Drithi Sreenivas
Upper Hutt,New Zealand
Summary
Accomplished professional with expertise in structural genomics and human genetics, demonstrating proficiency in molecular genetics, chromosomal analysis and microarray analysis. Adept at utilising molecular biology techniques, including PCR and Next Generation Sequencing, to drive experimental design and data analysis. Recognized for excellent technical writing skills and effective communication, fostering professional networking and collaboration. Committed to maintaining confidentiality while ensuring quality assurance and process improvement. Ready to use and develop NGS, critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills in a senior scientist role in the Genomics team within New Zealand's National Animal Health Laboratory.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
8
8
years of post-secondary education
1
1
Certification
Work history
Diagnostic Genetic Scientist
Te Whatu Ora, Capital and Coast
Wellington, New Zealand
07.2018 - 07.2025
- Responsible for molecular genotyping and reporting of clinical specialist referrals for various genetic disorders, including but not limited to: Cystic Fibrosis, Fragile X syndrome, Prader-Willi / Angelman syndrome, Spinal muscular Atrophy, C9orf72, Myotonic dystrophy type 1 and other neurological disorders, FISH analysis.
- Germline and somatic NGS variant curation using several software platforms: Alamut Visual, Basespace (Illumina), HGMD pro., ClinVar, Pubmed, dbSNPs, Uniprot, Protein databases, DRAGEN and other relevant variant interpreting platforms.
- Practical experience with PCR-based techniques, ABI direct sequencing, Illumina next-seq 1000, automated and manual DNA extraction, DNA QC methods, agarose gel electrophoresis, bi-directional PCR, triplet-repeat primed PCR, MLPA and Methylation-MLPA.
- Involved in prenatal testing, constitutional microarray analysis.
- Working with clinical geneticists, genetic counselors and laboratory technicians to deliver consistent and accurate results for patient diagnosis, prognosis and treatment-related planning.
- Participate in External Quality assessment: EMQN, GENQA, and RCPA-Australia.
- Streamlined laboratory procedures for improved efficiency.
- Presentation of unique and interesting case studies in laboratory meetings.
- Participate in continuous professional development with NZIMLS and Medical Science Council, NZ. Attend and participate in Special Interest Group conferences, webinars, and collaborate with other professional colleagues.
- Participate in quality control, SOPs review in accordance with international guidelines for genetic testing.
- Good understanding of laboratory biocontainment protocols and guidelines: HSNO, AS/NZS 2243.3, ISO:17025.
- Dedicated role to allied work in public health.
Medical Laboratory Technician
Te Whatu Ora
Wellington, New Zealand
03.2011 - 06.2018
- Involved in assisting with routine diagnostic genetic tests in Prenatal, Postnatal and Malignancy Cytogenetics, Microarrays and Molecular genetics.
- Maintained patient, specimen and tracking data using laboratory computer systems and sterilized lab area, tools and equipment.
- Performed quality control procedures to validate test results according to established standards.
- Followed standard precautions using personal protective equipment as required.
- Identified and corrected problems that could adversely affect test performance or reporting of test results.
- Calibrated and performed routine maintenance to keep laboratory equipment in satisfactory condition.
- Evaluated and processed biological specimens to support accurate and appropriate testing procedures.
- Ordered laboratory supplies to maintain inventory stock.
- Coordinated prioritization, receipt and delivery of laboratory specimens.
- Performed DNA extraction from different biological specimens using automated QiaSymphony by Qiagen.
- Maintained and tested sterility of medical equipment.
- Followed key principles of asepsis to protect medical equipment from contamination during blood work.
- Maintained GLP and GMP standards.
- Trained and supervised junior laboratory technicians in proper specimen collection and processing.
- Involved in processing of cord blood samples for a collaborative project with Otago University in study of 'Probiotics in Pregnancy'.
- Increased diagnostic accuracy with meticulous attention to detail whilst analysing test results.
- Handled biohazardous materials safely, reducing risk of contamination or infection.
Education
GradDipMLSc - Human Genetics
Massey University
02.2015 - 06.2018
B.Sc. - Cell and Molecular Bioscience
Victoria University of Wellington
Wellington, New Zealand 07.2007 - 11.2010
High School - Chemistry, Biology, Psychology, Statistics, Advanced English, Environmental Science,
The School - Krishnamurthy Foundation of India
Chennai, India 06.2004 - 03.2006
Skills
- Interpersonal skills
- Attention to detail
- Excellent technical writing skills
- Professional networking
- Statistical analysis
- Critical analysis
- Teaching and mentoring
- Next Generation Sequencing
- Experimental design
- Molecular biology techniques
- PCR
- Results presentation
- Quality Assurance
- Process Improvement
- Written and verbal communication
- Positive attitude
Certification
06/01/22, Present, Medical Science Council NZ-Annual Practicing certificate
Languages
Hindi
Fluent
Tamil
Advanced
Telugu
Advanced
Spanish
Beginner
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Diagnostic Genetic Scientist
Te Whatu Ora, Capital and Coast
07.2018 - 07.2025
GradDipMLSc - Human Genetics
Massey University
02.2015 - 06.2018
Medical Laboratory Technician
Te Whatu Ora
03.2011 - 06.2018
B.Sc. - Cell and Molecular Bioscience
Victoria University of Wellington
07.2007 - 11.2010
High School - Chemistry, Biology, Psychology, Statistics, Advanced English, Environmental Science,
The School - Krishnamurthy Foundation of India
06.2004 - 03.2006
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