Saloni Bhatia
James Cook University
I’m a first year PhD student at the Schmitz lab in James Cook University, Townsville. I work on optimizing analyses of single-cell long-read sequencing data from cancer patients to identify key biological insights. My goal is to build methods to predict cancer outcomes and therapeutic strategies. Before starting my PhD, I gained over a year of experience in a diagnostic genetics lab in Bangalore, India. During this time, I collaborated closely with clinical teams to interpret and report genetic variants in patients with rare Mendelian disorders.
Can you describe the area of mathematics or bioinformatics you’re focusing on, and what you hope to achieve through your research?
I use bioinformatics to decipher sequencing data. Currently, I’m studying liver cancer using cutting-edge single-cell long-read sequencing. Think of cancer as a jigsaw puzzle where each cell is a piece. Ideally, you’d use a reference image and group the pieces. Long-read sequencing will tell you how complete a piece is or if it is fragmented. Single-cell sequencing identifies each piece and can help you quantify how many of each type are present. Using this information, we can now assemble the puzzle and reveal how cells function and interact with each other.
My focus is on streamlining methods to analyse single-cell long-read data, uncover patterns of alternative splicing and see how they differ in cancer and non-cancer cells. These insights could help us understand how liver cancer develops, identify potential treatment targets, and predict patient outcomes more accurately.
What inspired you to pursue a career in bioinformatics or the mathematical sciences?
During my undergraduate studies, I spent two months interning in a molecular biology lab, primarily engaged in traditional wet lab experiments. However, I had the chance to explore computational work, and I quickly realized that I enjoyed analysing data far more than working at the bench. Navigating through a human genome on my computer screen excited me back then and, in a way, gave me direction. Later, as I applied bioinformatics to understand human diseases and witnessed how these insights could be translated into clinical applications, I knew this was the path I wanted to pursue.
If you could give advice to your younger self, what would it be?
I’d say be open to new opportunities and experiences. To anyone starting out in this field, my advice would be to make sure you build a solid foundation. There will be many learning curves along the way, you have got to be patient.
How was your AMSI BioInfoSummer experience?
My experience at AMSI BioInfoSummer was incredibly fruitful. I attended because the theme this year focused on technologies that are directly relevant to my PhD research. The talks and workshops provided valuable insights, and interacting with both peers and speakers helped broaden my perspective. To peers, I would highly recommend it as a great opportunity to learn about the latest research advancements and gain hands-on experience with the technical skills that are shaping the field.
You received an AMSI BioInfoSummer travel grant to attend in person. How did this grant impact your ability to participate fully?
The travel grant helped me fund and plan my journey. Without the grant I would not have been able to attend the event in person. Some aspects of the event such as the networking session/ poster session are really best utilized if attended in person.
What was the most valuable experience or takeaway from AMSI BioInfoSummer?
The workshops were the key takeaways for me—they provided hands-on experience and deepened my understanding of key bioinformatics concepts. I also really valued the opportunity to interact with peers, learn about their research interests, and share a collaborative learning experience. It was inspiring to see how diverse the field is and how everyone approaches similar challenges from different perspectives.
Where do you see your journey in mathematical sciences taking you in the next 5–10 years?
Immediately, I’ll be applying the knowledge and skills I gained at AMSI BioInfoSummer to my PhD research. The workshops and insights have given me a fresh perspective and new ideas for my current projects. In the next few years, after completing my PhD, I see myself perusing an academic role that bridges research and clinical practice. I aim to build and apply bioinformatics tools that uncover clinically relevant insights into human diseases, contributing to personalized medicine and improved patient care.
Is there anything else you’d like to share about your experience or feedback on AMSI BioInfoSummer or the travel grant?
I’d like to thank the organizers of AMSI BioInfoSummer for putting together such a well-thought-out and well-executed event. It provided an invaluable platform for upcoming researchers like me to connect with peers, share ideas, and gain fresh perspectives on bioinformatics. The effort and planning behind the event were truly appreciated.