Research Associate (Postdoctoral Fellow)
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I am Dr. Ramesha Hanumanthappa, currently working as a Research Associate–I (Postdoctoral Fellow) at the Bio-INvENT Lab. I recently completed my Ph.D. in the Neurochemistry Lab, Department of Biochemistry, Karnatak University, Dharwad, under the guidance of Prof. K. S. Devaraju. My doctoral research focused on the "Synthesis and Characterization of Drug-Loaded Nanoparticles to Improve the Treatment Strategy for a Parkinson’s Disease Model." Prior to this, I completed my Master’s degree in Biochemistry from the Department of Studies and Research in Biochemistry, Tumkur University, Tumkur. My postgraduate research project, conducted under the guidance of Prof. K S Girish, was titled "Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using Jackfruit Seed Extract: A Beneficial Role in Thrombosis".
I joined the Bio-INvENT Lab as a Research Associate–I (Postdoctoral Fellow) on March 1st, 2025. My current research focuses on a project under the "Network Centre for Research in Glioblastoma Stem Cell-Targeted T-Cell Immunotherapy, utilizing non-genetically engineered mesenchymal stromal cells". This project is funded by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Government of India.
During my Ph.D. research, I gained hands-on experience with various experimental models and techniques. I worked extensively with Rotenone-induced Parkinson’s disease models (mice, rats, and Drosophila). I am proficient in drug administration via multiple routes. I also conducted behavioral assessments (narrow beam walking, pole climb-down, wire hanging, and negative geotaxis tests). My training includes animal dissection and organ collection procedures. Additionally, I have technical expertise in cell culture techniques, including the isolation and culture of PBMCs, human T-cells, SH-SY5Y, and Jurkat cell lines. I have experience in the synthesis and characterization of drug-loaded polymeric and lipid-based nanoparticles for targeted drug delivery in neurological disorders. Furthermore, I am skilled in molecular biology techniques such as Western blotting, ELISA, analysis of biochemical stress markers and antioxidants, and protein purification methods.
I have published a total of 13 research articles and 1 review article in reputed journals, both as a first author and co-author. Additionally, I have contributed to 9 book chapters.
PhD Students
Rudraradhya U
This is Rudraradhya! I did my Master’s in Biochemistry at Davanagere University. During my master's, I did a project on the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory formation. I started my career as a Research Assistant in Genotoxicity at Liveon Biolabs Pvt. Ltd. Hence, I started the ‘Soil Health Care Lab’ under the NMSA project funded by 5 Lakhs from both Govt. of India and the state government.
I joined Bio-INvENT Lab as a PhD student in 2024. My research work is on “Prophylactic drug delivery to the donor corneal endothelium to enhance the success of corneal transplantation”. My areas of expertise include Mammalian cell culture, cell and molecular biology, laboratory animal handling and dosing, and Genotoxicity assays (CAT, MLA, MTT).
I’m currently learning nanoparticle preparation and drug delivery systems for the treatment of corneal disorders, during storage and after transplantation. I am also inclined towards Entrepreneurship.
When you don’t see me in the lab, you can find me in the campus gym
Namaste, I’m Varsha G, a PhD research scholar at Siddaganga Institute of Technology since March 2024 under the guidance of Dr. H S Lalithamba, Department of Chemistry, SIT, and under the co-guidance of Dr. Sudhir H Ranganath, Department of Chemical Engineering, SIT. I hold a Master's Degree in Chemistry from REVA University, Bengaluru. Currently, I am involved in a Project titled “Synthesis and development of injectable, intravitreal, and stimuli-responsive drug delivery system to treat eye diseases.”
The research involves the development of a thermo-and light-responsive drug delivery system for the eye disease Uveitis and a thermo-and enzyme-responsive drug delivery system for the eye disease Fungal Endophthalmitis.
In addition to my academic pursuits, I’ve industrial working experience of one year in an MNC “Bureau Veritas”, Bengaluru where I have hands-on training in UV Spectrophotometer, HPLC, and LCMS. Also, I have teaching experience from an Engineering college, HMSIT, Tumakuru.
Junior Research Fellow
Kavya S U
Hello, I'm Kavya, a Junior Research Fellow at the Bio-INvENT Lab since February 2024. I hold a Master's Degree in Microbiology from Tumkur University. Currently, I am immersed in a DBT DBT-funded project titled "Network Center for research on glioblastoma stem cell–targeted T-cell immunotherapy using non-genetically engineered mesenchymal stromal cells."
My primary research revolves around Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs), particularly in engineering their cell membrane with CD133-specific aptamers/peptides. This modification aims to induce CD133-specific binding, allowing us to explore their migration across endothelial cell layers and their affinity towards specific CD133+ Glioblastoma Stem Cells (GSCs).
In addition to my academic pursuits, I've achieved success in competitive exams. I cleared the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) in both 2023 and 2024. Furthermore, I qualified for the CSIR NET Assistant Professorship in Life Sciences in 2023.
Beyond my scientific endeavors, I'm an avid reader, particularly drawn to literature, especially novels. Additionally, I harbor a deep passion for music, with singing being a cherished form of expression for me.
Master's students
Hello!! I am Appurva. Presently, I'm engaged in pursuing an M.S. (Research) program in chemical engineering, starting in 2022, following my completion of a Bachelor of Engineering (B.E.) degree in Chemical Engineering in 2018 from Siddaganga Institute of Technology.
My ongoing research is centered on the development of a methodology aimed at extracting lithium from RO reject water utilizing cutting-edge Deep Eutectic Solvent technology as it poses a significant ecological hazard due to its elevated salinity upon reintegration into marine environments. The extraction of valuable metals such as Li, Co, and Ni from RO reject water, represents an underexplored domain necessitating investigation through eco-friendly avenues.
The objectives of my research are to examine various Deep Eutectic Solvents (DESs) blends for compatibility with RO reject water and lithium solubility, and then assess their effectiveness in lithium extraction. Adjust different process parameters to recover lithium from DES in a usable salt form using separation techniques.
I received the Karnataka State Council for Science and Technology (KSCST) Student Grant (Rs. 8000/-) in Jan 2018 and the Indian Institute of Chemical Engineers (IIChE) Project Grant (Rs. 5000/-) for significant projects., Presented a paper on "Mitocurcumin functionalized carbon dots for Theranostic applications" at REFLUX-2018, IIT, Guwahati, and showcased a poster at SYNERGY 2018 in Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai.
Research Intern
Hi, I am Chaitra. I have completed an M.Sc. In biotechnology having six years of experience in the teaching field, I trained students with a diverse range of abilities and successfully guided them to accomplish their goals.
I joined in August 2023 as an intern at Bio-INvENT Lab to pursue my career with long-term goals. As a member of the Corneal Dystrophy team, I have had an opportunity to enhance my knowledge regarding Corneal diseases and delivered a few presentations on the anatomy and physiology of the Cornea, Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy, oxidative stress related to FECD, and the disease which is associated to FECD Pseudophakic bullous keratopathy.
I received a certificate of participation from Nethrakalpa – 2024 organized by the Tumkur Ophthalmic Society in February 2024 at Shridevi Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Hospital Tumakuru.
Currently, I am preparing to write a research proposal for the Department of Science and Technology WISE women fellowship for PhD 2024
Undergraduate Students
Meet Team Cornea!!! We're a diverse squad of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology undergrads from SIT. We joined the Bio-INvENT lab as undergraduate research interns in 2021. Since then we have taken on the challenge of addressing hypothermia in corneal endothelium using fusogenic liposome coated nanoparticles. Additionally, we're evaluating the cytotoxicity of PLGA nanoparticles in corneal endothelium while optimizing the parameters for their production yield and exploring strategies for the long-term retention of fusogenic liposome-coated nanoparticles in the donor corneal endothelium. We are also investigating the role of ferroptosis and its downstream effects in the corneal endothelial cells.
More about us:
Priya S N: I, an undergrad B.E Biotechnology student who is always excited to be dynamic and looking forward to learning something new, led my path to the Bio-INvENT Research Lab as a new team member. I first started as an intern during the summer break after my 2nd year. I look forward to contributing to a groundbreaking project "Investigation of ferroptosis as the mechanism of hypothermia-induced cell death and barrier dysfunction in cold stored ex-vivo corneal endothelium" and collaborating with a team of esteemed members. Together, we aim to make significant strides in developing new therapeutic solutions.
Being a professional classical dancer, I also like traveling to different places and trying out the food there.
Vedashree C K: Hi there! I'm an undergraduate in Biotechnology Engineering. I joined Bio-INvENT Lab in 2022, for academic fulfillment I completed my internship here in the year 2023 and it had been a great time gaining knowledge along with hands-on experiences.
Currently, I am working on a project investigating ferroptosis as the mechanism of hypothermia-induced cell death and barrier dysfunction in cold-stored ex vivo corneal endothelium.
Bio-INvENT Lab has always been an open opportunity for young buds like us seeking exposure in the field of research and development. I am very grateful for the opportunity to be part of the lab and look forward to contributing to our shared success.
To tell you a little more about me, I am a bit silent but give occasional bursts of productive procrastination. Beyond my academic pursuits, my hobbies include swimming, playing chess, and going on nature walks and adventures. I am eager to contribute and create a meaningful impact. Reach out, and let's make a difference.
We, Deeksha Naik and Thejaswini PK, are undergraduate research interns at Bio-INvENT Lab.
Our research focuses on the development of a nanoparticle-based prophylactic drug delivery system designed to safeguard the corneal endothelium from hypothermia-induced microtubule disassembly during cold storage, it also aims to predict the viability of cold-stored donor corneas for transplantation using Artificial Intelligence. Through this project, we have gained knowledge in nanoparticle preparation and developed skills in research methodology, scientific writing, and problem-solving, enhancing our ability to integrate biomedical engineering with artificial intelligence for real-world applications.
We are Team Lithium. Our team is dedicated to the extraction of lithium from both solid and liquid sources. We joined Bio-INvENT Lab as undergraduate research interns in 2022. Since then, we have been working to create effective and sustainable ways to recover lithium. Our efforts have taken us from creating an adsorbent to recover lithium from liquid ores to figuring out how to effectively recover lithium from Li-ion batteries. We are also exploring sustainable recovery methods such as Deep Eutectic Solvents (DESs).
Shrihari M S: Hey! I am currently pursuing a bachelor's in Chemical Engineering. I started my journey as a freshman intern in August 2022 with a vision to learn and channel my scientific curiosity at the Bio-INvENT Lab, under the guidance of inspiring Dr. Sudhir.
My work focuses on a separation technique 'Application of Deep Eutectic Solvents (DESs) for the extraction and recovery of Lithium from low-concentration sources', potentially developing novel and sustainable techniques for future energy demands.
I was a recipient of the KITE Internship-2022 sponsored by the Ministry of Heavy Industries, GOI at IIT Madras, and also a Summer Internship at the Indian Institute of Science. Along with my scientific studies, my hobbies include hiking, volunteering, and reading non-fiction books.
Nidhi G Raichur: Hello! I am a Chemical Engineering undergrad student. Bio-INvENT Lab has provided a wonderful platform to build up my career in the Research domain. I've been awarded with the opportunity to study and work on green energy which I have always admired. I even indulge myself in cooking, reading novels, and listening to music.
Vishnu Iyer: Hi! I am Vishnu Iyer. I joined the Bio-INvENT lab as an undergraduate student, aspiring to explore sustainability in aspects of research by extracting Lithium from low-concentration sources like RO reject samples. I was intrigued by the possibility of efficiently extracting valuable metals for batteries and other applications in the booming Automobile and Electronics industries.
Meet Team PAW…..!! A squad that leads the Plasma Activated Water Nanoliposome Delivery. We are pioneering a drug-free approach to cancer treatment by utilizing cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) to create potent plasma-activated water (PAW). We focus on developing and optimizing nanoliposomes – microscopic carriers – to efficiently encapsulate and deliver plasma-activated water (PAW) directly to cancer cells. PAW, generated using cold atmospheric plasma technology, holds promise as a weapon against cancer due to its targeted action on these cells. This targeted approach aims to minimize side effects on healthy tissue, offering a potentially more effective and innovative weapon against cancer.
Manaswini N Kiran: Hey! My interest has always been to work in the field of nanotechnology and the treatment of cancer. I joined Bio-INvENT lab in the year 2022 and that has been the stepping stone in improving my knowledge. My interest also lies in theatre, painting, and sports.
Raghu: Hii I am Raghu. Currently studying B.E., Chemical Engineering (5th semester) at SIT Tumkur. I joined Bio-INvENT lab in 2024 working with the team PAW. I am very enthusiast to work in the Bio-INvENT lab by gaining new knowledge and new experiences under the guidance of Dr. Sudhir sir.
Aditi A. Gaonkar: Hello, my name is Aditi A. Gaonkar, and I am currently in my third year of pursuing a degree in Chemical Engineering at Siddaganga Institute of Technology. At present, I am working on an exciting mini project as part of Bio-INvENT lab. My project is based on Plasma activated water (PAW) which is used for the treatment of cancer, we are developing a targeted delivery system for carrying PAW using Hydrogel nanoparticle. I am grateful to have a platform which helping me develop my technical skills and provides me support and encouragement for everything.
Geetha: Hi. I could not pursue a career in the medical field, but this project provided me with a valuable opportunity to work in cancer research. Also, I am a trained kho-kho player and a classical dancer.
Keerthana: I am passionate about working in cancer research. I am driven by the desire to advance treatments, find cures, and bring hope to those affected. I also love listening to music.
Pavani: Hello. I have always been interested in working against cancer. It fills my heart with pure joy to see someone cured of cancer, standing strong, surrounded by the love of their family. Besides the research, I am also a dancer.
Greetings, we are part of Team Glioblastoma! Our journey began as interns and project students at the Bio-INvENT Lab. Currently, we're immersed in the cell culture of the U87-MG cell line and focusing on the development of spheroids in agarose microwells, meticulously studying their characterization.
More about us:
Saraswathi B L: Hi, I am a Chemical Engineering undergrad. Bio-INvENT Lab has provided a wonderful platform to start my research journey and also exposure to new technologies. I've been able to gain a lot of experience and knowledge in my field. I like to read fiction novels and listen to music.
Apoorva P Shenoy: Hello, I am pursuing a degree in Biotechnology. I have had a keen interest in biomedical research and am grateful for this opportunity in the Bio-INvENT Lab. Alongside research, I enjoy sketching, English literature, and music.
Varsha H M: Hey everyone I’m Varsha, 3rd year Biotech student at SIT. My keen intrest in biology led me to this field. I joined Bio-INvENT lab on August 2024. The idea of using science to solve real world problems and create healing opportunities excites me and the fact that Bio-INvENT is doing just that made me join the team. Other than my intrest in biology I enjoy listening to music on a cold day with a hot cup of coffee, observing nature to recharge myself, read novels when bored and sometimes drawing.
Priyanka S: I’m Priya, 3rd year Biotech student at SIT. I am excited to join the research project at Bio-INvENT lab focusing on nanoparticle based immunotherapy targeting the STING pathway for reinvigorating exhausted T cells. And I look forward in contributing to advancing this innovative approach in cancer immunotherapy.
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