Yogesh K. Chaudhari
Glenwood,Australia
Summary
I am a PhD-qualified biotechnologist with extensive expertise in metabolic engineering and microbial systems. My work focuses on the design and optimisation of biological pathways across bacteria, yeast, fungi, and plants to develop efficient, high-performing strains for industrial and research applications. I have experience in microbial fermentation, ranging from laboratory-scale experiments to process scale-up. My technical skill set includes advanced molecular biology techniques such as DNA cloning, CRISPR-based genome editing, plasmid design, and strain engineering, along with hands-on experience in biofoundry workflows and Oxford Nanopore sequencing for high-throughput genomic analysis and validation. Experience in passaging of human fibroblast cell cultures. I combine these capabilities with rigorous experimental design and data-driven decision-making. I am passionate about applying synthetic biology and biotechnology to solve real-world challenges and drive innovation in sustainable bioprocessing. I also have experience in GC, LC/MS, LDTD.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
Work History
Metabolic Engineer
HydGene Renewables
09.2023 - 04.2026
- Lead metabolic engineering strategies to enhance microbial hydrogen production
- Oversaw daily laboratory operations in a PC2-certified environment, ensuring compliance with WHS and biosafety regulations
- Conducted and reviewed risk assessments for fermentation and molecular biology experiments
- Developed, implemented, and maintained standard operating procedures (SOPs) for safe laboratory practices
- Managed chemical storage, handling, labelling, and disposal in accordance with SafeWork NSW and GHS guidelines
- Maintained chemical registers and accessed Safety Data Sheets (SDS) using Chemwatch
- Prepared reagents, media, and laboratory materials for experimental workflows
- Maintained and calibrated laboratory equipment, ensuring operational readiness and reliability
- Identified hazards proactively and implemented corrective actions to maintain a safe working environment
- Trained and supervised junior staff and research assistants in laboratory techniques and safety protocols
- Maintained accurate laboratory documentation, including safety, compliance, and experimental records
Synthetic Biology Scientist
Nourish Ingredients
09.2022 - 09.2023
- Engineered yeast strains for enhanced lipid accumulation for alternative proteins.
- Worked in a high-throughput biofoundry environment with strong emphasis on laboratory safety, organisation, and compliance
- Handled chemicals and biological materials safely, following WHS, GHS, and institutional guidelines
- Prepared solutions, reagents, and consumables for automated and manual experimental workflows
- Supported laboratory operations involving advanced equipment (e.g., liquid handling systems, BioLector)
- Maintained detailed experimental records and ensured accurate data logging
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to plan and execute experiments efficiently
- Ensured proper storage, labelling, and disposal of chemicals and biological waste
- Contributed to maintaining a clean, organised, and audit-ready laboratory environment
PhD Research Scholar
Western Sydney University
01.2018 - 01.2022
- Engineered C4 plants to improve photosynthetic efficiency and water use.
- Applied advanced gene editing, plant physiology, and biochemical approaches.
- Conducted robotic phenotyping and physiological analysis of transgenic plants.
- Performed RNA extraction, qRT-PCR, Western blotting, and protein analysis.
- Authored peer-reviewed publications; contributed to international conferences.
Senior Experimental Officer
University of Exeter
01.2012 - 01.2018
- Managed end-to-end laboratory operations in a PC2 environment, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations
- Maintained laboratory inventory, including stock control, ordering, and supplier coordination
- Prepared risk assessments and ensured adherence to laboratory safety protocols and SOPs
- Coordinated procurement of laboratory consumables and major equipment, liaising with finance and purchasing teams
- Monitored and managed laboratory budgets, ensuring cost-effective resource utilisation
- Maintained laboratory equipment, scheduling servicing, calibration, and repairs
- Supported academic staff and researchers with laboratory setup and operational needs
- Participated in departmental safety meetings and worked closely with central WHS teams
- Maintained accurate documentation for compliance, safety audits, and operational processes
Research Technician
University of Aberdeen
01.2009 - 01.2012
- Constructed Candida albicans ORFeome library using Gateway cloning.
- Performed PCR, gel electrophoresis, plasmid extractions, and transformations.
- Supported projects in yeast and fungal molecular biology.
Education
PhD - Biotechnology
Western Sydney University
Sydney, Australia01.2022
MSc - Biotechnology
University of Abertay Dundee
Dundee, UK01.2009
Bachelor of Pharmacy (B. Pharm) - undefined
University of Pune
India01.2007
Skills
- Synthetic biology, metabolic engineering, strain development, Microbiology
- CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing, Golden Gate, Gibson Assembly, Gateway cloning
- High-throughput DNA library construction, Biofoundry automation, robotics
- Microbial (yeast, fungal, bacterial) and plant genetic engineering
- Fermentation optimisation, bioinformatics (NGS, RNAseq)
- Data analysis (R, statistical modelling), Benchling workflow management
- Manuscript and grant writing, SOP development, project management
Languages
English
Hindi
Marathi
Timeline
Metabolic Engineer
HydGene Renewables
09.2023 - 04.2026
Synthetic Biology Scientist
Nourish Ingredients
09.2022 - 09.2023
PhD Research Scholar
Western Sydney University
01.2018 - 01.2022
Senior Experimental Officer
University of Exeter
01.2012 - 01.2018
Research Technician
University of Aberdeen
01.2009 - 01.2012
MSc - Biotechnology
University of Abertay Dundee
Bachelor of Pharmacy (B. Pharm) - undefined
University of Pune
PhD - Biotechnology
Western Sydney University
Research Grants and Awards
Post Graduate Internship Award, Australian Plant Phenomics Facility (ANU) – $6,165 research + $1,500 travel/accommodation (2020–2021), ARC Centre of Excellence in Translational Photosynthesis PhD Scholarship – $30,000/year stipend (2018–2021), PhD Tuition Fee Waiver and OSHC, Western Sydney University (2018–2021), “Above and Beyond” Award (£750), University of Exeter, UK (2017), MSc Dissertation Grant (£1,000), University of Abertay Dundee, UK (2008)