Instructor
Department of Microbial Pathogens and Immunity, Rush Medical College
Role: Researcher and Faculty
Joined Rush in 2016
I am an Instructor in the Department of Microbial Pathogens and Immunity, having joined Rush in January of 2016. I trained as a microbiologist, and I specialize in infectious diseases. My research aims to discover how the gut microbiome influences the development and function of immune cells and the nervous system in relation to various infectious diseases.
I love to be challenged and to learn new things every day. Immunologic and neurologic imbalances underlie many diseases. I find it fascinating that the human body represents a scaffold upon which multitudes of commensal species build residence, creating a diverse ecosystem. Mechanisms that mediate the interdependent and complex interactions between the microbiome and animals, as well as their influences on human health, represent an exciting frontier of science and medicine. The fast pace and unpredictability of scientific research keeps me excited and motivated. My resilience has kept me coming back for more.
What I most appreciate about Rush is the opportunities they extend to junior faculty members. I have had the chance to work in collaboration with many clinicians and researchers on multidisciplinary projects, which is not only exciting but has also helped me to come out from my bubble and to establish myself as a multidisciplinary researcher.
Rush provides an excellent networking and mentoring environment in order to foster career growth and opportunities for junior faculties. Without Rush’s mentoring and sponsorship program, I would not, over the last couple of years, have gained the confidence that I needed to make the most of the opportunities that have come my way.
Be yourself. Cultivate your passion for what you love, and success will come. Don’t shy away from seeking guidance and advice from your superiors.
In addition to science, I am passionate about dance. I am trained as an Indian classical dancer, and I spend time practicing this type of dance whenever I can. I also love to cook, read autobiographies, and take long walks.