Motivation Letter Utrecht University [PDF]

Citation preview

I am writing to express my sincere interest in pursuing a PhD within the framework of the research project “Traffic Control: optimal flow of nutrients to developing mushrooms”. My first research venture was as a MSc. Dissertation student, I joined Prof. (Dr.) Rosamma Philip research group at Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT) for the MSc. dissertation project entitled “Antimicrobial peptides derived from Sin Croaker”. The objective of this project was focused on isolation of antimicrobial peptides from the Sin croaker, Johnius dussumieri and determining its antimicrobial activity in vitro. In my dissertation, I have used modified acetic acidacetone method, Sep-pak ® c-18 cartridges (Waters, USA) and Fast Protein Liquid Chromatography- FPLC
for the purification and Liquid growth inhibition assay to determine antimicrobial activity.



After finishing my masters, I learned a lot about myself and about working with people in different disciplines. I also strengthened my conviction to be a scientist. For that reason, I joined at National Centre for Antarctic & Ocean Research, Ministry of Earth Sciences (India) for six months as an intern under the supervision of Dr. P.V Bhaskar. Here I am undergoing analysis on water samples from Indian Southern Ocean Expedition and Equatorial samples. Analysis like Quantification of Exopolysaccharides (EPS) by phenol sulphuric acid method, enumeration of microorganisms in samples by DAPI staining, Identification of siderophore producing microorganisms by CAS assay, Isolation of DNA from isolates producing good amount of EPS followed by PCR amplification.



In my undergraduate coursework I have been introduced to various facets of the microbiology. During this time I attended seminars and lectures by many eminent professors, which further whetted my passion. Gradually I learned that these studies on microorganisms could lead to vital developments in science. I graduated from the Bharathiar University, Coimbatore (India) and after that I got selected for masters in marine microbiology in Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS) Kochi, through a competitive entrance examination.



The academic environment at KUFOS, Kochi has fostered my research interest. I have taken credit courses on marine bioactive molecules, microbial oceanography, (microbial taxonomy, systematics and diversity), (instrumentation and techniques in microbiology and molecular biology) and relevant laboratory courses. In my laboratory works I have been introduced to a variety of analytical tools: FPLC, PCR, TOC analyzer. Being conversed with these analytical tools will certainly help me in my research. I believe that these skills and experience will allow me to complete a larger- scale project like a PhD effectively. I now wish to continue my academic career with a PhD. Utrecht University congregates the best researchers on a single platform. An opportunity to interact with several great researchers of present time would be a golden chance for anyone. In such a dynamic environment, I am sure I would be able to achieve my full potential and meet the high standards of the institute thereby helping me to become an excellent researcher and a great instructor. I believe that I am a bright, hard-working and motivated individual who wishes to gain the tools to innovate and improve the future of mankind. After receiving my PhD degree, I would be able to fulfill my ambition of learning to conduct experiments efficiently and serve science by my knowledge. I am looking forward to learn a lot and contribute my bit.