Rohini Manickam
Washington,DC
Summary
Scientist and science communicator with strong training in molecular and cell biology. Skilled in technical evaluation, data analysis, and translating complex scientific concepts for diverse audiences. Experienced in supporting cross functional teams, producing clear written and visual content, and helping shape frameworks that connect research to real world context. Motivated by technologies that advance human health, particularly in Pharma, Biotech, and Medical Devices. Known for learning quickly, adapting to new tools and ideas, and contributing with curiosity and initiative in fast paced, mission driven environments.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Graduate Student Researcher
Department Of Biochemistry
08.2020 - 09.2025
• Led molecular and cell biology research on cytoskeletal regulation in macrophage migration, phagocytosis, and activation.
• Designed experiments, analyzed complex data sets, and prepared technical summaries for advisors and collaborators.
• Evaluated feasibility of experimental approaches and iterated on protocols to improve efficiency and outcomes.
• Presented research at national and international conferences and communicated findings through manuscripts, posters, and talks.
• Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams and guided junior students through complex scientific concepts and workflows.
• Built strong ability to assess evidence, identify limitations, and determine next steps based on data driven insight.
NIH Postbaccalaureate IRTA Fellow
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
09.2017 - 05.2019
• Conducted translational neuroscience research on small molecule HIV Tat antagonists for therapeutic development.
• Performed compound testing, viability and signaling assays, and contributed to early stage evaluation of therapeutic potential.
• Collaborated with investigators to refine experimental direction and communicate results clearly.
Education
Ph.D. - Molecular And Cell Biology
Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences
Bethesda, MD05-2025
Bachelor of Science - Biology
Wayne State University
Bethesda05-2017
Skills
Scientific and Technical Evaluation: Ability to break down complex scientific concepts and assess feasibility and potential applications, Strong data interpretation and evidence-based analysis
Molecular and Analytical Expertise: Molecular training including gene perturbation, immunoassays, cloning, microscopy, and quantitative imaging; Statistical analysis using GraphPad and R
Communication and Content Development: Skilled in translating technical information into clear writing, visual materials, and presentations; Experience with manuscripts, research summaries, and public-facing science communication
Collaboration and Project Support: Comfortable working across disciplines and coordinating with investigators and partners, Strong organizational habits and process-oriented mindset
Timeline
Graduate Student Researcher
Department Of Biochemistry
08.2020 - 09.2025
NIH Postbaccalaureate IRTA Fellow
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
09.2017 - 05.2019
Ph.D. - Molecular And Cell Biology
Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences
Bachelor of Science - Biology
Wayne State University
Awards & Honors
- People’s Choice Award & Second Place, Three Minute Thesis Competition (April 2025). Recognized for public speaking and science communication in a graduate research pitch competition
- Honorable Mention, Henry Jackson Foundation Fellowship (August 2023, 2024). Received honorable mention and a competitive research grant for two consecutive years in a fellowship program recognizing promising graduate student research.
- Graduate Student Esprit de Corps Award, USU School of Medicine (May 2024). Annual leadership award voted on by the student body and given to one graduate student who embodies service, collaboration, and community-building.
- Graduate Student Research Award, USU GEO/VPR (December 2022, 2023). Twice awarded competitive research grant for scientific contribution at the graduate level
- Graduate Student Leadership Award, USU (May 2023). Faculty-selected leadership honor awarded to one graduate student annually without application.
- First Place, Art of Science Image Competition (May 2023). Winning entry featured confocal macrophage microscopy blended with artistic rendering.