Rakesh Loya
Research Professional-I at Warnell School of Forestry and Natural resources, University of Georgia
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About
Plant science researcher with 10+ years of experience in molecular biology, plant tissue culture, plant breeding support, CRISPR genome editing, and greenhouse operations. Skilled in molecular techniques (PCR, Gibson Assembly), plant transformation, and trait analysis. MSc in Bioscience (Plant Science) with a research publication in a peer-reviewed journal.
Experience
Research Professional-I - University of Georgia - USA
(2024-03)
- Conduct Gibson assembly for CRISPR construct preparation and Agrobacterium-mediated plant transformation.
- Prepare and optimize growth media for plant and bacterial cultures.
- Maintain and propagate plant cultures under sterile tissue culture conditions, including micropropagation of Populus.
- Utilize CRISPR technology for genome editing to improve transformation efficiency.
- Execute and troubleshoot transformation protocols and bacterial culture management.
- Maintain plants in greenhouse and controlled environments.
- Collaborate across multiple projects, attending team meetings and reporting progress.
Research Associate - Tierra Agrotech - India
(2020-03 - 2022-08)
- Standardized and optimized in vitro plant tissue culture protocols for chickpea, including anther culture and microspore culture for double haploid production.
- Performed genetic purity analysis for hot pepper, tomato, and other crops using molecular markers.
- Assessed trait purity in cotton using ELISA and GUS assays.
- Induced polyploidy in chickpeas via chemical treatment.
- Conducted artificial hybridization of chickpea varieties.
- Managed primers, chemicals, and laboratory consumables.
Research Officer - Kaveri Seeds - India
(2017-05 - 2020-03)
- Extracted DNA and performed PCR genotyping for BLB, blast, and BPH resistance genes.
- Assisted in pyramiding multiple resistance genes into rice hybrids using marker-assisted selection.
- Isolated and cultured plant pathogens, including bacterial blight (BLB) and rice blast, from infected plant tissues for downstream analysis.
- Conducted nursery and field trials for disease resistance and agronomic trait evaluation.
- Collected samples for molecular analysis and seed quality testing.
- Collaborated with breeders to integrate molecular data with field observations for hybrid selection.
Manager - Greenic Biotechnologies - India
(2014-11 - 2017-04)
Associated with a plant biotech Start-up Company for commercial tissue culture
Jr. Scientist - KCP Sugar and Industrial Corp Ltd - India
(2013-04 - 2014-10)
- Managed tissue culture, calcium lactate, and biofertilizer production plants.
- Assisted senior scientists with process optimization and product development.
- Supported marketing of tissue culture and biofertilizer products.
Plant Biochemist - Unilever R&D - UK
(2011-09 - 2012-12)
- Evaluated enzymatically modified plant extracts used in Unilever products.
- Conducted biochemical assays and maintained laboratory records.
Content Manager - HowIgotJob.com
(2021-01 - 2022-08)
- Edited and proofread content using company guidelines.
- Managed a team of 30 editors, 500 writers, and 50 recruiters.
- Oversaw employee payments.
Customer Service Advisor - Ventura - Leeds, UK
(2010-10 - 2011-08)
- Resolved inbound technical customer enquiries.
- Monitored personal performance, including call duration and first-time resolution metrics.
Education
MSc - Bioscience (Plant Science) - University of Leeds (2009 - 2010)
B.Tech - Biotechnology - Bharath University (2005 - 2009)
