Research Scientist, Assay Development and Protein Formulations
Resume:
Alok Prabhu
Flushing, NY 11355
PROFILE
Highly motivated results driven applied research professional with around 5 years of solid experience in molecular biology, immunology, biochemistry and analytical chemistry. Conversant in working with clinical samples in accordance with OSHA and GLP guidelines. Talent for mastering new technology. Goal-oriented and ability to handle multiple tasks. Logical and methodological problem solver with excellent analytical skills paying great attention to detail. Excellent interpersonal, people management and cross functional leadership skills.
Flexible and versatile – able to maintain a sense of humor under pressure. Successful in managing time, prioritizing tasks and organizing projects to meet deadlines. Accustomed to handling sensitive and confidential records.
EDUCATION
New York University, Polytechnic Institute; New York, NY 2004 - 2011
Ph.D. Biomedical Engineering (GPA 3.8/4.0)
M.S., Biomedical Engineering (GPA 3.7/4.0)
• Relevant courses: Tissue Engineering, Protein Engineering, Biostatistics, , Biosensors, Enzyme Catalysis, Materials in Medicine, Bioinstrumentation.
Mumbai University, Mumbai 1998 - 2002
B.E. in Instrumentation Engineering
EXPERIENCE
Anzenna Inc.; Brooklyn, NY 06/10 – till date
Scientist, Research and Development
• Designed and optimized multiple test strategies for label-free detection of cancer biomarkers.
• Developed sample preparation and validation assays for detection of Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrheae including DNA extraction/purification, amplification and quantitation.
• Developed and optimized protein formulations for pH, ionic strength and temperature of the buffer solutions.
• Analyzed and designed microfluidic system with different design specifications and fabrication methods to efficiently deliver the sample to the sensing surface of the biosensor device.
• Gained perspective in management, product development, deal structures and market segmentation.
• Wrote and submitted weekly technical reports and SOPs.
Organic Electronics Lab, NYU Poly- Brooklyn, NY 06/06 – 06/11
Research Assistant
• Optimized the design and test setup for detection of protein and DNA binding on a next generation diagnostic platform consisting of Floating Gate Field Effect Transistors.
• Developed a solid-state conducting polymer based ion-selective electrode for trace analysis of dissolved inorganic ions in clinical samples with high concentrations of contaminating proteins.
• Studied protein binding on polyaniline membranes doped with different counter-ions which led to the optimization for its use in the development of ion selective electrodes for immunosensing applications.
• Developed an indium tin oxide based biosensor for detection of Bacillus cereus and Bacillus thuringiensis spores.
Abo Akademi- Turku, Finland 09/09 – 12/09
Visiting Researcher [FiDiPro(Finland distinguished professor program]
• Collaborated with Turku University Hospital (Tyks) for the development of a point-of-care device for rapid label-free detection of C-reactive protein in clinical samples.
• Led a collaboration to investigate the effect of thiolation on polyaniline membranes for DNA immobilization using analytical chemistry methods like EIS, UV-Vis and amperometry.
Tissue Engineering lab, Polytechnic University- Brooklyn, NY 01/04 – 06/06
Graduate Assistant (Lab Manager)
• Maintained cultures of Pheocromocytoma (PC 12) neuronal cells and mouse fibroblasts. Investigated the effect of various ECM protein coated 2D and 3D biodegradable scaffolds on proliferation of PC 12 cells. Designed protocols for fluorescent labeling of the cells. Maintained and serviced the Lab’s equipment on a regular basis.
Teaching Experience:
• Educated and trained graduate and undergraduate students in cell culture techniques, design of immunoassays and use of analytical instruments.
• Conducted summer nanotechnology teaching sessions for New York City high school students during summer 2005-2006.
• Mentored high school student competing for the National Siemens Science Talent search including Miss Shirin Bajaj who was the semifinalist in 2007-2008 competitions.
• Mentored high school students for the Harlem Children Society Science Medicine & Engineering Internship Program 2007.
LEADERSHIP
• Organized, planned and coordinated the ACS IUMACRO – 2007 Conference and Annual SEAM Conferences with research collaborators.
• Represented NYU Poly at the Information Industry Technology Council’s Annual High-Tech Showcase in Washington D.C.
• Presented research at national and international conferences and meetings.
SKILLS
Analytical
UV-Vis-NIR spectrophotometry, FTIR/ATR, TLC, HPLC, GPC, DSC, potentiometry, amperometry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, semiconductor parameter analysis.
Molecular Biology
DNA/RNA extraction/purification, PCR, RT-PCR, ELISA, Protein A assays, chemiluminescence assays, electroluminescence assays, flow cytometry, antibody and DNA labeling and conjugation techniques, AGE, SDS PAGE, western blot, protein forumulation.
Cell Culture and Microbiology
Maintenance of mammalian cell lines including subculture, cell counting, cryo-preservation, cell viability, MTT assay, fluorescent labeling assays. Microbiological techniques (growth assays).
Miscroscopy
Optical microscopy (phase contrast, stereo, polarizing, inverted, fluorescence), Scanning Electron Microscopy, Atomic Force Microscopy.
Computer
Bioinformatics: Vector NTi, ClustalW, BLAST, FASTA, Rasmol (software), NCBI, EMBL, Entrez, GenBank, Uniprot, Swiss-prot, PROSITE, PDB (databases).
Programming and Productivity: Microsoft Office, Microsoft Visio, SAS, Labview, MATLAB, AutoCAD, C++ and Visual Basic.
Operating system: Windows XP/Vista/7, Mac OS-X.
AWARDS
• Graduate Research Fellowship awarded by the department of Chemical and Biological Sciences. (2006-2008)
• Graduate Assistantship award from the Dean’s Office (2004 – 2006).
PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIP
Member of the American Chemical Society
REFERENCES
Available upon request
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