ARSALAN QURESH
Brookings,SD
Summary
Biochemistry undergraduate at South Dakota State University, graduating May 2027, with extensive laboratory and computational research experience in seed genetics and protein structure analysis. Skilled in ELISA, PCR, gel electrophoresis, and bioinformatics, with a strong focus on data management. Awarded a $7,000 Okken/Guss Research Fellowship for research on coevolving residues using AlphaFold2, enhancing understanding of protein stability. Recognized for precision in documentation and rapid adaptation to new protocols in collaborative research settings.
Overview
1
1
year of professional experience
Work History
ASSISTANT II - FIELD & LAB
South Dakota State University
Brookings, USA
02.2025 - Current
- Extracted proteins, enzymes (isozymes), and DNA from seeds and grain to check insect and herbicide traits.
- Ran herbicide tests on samples, used controls, and recorded clear results.
- Performed ELISA plate tests to detect target proteins and kept steps consistent.
- Used gel electrophoresis to separate DNA/proteins and checked bands against a ladder.
- Set up PCR to copy target DNA and confirmed products on gels.
- Labeled and tracked samples, kept careful notes, followed safety rules, and maintained equipment.
- Supporting plant pathology research in both laboratory and greenhouse environments.
- Preparing and autoclaving culture media (e.g., PDA, LB) for microbial growth and fungal screening.
- Performing sterile techniques for inoculation, plating, and culturing of fungal and bacterial isolates.
- Planting, maintaining, and monitoring experimental crops in the greenhouse for controlled studies.
- Assisting with pathogen inoculation and phenotyping to assess plant disease resistance.
- Recording and organizing experimental data; ensuring accuracy and consistency in documentation.
- Maintaining lab safety standards and biohazard disposal protocols.
GENETIC TECHNICIAN INTERNSHIP
SoDak Labs
Brookings, USA
08.2025 - 10.2025
- Extracted proteins, isozymes, and DNA from seeds and grain to assess insect and herbicide traits.
- Performed ELISA plate assays to detect target proteins with consistent procedures and documentation.
- Executed agarose and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis for DNA/protein separation and band pattern interpretation.
- Set up PCR reactions for target DNA amplification, confirming products through gel analysis.
- Accurately labeled and tracked samples while maintaining organized records.
- Followed strict laboratory safety protocols during all experiments.
- Assisted in routine maintenance and cleanliness of laboratory equipment and workspaces.
SUMMER RESEARCH FELLOWSHIP - COEVOLVING RESIDUES & AF2
South Dakota State University
Brookings, USA
05.2025 - 08.2025
- Secured $7,000 fellowship through Okken/Guss Research Fellowship for protein folding research.
- Led research under Dr. Suvobrata Chakravarty, enhancing predictive accuracy.
- Analyzed 20,000 genes with AlphaFold2, identifying key residue pairs in five protein families.
- Integrated computational and experimental methods to evaluate protein stability differences.
- Investigated thermodynamic roles to contribute insights on evolutionary constraints.
- Conducted in-depth analyses, improving protein structure predictions.
- Fostered strong teamwork and communication skills to enhance research environment.
CASHEIR STUDENT WORKER
Sodexo
Brookings, USA
08.2024 - 12.2024
- Managed cash transactions to ensure accuracy and efficiency in fast-paced environment.
- Assisted customers with inquiries to enhance overall experience and satisfaction.
- Collaborated with team to streamline checkout processes, increasing service speed.
SUMMER CAMP COUNSELOR
Dakota Dreams
Brookings, USA
07.2024 - 08.2024
- Fostered a supportive environment for campers, enhancing their social skills and boosting overall camp engagement.
- Implemented daily activities that improved campers' teamwork abilities, resulting in noticeable gains in group collaboration.
- Coordinated with fellow counselors to design inclusive programs, ensuring all campers felt valued and included.
Education
BACHELOR'S - BIOCHEMISTRY
South Dakota State University
Brookings, South Dakota05.2027
Skills
- Laboratory techniques
- Inoculation and aseptic techniques
- Bioinformatics
- Microscopy and PCR
- Media preparation
- Laboratory safety and compliance
- Greenhouse and field work
- Planting and harvesting
- Biochemistry
- Data collection and analysis
- Technical writing
- Team collaboration
- Time management
- Equipment maintenance
- Research methodology
- Microbiology Understanding
- Gel electrophoresis
- ELISA procedures
- Organic chemistry proficiency
Introduction
Biochemistry undergraduate at South Dakota State University with a robust background in analytical techniques and molecular biology. Demonstrates strong skills in field sampling, computational bioinformatics, and data management, contributing to innovative research initiatives. Committed to advancing scientific understanding through rigorous experimentation and collaboration within multidisciplinary teams.
Accomplishments
Okken/Guss Research Fellowship – South Dakota State University
– Competitive $7,000 summer research fellowship in protein structure/AlphaFold2
– Competitive $7,000 summer research fellowship in protein structure/AlphaFold2
Timeline
GENETIC TECHNICIAN INTERNSHIP
SoDak Labs
08.2025 - 10.2025
SUMMER RESEARCH FELLOWSHIP - COEVOLVING RESIDUES & AF2
South Dakota State University
05.2025 - 08.2025
ASSISTANT II - FIELD & LAB
South Dakota State University
02.2025 - Current
CASHEIR STUDENT WORKER
Sodexo
08.2024 - 12.2024
SUMMER CAMP COUNSELOR
Dakota Dreams
07.2024 - 08.2024
BACHELOR'S - BIOCHEMISTRY
South Dakota State University