Neha Mathur

I am Neha Mathur. I have completed my Bachelors of Science from Jai Narayan Vyas University in 2013 and Master of Science degree from Lachoo Memorial College of Science and Technology in 2015 and emerged as a Gold Medalist. I have completed my Ph.D from the Department of Physics from Birla Institute of Technology And Science - Pilani in 2024. My PhD research focused on understanding the dynamics and stability of DNA under various conditions, exploring several key aspects of DNA behavior. The study began with a comprehensive literature review on DNA denaturation processes, including thermal and force-induced melting. After developing sufficient skills in atomistic molecular dynamics simulations, we used these techniques to enhance our understanding. In the initial phase of my research, I conducted model-based studies to investigate the effects of confinement and translocation of DNA. We further extended our studies to examine complex systems where DNA was coupled with gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) and the dynamics of force-induced unzipping of DNA in the presence of solvents. After enhancing my molecular dynamics simulation skills, I explored how DNA interacts with different crowding agents. This work provided key insights into DNA's behavior across different environments, setting the stage for more research on nucleic acid dynamics and their applications in science and medicine. 

I am currently engaged in postdoctoral research on biomolecular condensates, specifically focusing on stress granules. My project aims to investigate the heterogeneity in the viscoelastic properties of stress granules by analyzing these structures in their distinct regions. This includes examining viscoelastic properties to understand how these granules deform and respond to cellular stresses. Additionally, I explore phase separation dynamics to elucidate the conditions that lead to the formation and dissolution of these condensates, providing critical insights into the physics of phase separation. My research also delves into molecular interactions, examining how proteins and RNA within the granules interact and how these interactions impact their stability and properties. Another significant area of my study involves calculating diffusion and transport coefficients, which reveal how molecules are transported within and between condensates. To facilitate these studies, I employ coarse-grained simulation tools that allow us to model complex interactions.