Rashmika Gunda

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

ABOUT RASHMIKA GUNDA

I am currently a Research Associate II in the Department of Neurology at UCLA, with over 4 years of academic experience. My work focuses on biomarker quantification and discovery within NIH-led studies such as DVCID, MARK-VCID, and DISCOVERY cohorts, specifically investigating the IL-18 biomarker network and its role in the pathogenesis of cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD).I specialize in developing and executing in-vitro cell-based assays using human endothelial cells (HUVECs and HBMECs) to study the biological effects of circulating biomarkers on endothelial function. I utilize multiplex platforms including Luminex xMAP, MSD, and ELISA to quantify biomarkers in clinical samples. My role involves handling large datasets, performing advanced statistical analysis, and presenting results to both internal teams and external collaborators.I hold a Master’s degree in Biological Sciences, with a thesis focused on lipid biochemistry, investigating how novel fullertube compounds impact lipid biosynthesis and biofilm formation in Mycobacterium smegmatis.Additionally, I have managed lab operations and inventory for a research team of 15+, ensuring efficiency and compliance with GLP and GDP standards. I am actively seeking industry roles where I can apply my background in molecular assays, endothelial biology, and biomarker discovery to contribute to impactful therapeutic innovation.Key SkillsBiomarker Quantification (Luminex xMAP multiplex assays, MSD (V Plex, U plex, R plex and S plex kits), ELISA)In-vitro Assay Development (angiogenesis, proliferation, cytotoxicity)Molecular Biology Techniques (RNA/DNA extraction, qPCR, Western Blot)Cell Culture (Mammalian cell lines- HUVECs, HBMECs, Bacterial cultures)Data Analysis (GraphPad Prism, Excel)NIH-Funded Clinical Cohort Studies (DVCID, MARKVCID, DISCOVERY)Lab Management & Compliance (GLP, GDP)Scientific Communication & Collaboration