RICHA GUPTA

Coordinated planning and execution of plant genome research initiatives to ensure alignment with project goals.

• Prepared samples and maintained laboratory equipment to support successful fieldwork operations.
• Compiled data and research summaries for presentations to effectively communicate findings to stakeholders.

• Successfully isolated and amplified SSP1 gene from in-planta samples; cloned directionally into pENTR/D-TOPO vector.
• Planned functional analysis of SSP1 entry clone for its recombination into suitable expression vector, facilitating further research.
• Conducted functional characterization of secretory protein to decipher S. sclerotiorum infection process.
• Developed strategy for blocking expression of key proteins to enhance management of sclerotinia rot.
• Induced and collected various stages of compound appressorium on in-vitro surfaces to identify pathogenicity factors from phytopathogen.
• Observed compound appressorium formation in-planta during time course study of S. sclerotiorum infection on N. benthamiana, isolating key secreted protein.