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Vishakha Aggarwal

@vishakhaaggarwal

Molecular biology researcher with plant gene-expression experience, who evaluated 66 primer pairs for nitrogen-sensitive genes in barley.

Germany

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At the Leibniz Institute of Plant Biochemistry, I genotyped tomato samples, prepared RNA and cDNA, and ran qPCR assays to analyze jasmonate-related gene expression. My results showed selective upregulation of SIJOX1 in MYC1-OE and SICYP94B2 in MYC2-OE plants.

For my barley research, I evaluated 66 primer pairs for nitrogen-sensitive genes using gradient PCR and identified sets with consistent, specific amplification. I’ve also analyzed barley microarray data and studied plant gene expression and physiology using RT-qPCR, protein assays, and microscopy.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Validation and Evaluation of Primers of Nitrogen-Sensitive Genes in Barley

Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg

Sep 2025 - Jun 2026 (9 months)

Evaluated 66 primer pairs targeting nitrogen-responsive genes using gradient PCR, assessing specificity and optimal annealing temperatures under different nitrogen-supply conditions.

PCR Primer Design Gradient PCR Gene Expression Analysis Nitrogen Responsive Genes

Research Internship

Leibniz Institute of Plant Biochemistry

Sep 2024 - Dec 2024 (3 months)

Performed genotyping of tomato samples using direct PCR and analyzed jasmonate-related gene expression via qPCR, including data analysis using the ΔCt method.

PCR Genotyping Methods RNA Isolation CDNA Conversion qPCR Agarose gel electrophoresis Data Analysis

Research

M.R.D. Life Science Institute

Jun 2019 - Jul 2019 (1 month)

Performed protein isolation, estimation, and enzyme activity assays, gaining practical exposure to protein and nucleic acid analysis techniques.

Protein Isolation Protein Estimation (Lowry Bradford)Enzyme Activity Assays SDS PAGE Western Blot Southern Blot Northern Blotting Cloning Transformation Fermentation Chromatography

Research

Helix Biogenesis Institute

Jun 2018 - Jun 2018 (0 months)

Isolated and purified genomic and plasmid DNA, prepared media, cultured E. coli, and practiced PCR primer design and optimization.

DNA Extraction Plasmid DNA Isolation PCR Primer Design Agarose gel electrophoresis Laboratory Practices

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg

Master of Science, Molecular and Cellular Biosciences

2021 -

Pursuing M.Sc. in Molecular and Cellular Biosciences with a master's thesis on validation and evaluation of nitrogen-responsive candidate gene primers in barley under N-limitation.