Vedi Patel

Designed and executed molecular dynamics simulations (GROMACS/NAMD) to investigate salinity-tolerance mechanisms in Halobacterium salinarum, focusing on bacteriorhodopsin stability and potassium-ion regulation under high-salt conditions.

Modeled bacteriorhodopsin and K+ transport proteins using PDB structures, analyzing ion binding, conformational changes, and protein function across varying ionic concentrations.

Integrated computational and bioinformatics data to propose mechanisms for H. salinarum to maintain osmotic balance and energy metabolism in extreme hypersaline environments.

Studied *D. radiodurans* DNA repair and antioxidant systems for space radiation protection, contributing to understanding microbial resilience in extreme environments.

Modeled RecA-mediated repair and Mn2+ complex ROS scavenging using Excel and literature-based simulations, enhancing data analysis capabilities.

Proposed synthetic biology applications for engineered microbes in astronaut shielding and biomaterials, advancing novel solutions for space exploration.

Built high-accuracy AlphaFold3 models of NLRP3, ASC, NEK7, and pro-Caspase-1, utilizing PyMOL and cryo-EM validation to analyze complex architecture.

Identified key structural interfaces stabilizing and activating pro-Caspase-1 within the inflammasome, mapping NEK7's role in altering NLRP3 complex geometry.

Produced the first complete multi-component structural model of pro-Caspase-1 in the inflammasome, revealing new structural targets for potential inhibitor design.

Completed a competitive 6-week academic and clinical enrichment program, including coursework in Anatomy & Physiology, Pharmacology, and Critical Analysis.

Gained clinical exposure through interprofessional simulations and rotations at University Hospital, developing skills in teamwork, health equity, and cultural competency.

Participated in workshops on healthcare policy, social determinants of health, structural racism, leadership, and academic strategies to support success in medicine.

Conducted literature-based research on extremophiles, focusing on DNA repair, metabolic pathways, and protein stability in extreme environments.

Investigated applications in bioregenerative life support, planetary protection, and microbial resilience for space missions, contributing to NASA's Science and Space Technology Mission Directorates.

Presented research findings at the inaugural MOSAICS conference (December 2024), the 2025 Human Research Program Investigators' Workshop (January 2025), and the Annual Academic Year Internship Poster Session at Rutgers-Camden (April 2025).

Processed customer transactions efficiently as a Cashier, managing cash and card payments.

Assisted with inventory management, including stocking shelves and organizing products, ensuring accurate records.

Maintained a clean and organized work environment, contributing to a positive shopping experience for customers.

Supervised children of all ages in after-school programs, ensuring a safe and engaging environment for all participants.

Helped with homework and facilitated diverse activities such as arts and crafts, movie screenings, and interactive games like Just Dance.

Conducted biochemistry research, maintaining laboratory equipment and operations, with a focus on comparative optimization of Caspase-1 expression in *E. coli* and enzyme kinetics for anti-inflammatory research.

Presented research findings at the Minority Science and Engineering Improvement Program Virtual Student Research Conference (October 2024), 16th Annual LSAMP STEM Research Conference (November 2024), and 2025 Annual Meeting of the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (April 2025).

Proficiently utilized laboratory skills including pipetting, gel electrophoresis, inoculation, protein purification, and enzyme kinetics using spectrophotometry and Nanodrop.

Developed key soft skills such as innovation, initiative, perseverance, and problem-solving, enhancing workplace effectiveness and leadership capabilities.

Applied technical skills in real-life situations, demonstrating practical application of scientific knowledge.

Conducted biochemistry research, maintaining laboratory equipment and operations, and executing laboratory studies on pyroptosis and apoptosis pathways in THP-1 cell lines.

Collaborated with two fellow undergraduates to write scientific experiments and co-authored a publication titled "The Effects of TAT-86 and FADD on the Pyroptosis and Apoptosis Pathways in the THP-1 Cell Line."

Presented research at the Union City Virtual Science Fair (September 2023) and the 65th Annual Jersey City Medical Center/RWJBarnabas Health STEM Showcase (March 2023), winning a Gold Medal.

Awarded the ACS Project SEED Scholarship for 2022-2023, recognizing excellence in scientific research.

Demonstrated proficiency in pipetting, gel electrophoresis, western blotting, inoculating, gel staining, and protein purification.

Collected campus-wide photos from clubs, organizations, athletic teams, and senior events for the Class of 2026 yearbook.

Contributed to layout planning, content organization, and overall production of the university yearbook.

Managed and tracked the Senior Class budget, overseeing spending and requesting additional funding when needed.

Coordinated collaborations, room bookings, and logistics to support cost-efficient programming.

Assisted in planning and hosting Senior Class events and trips, including Picture, Paint & Paint Party, Senior Brunch, and the Senior Trip.

Mentored new SI Leaders by providing guidance, feedback, and informal session observations to support their professional development.

Assisted in training sessions, biweekly meetings, and recruitment efforts, ensuring adherence to SI program standards.

Promoted program visibility through campus outreach, built community among leaders, and supported leadership transitions.

Managed club communications and operations, including Instagram content, email outreach, event promotion, budgeting, and collaboration coordination.

Coordinated events like Atomic Symbol Bingo and collaborations with Pre-dental, engaging students in chemistry.

Participated in ACS National Chemistry Week and the NJACS's 31st Annual ChemExpo, showcasing experiments for all.

Managed club communications and operations, including Instagram content, email outreach, event promotion, budgeting, and collaboration coordination.

Coordinated events like Atomic Symbol Bingo and collaborations with Pre-dental, engaging students in biochemistry.

Managed club finances by allocating the university-provided budget for events and resources.

Assisted executive board members with planning and coordinating activities.

Led recruitment efforts through tabling events and outreach.

Attended bi-weekly meetings for professional development, enhancing instructional skills.

Developed structured lesson plans and facilitated twice-weekly interactive study sessions to reinforce key biology concepts.

Utilized Outlook and Blackboard to keep students updated on session timings, destinations, and materials.

Managed club communications, including Instagram content, email outreach, and promotional materials for events.

Coordinated and executed events including Gelato Lab, Biochem Trivia Night, and a community outreach project where members painted and decorated eggs for children.

Attended monthly mentorship meetings to set and review academic and career goals, assess progress, and explore available resources for success.

Participated in professional development workshops on resume writing, cover letter crafting, and other essential career skills.

Completed financial wellness modules on iGrad, enhancing financial literacy and planning skills.

Reached out to everyone through social media platforms like Instagram and Outlook.

Managed the NJCU Class of 2027 Instagram page to keep students informed about events and initiatives.

Created, organized, and managed events, and collaborated with others when possible.

Participated in a program that supports academic development and helps students meet basic college requirements.

Attended club meetings and events focused on medical careers.

Learned about internships, job opportunities, and clinical hour requirements.

Gained insights from guest speakers on how to stand out in the medical field and prepared for the MCAT through club resources and guidance.

Attended club meetings and events to explore careers in chemistry.

Engaged with guest speakers to gain industry insights, internship opportunities, and career guidance.

Attended club meetings and events to explore careers in the dental field.

Engaged with guest speakers to gain industry insights, internship opportunities, and career guidance.

Attended club meetings and events to explore careers as a physician assistant.

Engaged with guest speakers to gain industry insights, internship opportunities, and career guidance.

Assisted with food preparation and event setup for various temple functions and community gatherings.

Decorated and organized temple events, enhancing the aesthetic and functional aspects of celebrations.

Supported temple operations, event coordination, and community outreach efforts, contributing to smooth functioning.

Explored medical topics, including cardiology, mental health, infectious diseases, and oncology.

Gained insights into orthopedics, health equity, and social justice in healthcare.