🧬 About Me

I am an inquisitive and highly motivated individual with a deep passion for research in the molecular life sciences. Through rigorous training in molecular biology techniques, I have developed strong proficiency in advanced experimental research. My objective is to further explore the field of molecular biology and genetics to uncover the regulatory mechanisms behind cellular development, disease biology, and gene-environment interactions.

🔬 Research / Work Experience

Research Associate
Functional Genomics and Proteomics Laboratory, University of Chittagong
June 2020 – Present
— Engaged in research projects related to cancer, cardiovascular, viral, and infectious diseases
— Investigated genetic variations and immune responses
— Contributed to grant writing, experimental design, SOP optimization, data analysis, and manuscript preparation
— Gained expertise in advanced techniques including DNA sequencing and qRT-PCR
— Mentored undergraduate and graduate students as a lab monitor

Research Assistant
Functional Genomics and Proteomics Laboratory, University of Chittagong
May 2018 – May 2020
— Investigated SNPs and gene expression patterns related to arsenic-induced CVD and SLE
— Gained practical experience in PCR, PCR-RFLP, RT-PCR, and electrophoresis
— Performed genomic data analysis, including SNP and gene expression profiling

Graduate Research Intern
Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Chittagong
January – April 2018
— Conducted molecular detection and phylotyping of uropathogenic E. coli
— Executed lab tasks including bacterial isolation, antibiotic susceptibility testing, DNA extraction, and multiplex PCR
— Analyzed data and assisted with manuscript development

Molecular Biologist (Volunteer)
COVID-19 Testing Labs, University of Chittagong & Chattogram Medical College
2020 – 2022
— Led a 6-member team for SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR testing following biosafety protocols
— Trained medical technologists and created SOPs for COVID-19 testing
— Supported national public health efforts during the pandemic

🎓 Education

M.S. in Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology
University of Chittagong, Bangladesh
GPA: 3.48 / 4.00 — December 2017

B.Sc. (Hons.) in Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology
University of Chittagong, Bangladesh
CGPA: 3.33 / 4.00 — December 2016

📚 Publications

2025
Khaleda, L., et al. Detrimental effects of chronic arsenic exposure through daily diet on hepatic and renal health: An animal model study. Toxicology Reports, 14, p.101993.

2021
Al-Forkan, M., et al. Association of arsenic-induced cardiovascular disease susceptibility with genetic polymorphisms. Scientific Reports, 11(1), pp.1–16.

2019
Khaleda, L., et al. Effect of arsenic exposure on human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) gene expression: Risk of cardiovascular diseases. BMRC Bulletin, 45(1), pp.3–10.
Khaleda, L., et al. Genotyping of virulence factors of uropathogenic Escherichia coli from Chittagong. CUJBS, 9(1&2), pp.39–48.
Khaleda, L., et al. PCR-based detection and molecular typing of uropathogenic Escherichia coli. CUJBS, 9(1&2), pp.29–38.

🗣️ Conference Presentations

Sep 2021
Datta A., et al. The Role of Pattern Recognition Receptors (PRRs) in Developing Severe COVID-19.
Presented at: Chittagong Medical College Conference on COVID-19 & Metabolic Disease Management.

Oct 2019
Datta A., et al. IRF5 and TNFAIP3 Gene Polymorphism with TLR7/MyD88 Expression in SLE Pathogenesis.
12th Bangladesh Rheumatology Society Conference, Chittagong.

🧰 Trainings & Workshops

Jul 2018
Overview & Safe Use of Laboratory Ventilation Equipment – Esco Lifesciences Bangladesh

Oct 2017
Training on Basic Biotechnology – National Institute of Biotechnology, Dhaka

Sep 2017
Molecular Tools for Infectious Disease Diagnosis – CVASU & HEQEP

Oct 2016
Web Design ITES Foundation Skills – LICT Project, BCC, ICT Division, Bangladesh

Feb 2016
Computational Tools for Cancer Research – BCSIR Laboratories, Chittagong

🧭 Language Proficiency

— Bengali: Native Speaker
— English: Advanced Proficiency (IELTS Band Score 8.0)