Mojtaba Bagherian

Lab Profile: https://listerlab.org/ and https://plantenergy.edu.au

• Project: Expansion of synthetic biology tools to customize plant gene expression on demand
• Duties:
• Golden Gate DNA assembly (cloning) of novel synthetic regulators of plant gene expression to expand the toolkit of genetic circuits developed within the Lister lab with tools developed by the Bond lab
• Testing of novel genetic circuits in isolated plant cells by transfection and Dual Luciferase Assays
• Data analysis, including Illumina sequencing of all large plasmids encoding genetic circuits generated, of the expression differences obtained from the Dual Luciferase Assays, and the structure of the novel fusion proteins generated in this project (by AlphaFold prediction and manual assembly of the complex)
• Achievements:
• Participated actively in regular meetings with fellow researchers to discuss project updates, challenges faced, and lessons learned during ongoing activities.
• Organized research materials, maintaining a well-ordered workspace conducive to productivity.
• Maintained open lines of communication with project leads and team members for effective collaboration on common goals.
• Conducted literature reviews to support hypothesis development and identify gaps in existing knowledge.
• Monitored project timelines, ensuring timely completion of tasks while maintaining high-quality output.
• Managed laboratory equipment and resources, ensuring proper maintenance and optimal functionality.
• Successfully designed and assembled over +50 unique DNA constructs using Golden Gate cloning
• Achieved 90%+ success rate in bacterial transformations through optimized protocols
• Developed and validated 15+ novel genetic circuits for plant gene expression control
• Improved On/Off state difference of target gene expression in plants using new circuits
• Established cross-lab collaboration resulting in 2 new research initiatives
  Managed database of 100+ DNA constructs with associated sequencing data

Managed and organized tasks for interns using Trello within an Agile business development environment, ensuring efficient project progression and adherence to timelines.

Collaborated closely with mentors to design and develop tailored tasks and projects for mentees, enhancing their market readiness and professional growth.

Delegated tasks to mentees with a strategic approach, aligning project objectives with individual learning goals and capabilities.

Conducted regular follow-ups with mentors and mentees to monitor project developments, utilizing key performance metrics to assess progress and identify areas for improvement.

Prepared comprehensive reports for the CEO, detailing project statuses, mentee performance, and key outcomes, contributing to informed decision-making processes.

Engaged in initial consultations with mentees to assess their skills and interests, guiding them towards learning tracks that best suited their professional aspirations, and the markets need.

Analysing performance data of mentees and mentors to derive insights on learning outcomes and project efficacy, facilitating continuous improvement in training methodologies.

Actively participated in core team meetings, offering valuable insights and feedback to drive the company's strategic direction and enhance operational efficiency.

Fostered a collaborative relationship with the digital marketing team, ensuring alignment on project goals and leveraging cross-functional expertise to optimize project outcomes.

• Project: Developing a new fluorescent biosensor to detect circulating tumor cells, using polyurethane and graphene oxide
• Duties:

Optimizing graphene Oxide nanoparticle synthesis for the lab

Finding an appropriate membrane for the biosensor

Designing the biosensor: coating with nanoparticles and binding scaffold proteins and receptors to it

• Achievements:

Developed a novel fluorescent biosensor using polyurethane and graphene oxide to detect circulating tumor cells, expanding the potential for early cancer diagnosis

Training new students on lab safety guidelines and protocols

Developed log books and user manuals for laboratory equipment

Providing printed information on materials properties in the lab

Weekly lab cleaning and maintenance activities