Nish Sitapara

I'm a software engineer with a versatile skill set in both backend and frontend development, specializing in modern web technologies like Next.js, React, Django, and GraphQL. I have experience architecting scalable applications, designing microservices, and integrating cloud platforms like AWS and GCP for seamless CI/CD pipelines. I bring strong collaboration skills, working closely with stakeholders to align software solutions with business objectives. With a background in computer science, biotechnology and data analytics, I excel in building data-driven applications that streamline processes, enhance user experience, and drive operational efficiency.

Experience

Software Engineer

Genentech | May 2022 - Present

Led backend development for a web application using Next.js, React, HTML/CSS, TypeScript/JavaScript that assists potency assay development. The application streamlines data integration, analysis, and provides experimental recommendations for scientists and engineers.
Architected and implemented the backend using Django and GraphQL with PostgreSQL for data storage, Docker for containerization, Sentry.io for error monitoring, and GitHub Actions for CI/CD on AWS.
Designed and implemented core functionalities using Next.js, Django, GraphQL, and PostgreSQL for a cross-departmental laboratory sample testing web application. Features included multi-assay management, external sample validation, automated notifications, test scheduling, and data export capabilities. Deployed the application with Docker for containerization, Sentry.io for error monitoring, and GitHub Actions for a CI/CD pipeline on GCP.
Developed and led a team of 3 engineers in designing, implementing, and deploying microservices that integrated internal systems with our ELN platform. This centralization enhanced project tracking, collaboration, and data sharing capabilities for scientists and engineers. Microservices built using Python, REST API, GitHub Actions, GCP, and AWS.
Collaborated closely with business stakeholders throughout all stages of the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) to gather requirements, design, and develop software systems that aligns with business objectives.

Associate Scientist

Genentech | Sep 2020 to May 2022

Engineered an intelligent monitoring system using Python and OpenCV that detects instrument errors and automatically notifies users through Webhooks to gChat.
Led and managed an ELN user support group of 15+ members, providing comprehensive technical assistance to over 150 department-wide users.
Designed, wrote and executed automation scripts for high-throughput screenings utilizing robotics and liquid handlers to generate critical early-stage process development data for novel molecules.

Process Engineer

Sangamo Therapeutics | Oct 2017 to Sep 2020

Developed an automated data processing system using Python (Pandas, Plotly, and SQLite) to extracts and analyzes instrument data, generates detailed reports, and maintains a centralized database with automated email distribution capabilities.
Led the design and programming of purification instruments (AKTA Pure 25/150, Explorer, Ready) to optimize process efficiency.
Played a key role in evaluating and implementing Electronic Laboratory Notebook (ELN) and Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) solutions.
Drove team growth by actively participating in hiring processes and providing training and mentorship to junior scientists and engineers.

Scientific Researcher

Genentech (Contract) | Oct 2016 to Sep 2017

Developed an advanced web crawler using Selenium with Python to automate metadata and file extraction from the KEGG database, streamlining internal standards sourcing for molecule library development and enhancing data mining capabilities.