Pratibha Jakhu
Hoshiarpur
Summary
Detail-oriented molecular biologist with over 9 years of experience in biotechnology research, focusing on agricultural applications and quality control. Expertise in microbiological testing and strict adherence to GMP and HACCP regulations. Proficient in molecular biology techniques, genomics, and biomedical science, ready to contribute to advancements in the biotechnology and food industries.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Quality Controller
London Food Corporation
Croydon, London, UK
05.2024 - 11.2024
- Executed microbiological and quality testing of food products to ensure safety and compliance standards.
- Ensured compliance with GMP, HACCP, and food safety standards.
- Performed product traceability, quality checks, and deviation reporting.
- Updated and maintained SOPs, batch records, and quality documentation for regulatory adherence.
- Participated in internal audits and regulatory inspections.
- Collaborated with production teams to uphold product quality and consistency in manufacturing processes.
Genome Engineering Intern – CRISPR Gene Editors 2.0
University of Westminster
10.2022 - 07.2023
- Designed guide RNAs (gRNAs) for targeted CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing to enhance precision in genetic modifications.
- Contributed to optimisation of genome-editing workflows, improving efficiency in experimental procedures.
- Executed plasmid cloning and vector construction to support successful gene editing experiments.
- Conducted restriction digestion and sequencing validation.
- Maintained construct records using Benchling.
- Followed GLP and SOP-based laboratory documentation procedures.
Research Fellow – Department of Horticulture
Punjab Agricultural University
05.2021 - 09.2022
- Assisted in developing genomic markers linked to resistance traits for improved breeding strategies.
- Analysed linkage relationships between markers and resistance traits.
- Performed SSR and SNP marker analysis.
- Extracted genomic DNA to support genetic analysis of mapping populations.
- Conducted PCR amplification and gel electrophoresis.
- Coordinated phenotyping and data collection.
Senior Research Fellow – School of Agricultural Biotechnology
Punjab Agricultural University
01.2019 - 01.2021
- Conducted marker-trait association analysis to enhance understanding of trait relationships.
- Executed SSR marker screening to identify yield and quality traits for improved breeding outcomes.
- Managed breeding populations and phenotypic datasets to support ongoing research initiatives.
- Provided support for statistical analysis and contributed to technical reporting processes.
- Kept accurate laboratory records and organised experimental documentation to ensure compliance.
Senior Research Fellow – Department of Vegetable Sciences
Punjab Agricultural University
01.2018 - 01.2019
- Conducted DNA extraction and PCR-based marker screening to identify genetic variations.
- Identified resistance-linked molecular markers.
- Executed validation experiments to confirm reliability of molecular marker results.
- Developed segregating populations via controlled crossing to advance genetic research.
- Supported research documentation and project reporting.
Postdoctoral Researcher – School of Agricultural Biotechnology
Punjab Agricultural University
01.2016 - 01.2018
- Conducted QTL mapping and genotype–phenotype correlation studies.
- Analysed NGS data to identify candidate resistance genes for further research.
- Assisted in manuscript preparation and technical reporting to ensure clear communication of research findings.
Education
MSc - Biomedical Science (Haematology)
University of Westminster
London, UK01-2023
PhD - Biotechnology (Plant Biotechnology)
Punjab Agricultural University
Ludhiana, India01-2015
MSc - Biotechnology
Panjab University
Chandigarh, India01-2009
BSc - Biotechnology
Guru Nanak Dev University
Amritsar, India01-2007
Skills
- Quality Control & Quality Assurance
- GMP
- HACCP
- SOP Compliance
- Regulatory Compliance
- Quality Audits
- Audit Support
- Documentation
- Documentation control
- Laboratory Operations
- Laboratory methods
- Microbiological Testing
- PCR
- QRT-PCR
- DNA/RNA Isolation
- Cloning
- Sequencing
- Gel Electrophoresis
- CRISPR/Cas9 Genome Engineering
- Genomics
- Molecular Biology
- Biotechnology
- Molecular Markers
- NGS Data Analysis
- QTL Mapping
- Marker-Assisted Selection
- Flow Cytometry
- Risk Assessment
- Troubleshooting
- Cross-functional Team Collaboration
- Data Analysis
- Team management
- Quality management
- Internal audits
- HACCP
- BLAST
- Clustal Omega/X
- Ensembl
- UCSC Genome Browser
- Benchling
Research Interests
- Functional Genomics
- Molecular Breeding
- CRISPR-Based Genome Editing
- Food Biotechnology & Quality Systems
- Plant Stress Biology
- Translational Biotechnology
Publications
- Cloning, expression analysis and in silico characterization of HSP101: a potential player conferring heat stress tolerance in Aegilops speltoides., Jakhu P. et al., 2021, Physiology and Molecular Biology of Plants
- Transgenic Plants for Abiotic Stress Tolerance, Jakhu P., 2026, Innovative Pathways in Agriculture and Allied Sciences, 235–253
Accomplishments
ICAR–NET Qualified (2015)
Rajiv Gandhi National Fellowship (UGC), 2010 – 2015
References
Available upon request.
Timeline
Quality Controller
London Food Corporation
05.2024 - 11.2024
Genome Engineering Intern – CRISPR Gene Editors 2.0
University of Westminster
10.2022 - 07.2023
Research Fellow – Department of Horticulture
Punjab Agricultural University
05.2021 - 09.2022
Senior Research Fellow – School of Agricultural Biotechnology
Punjab Agricultural University
01.2019 - 01.2021
Senior Research Fellow – Department of Vegetable Sciences
Punjab Agricultural University
01.2018 - 01.2019
Postdoctoral Researcher – School of Agricultural Biotechnology
Punjab Agricultural University
01.2016 - 01.2018
MSc - Biomedical Science (Haematology)
University of Westminster
PhD - Biotechnology (Plant Biotechnology)
Punjab Agricultural University
MSc - Biotechnology
Panjab University
BSc - Biotechnology
Guru Nanak Dev University