Monika Kajal

Monika Kajal Headshot
Postdoctoral Associate
She/Her
[email protected]
650-695-8466
328 Alderman Hall
LinkedIn
Education
  • Ph.D. Panjab University, Biotechnology, 2019

Areas of Interest

Synthetic Biology, CRISPR, Technology Transfer, microRNA

Biography

Monika Kajal is a biotechnology researcher trained in plant molecular biology, algal biotechnology, and microbial metabolic engineering. She earned her Ph.D. in Biotechnology from Panjab University, Chandigarh, where she studied gene regulation, microRNA biology, and plant secondary metabolism. Her postdoctoral work has expanded across engineered algae and Yarrowia lipolytica, with a focus on CRISPR-based genome engineering, synthetic biology, lipid metabolism, and sustainable production of high-value compounds. Her current interests include dynamic regulation of metabolic pathways, reconstruction of plant-derived biosynthetic pathways in microbial hosts, and the translation of biotechnology research toward practical applications. She is also interested in technology transfer, responsible innovation, stakeholder engagement, and the broader societal impact of emerging biotechnologies.

Research

Monika Kajal is a molecular biologist and biotechnology researcher with expertise in genetic engineering, metabolic engineering, synthetic biology, and technology transfer. Her research focuses on engineering microbial and plant-based systems for sustainable production of high-value compounds and understanding gene regulation. She has experience with yeast, algae, and plant models, including CRISPR/Cas genome editing, CRISPRi, promoter engineering, molecular cloning, reporter assays, and lipid analysis. Her current work centers on engineering Yarrowia lipolytica using inducible and auto-inducible regulatory systems to improve lipid production. She also have keen interest into the social and ethical dimensions of emerging biotechnologies, stakeholder engagement, responsible innovation, and translating research outcomes toward practical applications.

Outreach

My outreach interests focus on communicating biotechnology research to broader audiences, mentoring students and junior researchers. I am also interested in technology transfer to help bridge research discoveries with practical applications that benefit society. I hope to contribute to outreach efforts that connect researchers, industry partners, policymakers, and community stakeholders to support informed discussions about biotechnology development and deployment.

Select Publications

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