Vipin Thekkilakadan Varghese

I am a Postgraduate from Queens University, Belfast who is passionate about the discipline of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology. My history includes a Bachelor’s degree in  Biotechnology. I am knowledgeable in molecular biology techniques, bioprocess applications, and biochemistry basics. I completed my work placement at Agri Foods and Biosciences Institute, Stormont, Northern Ireland. I have hands-on experience on training on advanced molecular biology and biotechnology.

I am a recognised expert in problem-solving and a communicative collaborator. My previous responsibilities have strengthened my capabilities in decision-making and team-building, including keen attention to detail and accuracy. 

I did my work placement as part of my Master's Program at AFBI Stormont, the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute in Stormont, Northern Ireland. This institute conducts research in various fields, including agriculture, food safety, and biosciences, and it offered me the opportunity to work in areas related to bacteriology and bovine tuberculosis research within the Veterinary Sciences Division (VSD). My practical experience in a Contaminant Level 3 and Level 2 laboratory gave me the specialised knowledge and abilities necessary for microbiology, public health, epidemiology, and laboratory management. It also proved to be extremely beneficial for my research on infectious diseases. Developed my skills using a variety of tools while I was employed at AFBI, including the BACTEC MGIT, automated stainer, safety cabinets, centrifuges, incubators, homogenizers, Illumina sequencer, and a thermocycler.  I have conducted and assisted in Bovigam Elisa for detecting Bovine Tuberculosis in Cattle Blood Samples and in Spoligotyping (Spacer Oligonucleotide Typing) and VNTR analysis for genotyping Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis) strains, especially in the context of tuberculosis (TB) epidemiology and research. 

During my training in advanced molecular techniques and microbiology, at Unibyosis, Kerala, India, I gained invaluable experience in diverse laboratory methodologies, including PCR, DNA sequencing, and microbial culturing. It has equipped me with skills that are highly relevant to the role of a Laboratory Analyst. experience in ISO standards testing laboratories, particularly with ISO 17025:2017 and ISO 9001:2015 certification, has honed my problem-solving skills in a laboratory setting. I am skilled in experimental design, data interpretation, and troubleshooting, allowing me to effectively analyze and communicate laboratory results. Furthermore, I am proficient in utilizing laboratory instrumentation and software, ensuring efficient workflow and accurate data acquisition.

I completed my Master's in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology from Queens University of Belfast.