Ananya Agarwal

Mentorship III Research Program, Chory Lab at Duke University

• Engineered the E. coli C321 bacterial strain to develop and optimize a novel platform for protein optimization via directed evolution.
• Executed multi-step molecular cloning protocols, including PCR for gene amplification, electroporation for bacterial transformation, and blue-white screening to validate genetic constructs.
• Meticulously documented all experimental procedures, data, and analysis in a formal laboratory notebook and presented progress reports during weekly lab meetings.

Research Experience in Chemistry

• Investigated computational drug design pathways for Tourette Syndrome, utilizing StarDrop software to model and assess the binding affinity of novel ligand structures with a target protein.
• Applied foundational organic chemistry principles, including functional group analysis and molecular structures, to inform the rational design of potential therapeutic compounds.
• Compiled research methodology and findings into a formal scientific poster and report submitted to the North Carolina Regional Science and Engineering Fair.

Biology TA, Molecular Genetics & Evolution

• Mentored high school students in advanced biology courses, clarifying complex topics in molecular genetics and evolutionary theories to deepen their conceptual understanding.
• Prepared and facilitated laboratory activities, guiding students through hands-on experiments and reinforcing proper scientific techniques and safety protocols.
• Developed and led weekly review sessions to reinforce key concepts, answer student questions, and prepare them for examinations on topics ranging from DNA replication to phylogenetics.