Admissions 2020
- Molecular Biology and Genetics
- Evolutionary and Integrative Biology
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Ph.D /MS(Engg.) /MS(Research) Admissions 2020 |
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Fee: Rs.500/- paid Date: |
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| Qualifying Degree | Status | Year of Passing |
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| M.Sc. (Life Sciences) | Passed | 2020 |
| National Entrance Test | Year and Month | Roll Number | Rank | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JOINT CSIR UGC NET for JRF | 2018 - 12 (UGC fellow only) | 316692 | 76 | 114.5 |
| 12 std / PUC | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 10 std / SSLC | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| Integrated M.Sc. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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1 Dr. Rahul Das (email:rahul.das@iiserkol.ac.in, Phone:033-66340000 Ex, Address:Assistant Professor, Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Kolkata) - As a project Guide
2 Dr. Sreeramaiah Gangappa (email:ngsreeram@iiserkol.ac.in, Phone:0336136000-1338, Address:Assistant Professor & Ramalingaswami Fellow Department of Biological Sciences Indian Institute of Science Education and research Kolkata) - As a Teacher
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Question 1 What is it about research as a career that interests you the most? In which subject area(s) would you like to pursue research? What led you to choose this area of research? Response to Question 1 Right from primary school, I expressed significant concern in nature and its secrets, and the passion for biology grew stronger with time. With a profound interest in basic science, I joined the integrated BS-MS program at IISER Kolkata. The interdisciplinary course structure allowed me to explore new perspectives in addressing a problem. To complement my theoretical training with practical experiences, I engaged in research projects during my summer breaks. My research experiences with Dr. Malabika Biswas at BITS Pilani and Prof. Hatha at CUSAT led me to develop a strong inclination towards molecular microbiology. For my master's thesis, I joined Dr. Rahul Das's molecular signaling lab in IISER Kolkata. I tried to elucidate the biphasic interaction of ZAP-70 with CD3ζ, two crucial proteins present at the beginning of T cell signaling. Life at IISER Kolkata fortified my desire to be part of a research community working towards a better tomorrow. My experiences have made me believe that all experiments and discoveries are essential; even you might not precisely predict how it would benefit our society. The purpose of the invention is to connect the dots; eventually, it will lead to a bigger picture. I realize the importance of unraveling the molecular and cellular mechanisms behind different phenomenons and diseases to develop proper treatment and preventions. To continue my path in research, I fixed to pursue doctoral studies in molecular life science. Question 2 Describe any project, or laboratory experiment, or research-oriented training programme that you have been involved in. Please highlight the aspects that you particularly enjoyed. Response to Question 2 My master's thesis with Dr. Rahul Das at IISER Kolkata focused on ZAP-70, a Syk family kinase present at the beginning of T cell signaling. ZAP-70 activation upon binding to ITAMs of CD3ζ chains denotes the central event of T cell signaling. Being one of the primary proteins to respond to T cell receptor activation, ZAP-70 demands a thorough investigation of its structural and regulatory features. Interestingly ZAP-70 reported having nearly 2.5 times lower binding affinity towards ITAM ζ3 peptide than that of ITAM ζ1. Despite the high sequence similarity of all three CD3ζ ITAMs, why ZAP-70 displays differential binding affinities? My objective was to design experiments that will shed more light on the distinct interaction of ZAP-70 with ITAM ζ3 peptide. For that, I primarily expressed and purified the ZAP-70 tSH2 domain through Ni NTA affinity, anion exchange, and size exclusion chromatography. Later I employed intrinsic tryptophan fluorescence studies with ZAP-70 and CD3 Zeta ITAM-3 peptide and determined the binding affinities. Stopped flow and Isothermal titration calorimetry experiments gave kinetic and thermodynamic parameters, respectively. I also performed thermal denaturation studies to check the stability of binding. Our results show that ZAP-70 binds to ITAM ζ3 peptide via a biphasic binding pattern and a delay observed in contrast to ITAM ζ1. Delay indicates the possible regulatory role of CD3 ITAM ζ3. Question 3 State the reasons on why you want to opt for JNCASR for your advanced research / academic studies. Response to Question 3 While searching for an opportunity to work and excel in an enthusiastic research group, I found the Ph.D. program at the Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCSAR). I was instantly intrigued by the quality of ongoing research activities in microbiology and molecular biology. After obtaining my Ph.D. degree, I want to eventually mature into an independent researcher in an academic environment working on molecular microbiology interface. I believe being a Ph.D. student at JNCSAR is the perfect start I need to accomplish my goals. Another factor determining the quality of research is the lab atmosphere. A supportive lab group and a healthy working environment can maintain an excellent mental state and help solve our problems more efficiently. Remarks of the current Ph.D. fellows are assuring, and I firmly believe that the Ph.D. program at Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research will provide top-class research facilities and a nurturing environment. |
| I declare that all the information and entries of marks are correct to the best of my knowledge and belief. If admitted, I shall obey all the rules and regulations of the Centre. | |
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Date of submission : 30-11-2020 Date of printing : 17-01-2021 |
Signature of the Applicant
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| Observation & Recommendation |
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