I’m a biochemistry graduate with a passion for oncobiology, immunology and genetics, eager to keep exploring, learning, and growing. I have recently joined the Master Programme in Biomedicine at the University of Minho. During my undergraduate journey, I had the chance to work on projects that challenged me to think critically, collaborate closely with others, and transform ideas into concrete results. I focused my research along the years on Colorectal and Pancreatic Cancer, trying to understand the effects of a novel metallic drug. I’m motivated by curiosity and a love for problem-solving, and I’m always excited to take on new challenges — whether it’s diving deeper into research, exploring innovative technologies, or connecting ideas across disciplines. I’m now looking forward to applying what I’ve learned, collaborating with new teams, and contributing to meaningful projects!

I am Dr. Sunita Sharma, currently working as a Postdoctoral Research Associate at the University of Georgia, Athens, USA. My scientific journey began with a Ph.D. in Biotechnology from Jawaharlal Nehru University, India, where I specialized in microbiology and photobiology. My research passion lies in cilia biology and molecular genetics, with a strong focus on intraflagellar transport (IFT) and phototropin-mediated signaling pathways. I investigate how cilia form and function in model organisms like Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, using a combination of CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing, high-throughput sequencing, qRT-PCR, and advanced imaging techniques. My goal is to unravel the molecular mechanisms that govern sensory perception, motility, and light signaling in ciliated cells. I’m actively involved in interdisciplinary projects combining optogenetics, cilia biology, structural biology, and signal transduction. My current work includes creating photoreceptor knockouts to study their role in gene regulation, protein localization, and ciliary dynamics under various environmental stimuli. I am highly enthusiastic about collaborative science, and I aspire to contribute meaningfully to the global scientific community—both through impactful research and active participation in organizing academic events. I am particularly interested in opportunities to serve on scientific committees such as FEBS, where I can help foster innovation, diversity, and knowledge-sharing in life sciences.