Could you give a few information about yourself and your scientific background, including previous studies and obtained degrees?

I studied Bachelor’s in Biotechnology at Vellore Institute of Technology in India. Then, I moved to the Netherlands for the MSc Biology programme at Leiden University. Studying in both countries was a transformative experience wherein I found my passion for microbial sciences, particularly, infection biology.

Could you provide details about your scientific research, and previous projects, listing your key expertise and skills?

I gained diverse research experience across my two MSc internships. First, I studied how heavy metal pollutants impact the growth and antibiotic production ability of Streptomyces bacteria, common soil-dwelling microbes well known for producing a diverse array of antibiotics.
Second, for my MSc thesis, I explored the interplay of host immune defense mechanisms, phagocytosis and autophagy against Mycobacterium marinum, close relative of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the causative agent of tuberculosis.
These experiences provided me proficiency in mammalian cell culture, handling pathogenic bacteria, performing co-immunoprecipitation, Western blotting, and confocal microscopy.

What was the motivation for joining the AUREUS project?

This project offers an excellent opportunity to advance my interest in deciphering intricate host-pathogen interactions. I was also attracted to this multi-disciplinary network which enables idea exchange, and explore new environments via secondments, laying the perfect foundation for my future career.

What is the motivation and aim of your PhD project?

Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is an opportunistic pathogen responsible for a plethora of diseases. Wall teichoic acids (WTA) are major constituents of S. aureus cell envelope. My PhD project focuses on studying different WTA structures and explore its interaction with both host’s innate immune and adaptive immune recognition systems via scavenger receptors and immunoglobulins respectively.

Could you write a few sentences about yourself, your hobbies, interests?

My interests include following cricket and football league matches, watching movies and language learning (currently German!). I also enjoy reading philosophy, mythology and traveling to new places.