zainab fatima

Molecular & Translational Biologist | Expertise in Cell Cycle, p53 Regulation, PROTACs | Advanced Cell Culture, Co-culture, Imaging & In Vivo Models | Research & Mentorship

Tampa, Florida, United States

About

I am a biomedical researcher with over 12 years of experience in molecular oncology, translational biology, and mechanistic research, specializing in culturing cancer cell lines, primary human cells, and advanced co-culture systems. These systems are central to my work, allowing me to study cellular interactions, signaling pathways, and disease mechanisms in physiologically relevant models, providing insights that can be translated into therapeutic strategies. My expertise spans cell cycle regulation, apoptosis, p53 signaling, and targeted protein degradation via PROTACs, integrating in vitro mechanistic studies with in vivo knock-in and knock-out models. I design and execute experiments that connect molecular mechanisms to functional outcomes, particularly in oncology and pulmonary fibrosis research. Technically, I am proficient in molecular biology techniques such as PCR, qRT-PCR, Western blotting, immunoprecipitation, and CRISPR/Cas gene editing. I perform functional assays in primary and immortalized cell cultures, co-culture systems, proliferation/apoptosis assays, chemotaxis and migration studies, and high-resolution imaging including fluorescence, confocal, immunofluorescence, Trichrome, and H&E staining. I also bring extensive administrative and quality management experience, having developed and implemented SOPs, QPs, and work instructions (WIs), managed internal and external audits, ensured ISO compliance, and overseen CAP sample handling and documentation. These skills ensure operational excellence and reproducibility in complex research environments. Alongside my research and administrative work, I have significant teaching and mentorship experience, guiding students and junior researchers in laboratory techniques, experimental design, and mechanistic reasoning, fostering critical thinking, technical proficiency, and scientific independence. I am committed to turning discoveries in molecular and cellular biology into practical insights that improve human health. I aim to advance research that links basic science to new therapies, while mentoring the next generation of scientists and fostering a culture of collaboration, rigor, and excellence.

Experience

  • Postdoctoral Research Associate at University of South Florida

    • Conduct and oversee experiments using knock-in and knock-out animal models to study pulmonary fibrosis. • Supervise and mentor lab staff, including undergraduate students, research associates, and postdocs. • Manage inventory, retrieve samples, and ensure adherence to lab protocols. • Communicate experimental results effectively to collaborators and researchers. • Techniques: ELISA, Trichrome & H&E staining, fluorescent microscopy, qRT-PCR, Western blot, migration and chemotaxis assays.

  • Senior Quality Assurance Coordinator/Certification at Excel Labs (Pvt) Ltd

    • Managed lab quality systems in compliance with ISO 15189:2012 & 19011:2018. • Developed and implemented SOPs, QPs, and WIs, conducted internal/external audits, and maintained records. • Coordinated CAP sample shipments, results follow-up, and evaluation.

  • Assistant Professor at HEC

    Teaching BS students and research

  • Postdoctoral Scholar at Moffitt Cancer Center

    Molecular biology, oncology, PROTACs

  • Head of Science at Career School and Girls College

    • Supervised lab staff and experiments, managed faculty, and coordinated academic and research projects. • Organized meetings, facilitated teaching programs, and ensured curriculum compliance.