This budding biotechnologist is developing a vaccine for chikungunya virus

Abhishek Goswami works as a Project Associate at Translational Health Science and Technology Institute in Faridabad. The Apeejay Stya University alumnus has been working on developing a vaccine for the chikungunya virus since quite some time. In an interesting interview, the former Integrated Biotech student from Apeejay’s School of Biosciences mentions about the world of science and how he burst into the same. Read edited excerpts:

Your work seems very interesting! Tell us about the research you are doing?

I am working on molecular biology, molecular microbiology and animal handling too. However, presently, I am also working on a project that targets to develop a vaccine against chikungunya virus. The research is going on over the virus. I am applying all my knowledge and putting in the work. Hoping for a breakthrough soon! 

What’s the story behind getting into this field?

Being a medical student, I attempted the NEET exam and then like most students, even  dropped a year to try again. However, I realised midway that I won’t make it (although I got a decent score of 430). Hence, I decided to change fields. I had an option of agriculture studies, however I was keen to pursue Biotechnology. 

How has the lab life been so far?

I was an intern in the lab in which I am currently working. So, I knew what I was getting into and was well-aware about the job and all my responsibilities. I am learning new things everyday, doing errors and trials, applying all my knowledge that I received at Apeejay into getting a breakthrough. Basically, I am doing all what science is in a nutshell.

A piece of advice for Biotech aspirants?

It is hard, so study! There is no other way around it. You are free-minded in college with no idea about the industry. You may have heard from your teachers or some people working in the industry. But, prepare yourself well during that time you have in your hand. 

Any reminisces about the ASU days?

Lot of things to say, but I would only say that Apeejay was very good to me. I made some friends there and the time I spent there was great, full of learning as well as rewarding. It prepared me for my career and shaped me well. 

What are your future plans?

I am focusing on getting more experience and learning new techniques. I am working on animals, which is a new field to me. I have to also take training in some time which will teach me how to work on live viruses. I am currently working on a pseudo virus created in the lab. I have learned a lot from this experience.