Dr. Arvind K. Gupta
Post-Doc,
National Institute of Chemistry, Ljubljana
Can you explain your research within Virofight in 2 sentences?
I am involved in the design of coiled coil-based protein binders which would form a cage-like structure around the targeted virus.
What do your friends and family think of what you are doing in the lab?
They are aware of the kind of work I am doing here and understand the importance of the outcome for the human health.
What are you really doing? What’s your favourite/least task or method to do in the lab?
I am involved in the cloning, purification and biophysical characterization of protein binders. These protein binders will be used for neutralization of viruses and cage formation experiments.
Which virus is the most interesting one and why?
Currently, I am focusing on SARS-CoV-2 and seem quite interesting to me as there are still mutants arising and we need to be prepared for any highly pathogenic mutants in the future.
What is the major challenge in research for you?
In the kind of research we are pursuing, each step is challenging.
Cell or Nature? Cell
PC or Mac? Mac
Coffee or Tea? Both. Tea, because I am from India. Fell in love with coffee in Slovenia
Why does your research matter to the general public?
It matters to them a lot. We are constantly working for a better health and future of humankind.
The must-follow science twitter account?
@EMBOevents
Which publication influenced you most?
There are many. It can’t be one. As per Virofight project, I would say “De novo design of picomolar SARS-CoV-2 miniprotein inhibitors“, Cao et al., Science, 2020
What else do you like to read, except research articles?
Nothing in particular, mostly news article related to politics, sports and science.
What is your personal highlight in Virofight up to now?
It’s a well-designed project with prudent ideas. We are getting quite interesting results.
What’s your favourite thing to do outside the lab?
I go for swing dances in free time.
Best recent TV series or movie or novel depicting scientists?
The Last Ship