Syam Kumar

About Syam Kumar

I am a research professional with a strong foundation in cancer biology and immuno-oncology, with over four years of hands-on experience in tumor microenvironment modeling, ex vivo drug testing, and functional assay development. At Farcast Biosciences, I’ve led translational research projects focused on solid tumors, including head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and breast cancer, working at the intersection of immune profiling and therapeutic efficacy.My work centers on developing innovative in-vitro assays that preserve the tumor microenvironment to assess patient-specific immune responses and drug sensitivities. I have expertise in platforms like flow cytometry, Nanostring, cytokine assays, and STR profiling, combined with molecular biology skills in DNA/RNA extraction from low-yield clinical tissues.I have also contributed to assay standardization, QA practices, and led cross-functional R&D teams, ensuring data integrity and scientific rigor. My approach integrates biological insight with technical precision to support personalized cancer therapies and immune modulation strategies.

Experience

1. Senior Research Associate

   Farcast Biodynamics

   Dec 2021 — Present · Bengaluru, IN

   As a Senior Research Associate at Farcast Biosciences, I lead translational oncology projects focused on solid tumors such as breast and head & neck cancers. With a strong foundation in microbiology and molecular biology, I specialize in maintaining the tumor microenvironment for ex vivo assays and driving immune-oncology research.My core responsibilities include:Leading R&D initiatives, assay development, and experimental workflows for internal oncology projects.Developing and optimizing bioassays (e.g, STR, Nanostring, cytokine assays) to assess immune modulation and drug efficacy.Isolating and analyzing nucleic acids from complex clinical specimens, applying molecular techniques like flow cytometry, PCR, and cell viability assays.Ensuring accurate data analysis and interpretation using platforms like GraphPad Prism and QuPath.Upholding quality control and assurance standards rooted in my early experience as a QA Officer.My multidisciplinary background also includes microbial ecology research with CSIR-NIO and strong leadership in project planning, team management, and GMP documentation. I bring a solution-oriented approach to collaborative science and a passion for impactful cancer research.

Education

• Mahatma Gandhi University

  Master of Science, Microbiology, General

• Mahatma Gandhi University

  Bachelor of Science, Microbiology, General

• MES college ,cochin

  Master’s Degree, Microbiology, General

  2010 — 2013

Skills

• Quality Management
• Food Microbiology
• Quality Assurance
• Quality Control
• Food Industry
• Gmp
• Quality System
• Food Science
• Food Safety
• Food Processing
• Microbiology