Karun Wilson

Experience

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  CSIR India

  Jul 2018 - Sept 2023

  Research Assistant

  Engaged in multidisciplinary research focusing on molecular biology, plant tissue culture, taxonomy, and conservation to support the sustainable use and preservation of endangered medicinal plant species.• Conducted genetic diversity studies using ISSR markers and developed DNA barcodes for Rare, Endangered, and Threatened (RET) medicinal plants to aid in their identification and conservation.• Optimized tissue culture protocols for shooting and rooting media of medicinal plants such as Aristolochia tagala, enabling efficient in vitro propagation for conservation and industrial applications.• Played a pivotal role in the lectotypification of Garcinia gummi-gutta, contributing to systematic taxonomy.• Documented and maintained live collections of various endangered medicinal plant species from the Western Ghats of India, facilitating the generation of genetic data and their long-term storage in gene banks. Show less

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  Vellore Institute of Technology

  Jul 2020 - now

  Research Assistant

  Contributed to cutting-edge research and teaching initiatives in the field of plant-microbe interactions, with a focus on improving plant resilience and productivity under stress conditions. Supported undergraduate and postgraduate students in laboratory techniques and scientific methodology.• Conducted screening of tomato varieties under controlled environments to identify resistance to early blight (Alternaria solani).• Investigated protein-protein interactions between host-pathogen systems, employing advanced structure prediction tools like AlphaFold2.• Performed LC-MS/MS metabolomics analysis to profile microbial consortium effects on tomato plants and identify bioactive metabolites.• Executed NGS data analysis and metagenomic studies for microbial community characterization and developed bioformulations from organic manure to combat EB infections.• Analyzed soil nutrients using Kjeldahl nitrogen analyzer and Photoelectric flame photometer for precision agriculture insights.• Gained expertise in GC-MS analysis for compound profiling and SEM imaging for ultrastructural studies. Show less

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  Griesson - de Beukelaer GmbH & Co. KG

  Jul 2024 - Nov 2024

  Production Team Member

  Contributed as a vital member of the production team in one of Germany's leading confectionery manufacturers, ensuring high-quality standards and smooth operational workflows in a fast-paced environment.• Operated and monitored automated production machinery for the large-scale manufacturing of premium cookies and confectionery products, adhering to strict quality and hygiene standards.• Conducted regular quality checks during production to ensure compliance with company and regulatory standards, contributing to consistent product excellence.• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to maintain seamless production schedules, optimize operational efficiency, and meet daily production targets.• Assisted in the implementation of standard operating procedures (SOPs) to uphold safety and efficiency in the production line.• Maintained a clean and organized workspace, ensuring adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and fostering a safe working environment. Show less

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  Friedrich Schiller University Jena

  Oct 2024 - Oct 2024

  External research assistant

  Supported the renowned Jena Experiment, one of the longest-running biodiversity-ecosystem functioning (BEF) research initiatives globally, funded by DFG (FOR 5000). This cutting-edge project focuses on uncovering ecological and evolutionary mechanisms underpinning BEF relationships, addressing both short- and long-term dynamics in biodiversity.• Assisted in maintaining experimental biodiversity plots to ensure experimental integrity and accurate results.• Contributed to fieldwork essential for examining ecosystem functioning, preserving designated biodiversity levels across experimental plots.• Supported the research team by identifying and managing non-target plant species while minimizing disturbances to the experimental design.• Ensured high standards of accuracy and efficiency in field operations, directly contributing to the reliability of long-term ecological data. Show less