The dream of becoming a scientist has always been a part of my life. Being raised in an educated and stable family has enriched my life with high values and principles. In addition to being my staunchest supporter, my husband shares equal responsibility for my educational goals, which I consider a blessing.
Science has always fascinated me since I was in higher secondary school. The article A decade of molecular cell biology: achievements and challenges intensified my interest in science. At school, despite only being exposed to major concepts in biology, I became intrigued by terms such as cells, genes, tissues, microbes, etc., which led me to apply for admission to SRM University, Chennai, India, for a Bachelor of Technology in Genetic Engineering as the main course.

I was exposed to many fields of study during my graduation, such as cell biology, immunology, molecular biology, recombinant DNA technology, human genetics, animal cell culture and transgenic technology, etc. I also gained practical knowledge of immunology, molecular techniques, recombinant DNA technology, gene expression, animal cell culture, bioinformatics, and microbiology in my laboratory classes. During classroom seminars, I was actively involved in making presentations, which was a significant source of progress in my science learning. In addition, I have coordinated and managed various interdepartmental events that have helped me improve my leadership and communication skills.
During my graduation, I worked on my thesis project, “Role of AGT and IL-6 polymorphisms in association with Intracranial Aneurysms in Kerala population”, at Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB), India, for five months under the guidance and supervision of well experienced and successful scientist Dr Moinak Banerjee, President of Indian Society of Human Genetics (ISHG). The project involves isolating DNA from both case and control samples and screening for AGT and IL-6 polymorphisms in Intracranial Aneurysm (IA) patients, analyzing the association between the SNPs associated with IA in the Kerala population, as well as comparing genotypic and allelic frequencies of the SNPs among the world population.
Even though I strongly intended to direct my career towards research, I did not get a clear research direction in my early college years. I, therefore, decided to pursue a master’s degree in molecular medicine at the Amrita Institute of Nanosciences and Molecular Medicine.
My postgraduate program in molecular medicine encompassed approximately 20 courses across basic molecular biology and cell biology. The field of cancer biology fascinated me the most. Therefore, I worked on the final year project “Development and characterization of a tissue-engineered 3D prostate cancer model”. This project involves fabricating a 3D microfibrous scaffold featuring an architecture replicating the tumour microenvironment that prostate cancer cells are exposed to in-vivo. I have received more than a year of research experience. I have gained extensive experience in cell culture, including 2D and 3D cultures, tissue engineering, protein embedding, staining techniques, electrospinning, cryosectioning techniques, microscopy, etc. Additionally, I have been involved in teaching students at the undergraduate level.
The field of immunology also fascinates me, and I believe it can benefit not only individuals but also the community and society at large. An ideal professional is not just born from reading books; I believe that a perfect professional is best cultivated through practice. To gain more practical experience in Immunology, I decided to volunteer in a research and development lab. Hence, I approached TechInvention Lifecare, India, in March 2022 as a Research Associate, and I am fortunate enough to work with them presently. The current projects involve the development of novel antibodies against SARS-CoV-2, Chikungunya, and CMV. I have gained extensive experience in this position, including establishing a cell culture facility, meticulous experimental planning to meet program objectives, process documentation and validation, writing standard operating procedures, regular literature mining and keeping up to date with developments in the field of antibody development.
Additionally, I have developed an effective communication network with procurement suppliers, researchers, and scientists. I have extensive experience in cloning, plasmid purification, PCR, transformation, cell adaptation into serum-free media, transfection, and protein purification during this period. Each time I get some findings, I would like to do a detailed analysis of the experiment, try different aspects, and figure out why it is going that way. Unfortunately, I cannot do more than that due to the limited capabilities of the platform where I am working. Therefore, I am more determined to pursue a doctoral degree and a research career. In recognition of my passion and sincerity, my management valued me above expectations. With this experience, I foresee the University of Nevada, Reno, as the right destination to fulfil my dreams and achieve my research goals.
I have chosen The States to continue my advanced Cellular and Molecular Biology studies only after diligent research. The USA is well-known for its pragmatic approach towards education that relies majorly on skill-building and industry exposure. I seek, with intensity, to study in a developed world setting and to get first-hand exposure to some of the world’s best-managed research centres. My decision to study for my PhD at the University of Nevada is well-derived. The syllabus of my chosen course focuses on the core aspects of immunology and cellular microbiology comprehensively: a knowledge objective that is critical to me.
My further research into the University also revealed that education methods are bespoke, and the University offers progressive opportunities through its Start-Up Incubators and Alumni Networks. With belief, I believe that I will be able to realize my knowledge aspirations on the diverse campus that UoN boasts of. Through my higher education in the USA, I aim to develop my life skills and challenge my self-reliance abilities. I am confident that with my distinct set of social values and technical knowledge, I will be able to collaborate effectively with the brilliant student community at the institution.
After colossal research, I found that the Doctoral training programme offered by your University is robust, systematic, and flexible, which will complement my requirements and needs as I plan and write my research paper. Along with this application, I am submitting my research proposal titled, ‘enter the title’, for your consideration. It highlights my awareness of the current developments and debates within the field of immunology and biology. The leading faculty and carefully-designed programme will also introduce me to various research methodologies undertaken inside the ecosystem. I am excited to develop neo-modern skills and equip broader knowledge to become a learned researcher in my chosen field.
Undoubtedly, every project and activity I have been involved in has had a significant impact on increasing my confidence, aiding me in understanding different scientific concepts, and helping me shape my research interests. Therefore, I consider myself a good researcher as I possess the qualities and perseverance required. A doctoral research degree would give me a chance to be a stepping stone to my career as a scientist. Furthermore, I strongly believe God has always guided me in the right direction and helped me achieve my goals. Studying at the University of Nevada, Reno, would be an honour since it would be a logical extension of my academic pursuits and an important step toward achieving my goals. I conclude that it is my earnest desire to get accepted into your University’s doctoral program. It enables me to focus on my primary research objective and advocate change in this field. I, thus, solicit this statement of purpose to pursue the PhD and realize my vocational goals.
Thank You,