Prachi Varshney

Background

About Prachi Varshney

Seeking a Research Scientist position at a Biotechnology or Food or Pharmaceutical company. I have 10 years of experience in designing, developing, and optimizing upstream and downstream biotechnological processes and scaling them up from bench-top to pilot scale, for the production of biofuels, bio-based chemicals, and high-value food and feed products. Proficient in microbial isolation and culturing (bacteria, algae, and fungi), microbial physiology, extraction and purification of biomolecules (Physical, Chemical, and Supercritical Extractions, Micro- and Ultra-Filtration), biochemical assays, spectrophotometry, and photosynthetic performance studies in algae as evidenced by 5 peer-reviewed journal publications, 3 book chapters, and 5+ international conference presentations. Skilled in experimental design (using DoE), operating bench-scale bioreactors and open raceway ponds, biomass processing, bench-scale fermentation, enzyme production, and employing chromatography techniques (HPLC, IC, HPTLC, LC-MS) for the identification & quantification of biomolecules (sugars, carotenoids, fatty acids, and amino acids), leading to the development of in-house processes for producing 2G ethanol and cellulase enzyme complexes. Adept in recording the results of laboratory trials, statistically analyzing large data sets, writing and presenting results, leading to timely submissions of progress reports, passing annual reviews, and publication of newsletter and journal articles. Demonstrated expertise in project management, driving technology development within cross-functional teams in both academic and industrial settings, and managing multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment as evidenced by 7 current and 3 previous collaborations spanning 6 countries. Possesses strong communication and interpersonal skills, capable of conveying scientific ideas and technical data to diverse customers as evidenced by 5+ conference presentations, 1 distinguished EU research grant award of €213887, and 4 international travel grant awards of Proficient in leading and mentoring team members in experimental planning, data analysis, report writing, instrument operation, and troubleshooting. Proven ability to resolve conflicts and achieve team and organizational goals, as evidenced by successfully managing a group of research students and support staff. Skilled in capital procurement and facility development as evidenced by the establishment of a high-end microalgal biotechnology laboratory with 10 capital instruments worth € at an average of 25% discount