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Varun Chandrasekar

@varunchandrasekar

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Ph.D. biophysicist specializing in deep learning and computational biology.

United States

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What I'm looking for

I seek a collaborative environment that fosters innovation and growth in computational biology.

I am a Ph.D. biophysicist with over 7 years of research experience in experimental biomolecular systems, currently focusing on deep learning and computational biology. My expertise in Python and deep learning frameworks like PyTorch and TensorFlow has enabled me to develop predictive models for RNA structure and biomolecular interactions. I pride myself on being a creative and independent thinker, with a strong publication and presentation record that reflects my commitment to advancing scientific knowledge.

Throughout my academic journey, I have contributed significantly to various research projects, including the development of innovative drug delivery carriers inspired by magnetotactic bacteria and the optimization of RNA polymerization processes. My work has not only enhanced our understanding of synthetic biology but has also led to practical applications in drug discovery and biomimicry. I have authored numerous technical reports and presented my findings at various conferences, showcasing my ability to communicate complex scientific concepts effectively.

As I continue my research, I am eager to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to push the boundaries of biophysics and computational biology. I am particularly interested in projects that leverage machine learning to solve biological problems, and I am committed to contributing to advancements in this exciting field.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Graduate Researcher

University of Manchester

Sep 2021 - Present (3 years 10 months)

Developed magnetotactic bacteria-inspired drug delivery carriers using self-assembled liquid crystal-ferrofluid dispersions, incorporating lipid coatings and protein conjugation. Designed analytical platforms for micro-scale viscosity measurement and cultured Magnetospirillum gryphiswaldense for comparative studies.

Liquid Crystal Ferrofluid Microfluidics Biochemistry Technical Writing SOPs

Graduate Teaching Assistant

University of Manchester

Aug 2021 - Present (3 years 11 months)

Tutored undergraduate students in Mathematics, Physics, and Astronomy, providing academic support and clarifying complex concepts. Graded semester coursework and exams.

Tutoring Academic Support Grading Mathematics

Master’s Student Researcher

Ludwig Maximilian University (LMU) of Munich

Oct 2020 - Present (4 years 9 months)

Designed and executed non-enzymatic RNA polymerization, ligation, and primer extension experiments, optimizing reaction conditions to maximize yield. Applied mechanistic and numerical modeling with COMSOL and LabVIEW to simulate RNA reaction kinetics, integrating experimental data to refine process sensitivity.

RNA Polymerization SDS PAGE ESI MS COMSOL Reaction Kinetics

Undergraduate Student Researcher

University of Colorado, Boulder

Aug 2017 - Present (7 years 11 months)

Developed cellulose-based aerogels for thermal insulation and synthesized and characterized nanocellulose materials. Created scalable protocols for energy-efficient aerogel production.

Aerogels Nanocellulose Synthesis Energy Efficiency

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

University of Manchester

Ph.D. in Biophysics, Biophysics

Activities and societies: Authored technical reports, SOPs, and regulatory documentation to support reproducibility and compliance. Presented research at multiple conferences.

Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Biophysics, focusing on experimental biomolecular systems and deep learning applications in computational biology. Research involves developing magnetotactic bacteria-inspired drug delivery carriers and studying liquid crystal-ferrofluid dispersions.

Ludwig Maximilian University (LMU)

M.S. in Physics, Physics

Completed a Master of Science in Physics, with research focused on non-enzymatic RNA polymerization, ligation, and primer extension experiments. Applied mechanistic and numerical modeling with COMSOL and LabVIEW to simulate RNA reaction kinetics.

University of Colorado, Boulder

B.A. in Physics and Mathematics, Physics and Mathematics

Earned a Bachelor of Arts in Physics and Mathematics, developing cellulose-based aerogels for thermal insulation. Synthesized and characterized nanocellulose materials, creating scalable protocols for energy-efficient aerogel production.