Saumya Samridhi

In Silico Discovery of Sterylglucosidase Inhibitors Targeting Cryptococcus neoformans Pathogenesis Conducted computational drug discovery research to identify potential inhibitors of sterylglucosidase (Sgl1), a promising antifungal target in Cryptococcus neoformans. Performed molecular dynamics simulation analysis, binding free energy calculations (MM-PBSA), structural visualization, and bioinformatics analyses to evaluate ligand stability and protein–ligand interactions.

Specialized in microbiology, molecular biology, microbial ecology, bioinformatics, and computational biology. Gained hands-on experience in microbiological and molecular techniques, environmental sample analysis, DNA extraction, microbial identification, and computational approaches including molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations. Completed a research thesis on identifying potential inhibitors against Cryptococcus neoformans using in silico methods.

Built a strong foundation in microbiology, biochemistry, genetics, immunology, molecular biology, and cell biology through coursework and laboratory training. Developed practical skills in microbial culturing, microscopy, biochemical assays, and fundamental molecular biology techniques, alongside scientific writing and data analysis.