Atul Preetham

About Atul Preetham

Born in Kerala and raised in Dubai, I’ve been fortunate to grow up in a mix of cultures that shaped how I see the world: curious, adaptable, and always open to learning. My journey in biotechnology took me from India to San Francisco, where I earned my Master’s in Biotechnology from the University of San Francisco and began shaping my path as a scientist.Today, I work at UC Berkeley as a Staff Research Associate II, leading CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing projects in human pluripotent stem cells. My research focuses on understanding telomere biology and chromosomal stability through the use of CRISPR-edited stem cell models and CRISPR Screens. Before Berkeley, I trained at UCSF, studying transcriptional regulation and worked in the biotech industry at companies like Vaxart and AB Studio, where I gained hands-on experience in various industry relevant skills that I believe has helped shape me to become a good researcher.I’m passionate about the intersection of biology and technology, especially how data-driven tools can help decode complex systems. I enjoy being both an experimentalist and a communicator, mentoring others and building a collaborative lab environment. I’m excited by the possibilities in precision medicine, functional genomics, and next-generation therapeutics, and I’m driven by the goal of translating discovery into real-world impact.Outside of work, you’ll often find me traveling, watching soccer, exploring cars, or behind a camera lens, capturing everyday moments. I’m always happy to connect with people who share a passion for science, innovation, or just good conversation.

Experience

1. Assistant Specialist

   UCSF Health

   Nov 2025 — Present · San Francisco, CA, US

Education

• University of San Francisco

  Professional Master of Science - PSM, Biotechnology

• Vellore Institute of Technology

  Bachelor of Technology - BTech, Biotechnology