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Leading the Vision
Barun Mahata, PhD
Dr. Barun Mahata leads the EpiEdit Lab at inStem, where his group develops programmable molecular tools to study and engineer gene-regulatory systems, including the epigenome, transcriptome and epitranscriptome. His research integrates CRISPR-based regulation, genome engineering, synthetic biology, and cell-fate programming to understand how gene expression can be precisely controlled in mammalian cells.
Before joining inStem, Dr. Mahata carried out postdoctoral research at Rice University, where he worked on next-generation epigenome editing technologies. He contributed to the development of CRISPR-DREAM, a compact CRISPR activation platform designed for precise and efficient control of endogenous gene expression.
His earlier research background includes cancer biology, tumor immunology, and genome editing, with studies on glioblastoma-associated immune suppression and tumor-cell regulation. Together, these experiences shape the EpiEdit Lab’s broader goal of building advanced molecular systems for disease modelling, cellular reprogramming, and future therapeutic applications.
Meet the Minds behind our Research
Our lab fosters a collaborative, inclusive and curiosity-driven environment where innovation is encouraged and scientific rigor is upheld. We value open communication, mutual respect and continuous learning, creating a supportive space for both independent inquiry and teamwork. With a strong commitment to mentorship and professional growth, we empower each member to contribute meaningfully to our shared mission. Our culture emphasizes integrity, accountability and a passion for advancing translational research that can make a tangible impact on human health.
Swagata Adhikari, PhD
Postdoctoral Scholar
Sabitree Patel, MSc
Project Associate
Anwesha Dutta, MSc
PhD Scholar
From EpiEdit Lab to the World
The journey doesn't end here. Our alumni carry forward the values of scientific excellence, integrity and collaboration into diverse careers spanning academia, industry, entrepreneurship and clinical research. As ambassadors of our lab, they continue to contribute to groundbreaking discoveries and mentor future generations, strengthening our growing global network of researchers.
Advait Shenoy, MSc
Masters Dissertation Student
January 2026 - June 2026
Baibhab Chakraborty, MSc
Masters Dissertation Student
March 2026 - July 2026
He joined the lab as a masters dissertation trainee. He recently completed his Integrated M.Sc. in Biotechnology from St. Xavier's College (Autonomous), Kolkata. His research interests include immunology, autoimmunity, host-pathogen interactions, cell biology & molecular biology. At the EpiEdit Lab, he worked on developing epigenome editing strategies for Prader - Willi Syndrome associated genes.
Outside the lab, he enjoys photography, digital designing, reading about emerging biomedical technologies.
Anoushka Shrivastava, BTech
inStem SuRF 2026 Scholar
Yashvi, BSc
Research Intern
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