We are pleased to welcome Dr Onkar Nath as NCARD’s new Research Associate. Dr Nath is an expert in genomics, bioinformatics, and molecular biology, with over a decade of experience translating complex multi-omic data into meaningful biological insights. His skills will strengthen NCARD’s work to better understand the molecular drivers of asbestos-related diseases.
Dr Nath began his scientific career in India, working at the National Institute of Plant Genome Research, Indian Institute of Information Technology Delhi, Delhi University and Jawaharlal Nehru University. His research explored epigenetic regulation and the role of non-coding RNAs, using technologies such as ChIP-Seq and RNA-Seq, and included analysis of both long and short read DNA and RNA data.
During his PhD at the University of Queensland, Dr Nath led the assembly of a haplotype-resolved, chromosomal-level avocado genome. This work has enabled an in-depth analysis of novel genes, with important implications for crop improvement.
His experience spans multiple fields and roles, including:
- Senior Molecular and Bioinformatics Scientist, Northern Territory Government – developing metabarcoding and environmental DNA (eDNA) surveillance pipelines
- Research Fellow, La Trobe University – focusing on pan-genome and chromatin accessibility analysis.
Dr Nath’s technical expertise includes genome assembly, pan-genomics, single-cell transcriptomics, and epigenetic analyses such as ATAC-Seq.
Driving discovery at NCARD
At NCARD, Dr Nath will apply his skills in next-generation sequencing and bioinformatics pipelines to help reveal how asbestos exposure leads to disease.
“Genomic data is key to understanding disease, but it needs careful interpretation,” he says. “My work is about creating a clear narrative from complex data to guide research and, ultimately, improve outcomes.”
A passion for collaboration
Dr Nath has a strong record of mentoring junior researchers and collaborating across disciplines. He is keen to work with NCARD colleagues on projects involving bioinformatics.
“My work is most powerful when it supports the questions and hypotheses of others. Please feel free to reach out.”
Dr Onkar Nath, NCARD
We look forward to the insights and innovations Dr Nath will bring to NCARD’s research. Please join us in welcoming him to the team.
