Pavan Kakumani, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor

Post-Doc: CRCHU de Québec-Université Laval, Québec, Canada.

Ph.D.: International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) New Delhi.

B.Tech.: Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University (JNTU), Hyderabad, India.

Email: pavan.kakumani@mun.ca

ORCiD: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8755-860X

Sushmitha Ramakrishna

PhD Student, E-mail: sushmithar@mun.ca

I am from Mysore, a beautiful city in the southern part of India. I completed my Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Biochemistry from the University of Mysore. After my Master’s, I started my PhD journey in Dr. Kakumani’s lab in 2022. In our lab, I am trying to uncover the mysteries surrounding how siRNAs regulate AGO2-mediated gene silencing in mouse embryonic stem cells. 

Outside of my research, I like hiking, movies, and music. 

Arezou Arvand

MSc student, E-mail: aarvand@mun.ca

I grew up in a small village called Algen in the south of Iran. I completed my Bachelor's degree from Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz where my interest in Genetics has grown. I am so curious about cell signaling and gene regulation. I joined Kakumani’s lab in June 2023 to start my graduate studies and find the answer to my questions while questioning more things! (This cycle has been my whole life!)

Outside the lab, I am a hair and skin counselor and I love learning about fashion. I also love being in nature and focusing on how natural things work in the world.

Mahammed Zaid Patel

MSc student, E-mail: mahammedarip@mun.ca

I am from Bharuch, the oldest city in Gujarat, India. I completed my bachelor's degree from P P Savani University, located in Surat, Gujarat. Ever since high school, I have nurtured a deep curiosity about the molecular machinery of the human body and the causes of diseases like cancer. I am joining Kakumani Lab as a graduate student in September 2023. I am particularly interested in studying the role of piRNAs in somatic and stem cell differentiation as part of my research focus.

In addition to my academic pursuits, I have a great passion for exploring new places, meeting new people, and indulging in the delights of various cuisines.                       

Yuguan Jiang

MSc student, E-mail: yuguanj@mun.ca

I am from Shenyang, Liaoning Province, a city in northeastern China. Between 2018-2023, I received my bachelor's degree in clinical pharmacy from China Medical University. During my undergraduate studies, I developed an interest in studying cells from the DNA and RNA and protein levels. I am joining Kakumani's lab in September 2023 as a graduate student and am studying piRNAs and the role of PIWI proteins in living organisms.

In addition, I am a philosophy enthusiast, enjoy jogging and painting.                     

Beauty Dam

MSc Student, Email: bdam@mun.ca

I am from Sylhet, a beautiful green city in the north-eastern part of Bangladesh. With a Bachelor’s degree in Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology from Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, my research interests lie in cancer biology and precision medicine. I am joining the Kakumani Lab in May 2025 to begin my graduate studies, focusing on gene regulation.

Besides academic life, I enjoy watching dramas and discovering scenic natural landscapes.

Claire Hynes

Research Assistant

I just completed my B.Sc Biochemistry (Honors). I joined Kakumani Lab group in 2022 and where I have been studying the role of CSDE1 missense variants and the miRNA pathway in the development of autism spectrum disorders.

When not in the lab, I enjoy swimming, skiing, and hiking.

Evan Williams

Biochemistry (BSc) Honors Student

I am currently completing my B.Sc Biochemistry (Honors) degree under the supervision of Dr. Kakumani. I was honored to join Kakumani Lab in October 2023 and am pursuing studies related to the Piwi protein, MIWI. I take great personal interest in diseases and disorders which impact the human body, and the molecular basis from which they arise.

Beyond my studies and work within Kakumani Lab, I thoroughly enjoy volunteering, running and acquiring new life skills, such as completing American Sign Language courses.

Mason Waye

Faculty of Science Summar Undergraduate Research Award (FoS SURA)

I am currently completing my B.Sc. as a Joint Honours in Human Biosciences and Behavioural Neuroscience. I joined the Kakumani lab in Spring 2024, where I am studying the crosstalk between CSDE1 and AGO2 in embryonic stem cells. 

Outside of the lab, I am passionate about fitness, music, and spending time with my family.

Sanuda Jayasinghe

Faculty of Science Summar Undergraduate Research Award (FoS SURA)

I was born in Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka. I am pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Human Biosciences with a minor in Psychology at Memorial University of Newfoundland. I joined Kakumani Lab in early 2025, where I have developed an interest in gene editing and its further implications in health and disease.

Outside my studies, you will most likely catch me at the gym, playing the piano, or drawing. Additionally, I love spending my free time outdoors and volunteering.

Lucas Hiscock

NSERC Undergraduate Student Research Award (NSERC USRA)

I am currently entering my second year of the B.Sc. Human Biosciences program. I joined Kakumani Lab in January 2025 and am studying the role of erythropoietic miR-486.

In addition to my studies and work, I enjoy playing volleyball, swimming, and going to the gym.