Though Jyoti Bala Kaushal, PhD, grew up in an area where no one knew about a PhD or research, she is working to make an impact in research on a disease nearly everyone knows about: cancer.
She received the Excellence in Research Award at the postdoctoral education annual event at the end of October. The award recognizes UNMC postdoctoral scholars who have made outstanding contributions to their scientific field. It is one of two major awards offered by the Office of Postdoctoral Education and recognizes first author publications, fellowships and grants and external activities, such as volunteer work, that demonstrate commitment to science, scholarship or service.
Dr. Kaushal credits her success to her parents’ encouragement and support, as well as being inspired by the former president of India, A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, PhD.
"(Dr. Kalam’s) life story and thoughts are an inspiration for me," Dr. Kaushal said. "He achieved the top position in country. Two of his quotes always motivate me: 'If you want to shine like a sun, first burn like a sun,' and, 'You have to dream before your dreams can come true.'"
"Although science has made significant progress in cancer research, there are many unanswered questions and unsolved problems that need to be addressed," she said.
Dr. Kaushal’s research interests involve deciphering the potential molecular signaling mechanism associated with cancer progression and development, which can aid in the expansion of therapeutics for cancer patients. As a post-doctoral research fellow, she is exploring different altered molecular mechanisms that initiate and establish pancreatic and prostate cancer.
Dr. Kaushal expressed sincere gratitude to her mentoring team: Surinder Batra, PhD, chair of the UNMC Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and Satyanarayana Rachagani, PhD.
"I believe that my previous experience and recently acquired skills in molecular and cancer cell biology and immense support from my mentoring team will be an essential stepping-stone to establishing myself as an independent cancer researcher," Dr. Kaushal said.
Congratulations Dr.Jyoti.
Congrats jothi!