to translate scientific ideas into meaningful outcomes.

Staff Research Associate III - University of California San Diego - San Diego, CA

(2022-10)

Full-time | Dr. Andrew M Lowy lab | Department of Surgery (Validating drug targets for PDAC)

• Independently design, execute, and manage complex molecular and cell biology experiments in support of translational cancer research, with a primary focus on pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC).
• Develop, optimize, and perform cell-based and in vitro functional assays, including proliferation, migration, invasion, and viability assays, ensuring reproducibility and high-quality data generation.
• Generate and maintain advanced experimental models, including dual-recombinase genetically engineered mouse models, Liver metastasis models and PDAC organoid systems, to investigate gene function and therapeutic targets.
• Perform hands-on in vivo studies, including orthotopic tumor implantation, drug administration (IV, IP, SC), blood collection, necropsy, and tissue processing (FFPE and OCT).
• Conduct molecular and biochemical assays such as RNA isolation, qPCR, Western blotting, immunofluorescence, and immunohistochemistry to support mechanistic studies.
• Manage rodent colonies, including breeding, genotyping, health monitoring, and compliance with institutional animal care and biosafety regulations.
• Analyze experimental data, maintain accurate laboratory records, and prepare detailed reports, figures, and summaries for manuscripts, presentations, and grant applications.
• Collaborate with faculty, postdoctoral fellows, and cross-disciplinary teams, contributing technical expertise and scientific insight to project planning and execution.
• Mentor and supervise graduate and undergraduate researchers, providing training in experimental techniques, data analysis, and laboratory best practices.
• Maintain a high level of organization, attention to detail, and adherence to timelines in a fast-paced academic research environment.

Post-Doctoral Associate - Indiana School of Medicine - Indianapolis, IN

(2018-01 - 2019-12)

Full time, Dr. Kacena A Melissa lab (Orthopedic surgery)

• Independently designed and executed translational research projects using type 2 diabetic and aging mouse models to investigate mechanisms regulating bone healing and angiogenesis.
• Established and managed complex in vivo studies, including rodent breeding, genotyping, surgical procedures, drug administration, blood collection, and tissue harvesting, in compliance with institutional animal care protocols.
• Performed and optimized molecular, cellular, and immunological assays, including ELISA, flow cytometry (FACS), qPCR, Western blotting, and immunostaining, to assess cellular phenotype and functional outcomes.
• Maintained and expanded mammalian primary cell culture systems, including megakaryocytes, endothelial cells, macrophages, osteoclasts, and bone-derived cells, supporting mechanistic and functional studies.
• Investigated age- and disease-associated cellular interactions influencing bone remodeling, leading to novel insights into megakaryocyte-driven osteoclastogenesis.
• Analyzed and interpreted complex datasets, prepared high-quality figures, and contributed to manuscript preparation, grant applications, and scientific presentations.
• Collaborated closely with multidisciplinary research teams and core facilities, integrating in vivo, in vitro, and analytical approaches to advance project objectives.
• Mentored graduate students, medical students, and undergraduate researchers, providing technical training and scientific guidance.
• Demonstrated strong project ownership, organization, and time management while meeting strict experimental and reporting deadlines.

Ph.D. - Biotechnology/Genetic Engineering - SRM University (2008-01 - 2014-12)

M.Sc - Environmental Biotechnology - Manonmaniam Sundaranar University (2001-01 - 2003-12)