Hi, my name is

Vaibhav Kulkarni.

A jack of all trades,
master of some ;)

I am a passionate bioinformatics researcher with a new-found love for web development.
From sequencing genomes to debugging CSS—turns out, I still can’t seem to escape alignment issues!

About Me

I am Vaibhav Kulkarni.

My experience spans across web development, bioinformatics pipelines, and data analysis, which allows me to contribute to both scientific research and modern web technologies. When I’m not coding or researching, you can find me exploring the latest in bioinformatics tools or contributing to open-source projects.

Technologies and tools I've been working with recently:
  • HTML
  • CSS
  • JavaScript
  • Node.js
  • Python
  • R

Experience

Masters Research Student - Masters
Jan 2023 - present

Currently studying evolutionary relationships in viral species using bioinformatic approaches.

  • Developed custom bioinformatics scripts using Python,Bash and R to automate viral metagenome analysis.
  • Improved data processing efficiency by over 90% through the implementation of parallel processing based workflows.
  • Presented research findings at the Ottawa Carleton Biology Symposium with an attendance of 200+ people.
Lab Demonstrator - Lab Dem TA
Jan 2023 - present

Taught multiple lab sections for undergraduate courses like genetics, evolutionary biology and plant systematics.

  • Responsible for grading quizzes,assignments and supervising students in laboratory settings.
  • Mentored and guided 50+ students in executing complex lab protocols.
  • Led a team of lab assistants in setting up experiments and maintaining safety standards.
Honors Research Student - Honors
Sep 2022 - Apr 2023

Researched histone modifications in goldfish under chronic hypoxia, contributing to advancements in epigenetic research.

  • Developed new sample handling protocols to prevent contamination, improving experiment reproducibility by 25%.
  • Solved data inconsistencies by troubleshooting the sequencing pipeline, ensuring accurate results.
Tutor - Freelance
June 2017 - Nov 2019

Developed and delivered personalized tutoring sessions for high school and college students in biology and chemistry.

  • Customized Learning Plans: Assessed individual learning styles and academic goals to create tailored educational plans that addressed cognitive diversity and improved engagement.
  • Learning Outcome Optimization: Boosted student performance by adapting instructional methods based on student progress, achieving measurable improvements in exam scores for 80% of students.
  • Skill Development: Mentored students to develop critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and subject mastery in preparation for standardized exams and college admissions.
  • Feedback and Improvement: Conducted regular assessments and provided detailed feedback to students and parents, adjusting study plans to continuously enhance learning outcomes.
  • Use of Technology: Incorporated digital tools like interactive simulations and virtual labs to make learning more engaging and accessible.
Strength Statistics - Miscellaneous
Sep 2019 - present
  • Squat: 113 kg (250 lbs) — Consistently working on improving leg strength, focusing on proper technique and controlled depth.
  • Deadlift: 129 kg (285 lbs) — Achieved personal bests through progressive overload training and technique refinement.
  • Bench Press: 75 kg (165 lbs) — Focused on increasing upper body strength and chest development with consistent training.
  • Overhead Press: 45 kg (100 lbs) — Continuously working on shoulder stability and pressing strength.

Education

2023 - 2025
Master of Science in Biology (Bioinformatics)
University of Ottawa

Specializing in Bioinformatics with a focus on phylogenetic analysis and microbial research.

  • Researching microbial species diversity using bioinformatics tools and approaches.
  • Working on large-scale genomic data analysis to explore evolutionary patterns.
  • Actively involved in the Ottawa Carleton Biology Symposium, presenting research on geographical biases in viral databases.
2019 - 2023
Bachelor of Science in Biology (Honors)
University of Ottawa

Graduated MAGNA CUM LAUDE with a specialization in Cellular and Molecular Biology.

  • Completed an honors thesis on the role of histone modifications in goldfish under chronic hypoxia.
  • Presented undergraduate research at departmental conferences, receiving recognition for contributions to epigenetics.
High School Diploma (Science Stream)
Jai Hind College, Mumbai

Projects

Offline Folium Map with Popups
Python R Bash
Offline Folium Map with Popups
Designed and developed an interactive Folium map with popups, functional offline for research and educational purposes.
Personal Blog Website
HTML CSS Javascript
Personal Blog Website
Designed, developed and deployed my own personal website to showcase my portfolio, research, and blog.
Field Stations Mapping App
JavaScript Google Maps API HTML
Field Stations Mapping App
Developed a web app to map and display research field stations. The app helps track station locations, research data, and logistical information for Dr. Gabriel Guillet’s lab.

Achievements

Dean's Honour List (Recognition of Excellence)
Recognized for academic excellence through disciplined research and coursework at the University of Ottawa.
Ottawa Carleton Biology Symposium Presentation
Presented research on mitigating geographical biases in viral reference databases, improving global data accuracy and representation.
Graduate Representative - Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Committee
Elected as a graduate representative at the University of Ottawa to promote equitable academic policies and foster inclusivity.
Professional Development Officer - Biology Graduate Students' Association (BGSA)
Elected as the Professional Development Officer for the BGSA, leading workshops on career planning and academic development for graduate students.

Get in Touch

My inbox is always open. Whether you have a question or just want to say hi, I’ll try my best to get back to you!