Describe your background
I completed my undergraduate degree in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Mumbai, India, and went on to work for three years at a product-based startup. This experience strengthened my skills and inspired me to pursue higher education and follow my passion for research. I joined UCSD with no prior wet lab experience and had the opportunity to rotate in the Cheresh Lab in Winter 2024, later completing my thesis under the mentorship of Dr. Vira Kravets. These experiences not only enhanced my professional growth but also shaped me personally, allowing me to develop resilience, curiosity, and confidence as a researcher. Looking back, I feel deeply grateful for every opportunity that has contributed to my journey.
Describe your area of research and/or your area of specialty
My area of research focuses on understanding the mechanisms underlying Type 2 Diabetes. At the Kravets Lab, I utilized advanced confocal microscopy techniques, including calcium imaging to study β-cell functional dynamics and fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) to characterize cellular metabolism. This work allowed me to investigate how calcium signaling and metabolic shifts contribute to β-cell heterogeneity and dysfunction in the diabetic state.
Describe your involvement within the department and UC San Diego (were/are you involved in student orgs, recreation, certificate programs, internships, etc. outside of curricular requirements?)
Student Ambassador, 29th Annual Bioengineering Breakfast with Industry (BWI 2023); Mentor, GradWIC and BEGS Mentorship Programs; Student Ambassador, Networking Fair 2025
What has been your favorite part about your graduate experience in the program?
My favorite part of the graduate experience has been the opportunity to gain both wet lab and computational skills while growing as a researcher. Equally meaningful has been meeting amazing people and building friendships that have truly become like family during my time in the program.
Any thoughts or advice you'd like to share with prospective graduate students?
My advice to prospective graduate students is to embrace every opportunity to learn, both inside and outside the lab. Graduate school can be challenging, but perseverance and curiosity go a long way. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, seek mentorship, and lean on your peers for support, some of them may become lifelong friends. Most importantly, trust the process and allow yourself to grow personally as well as professionally.
If you are an Alumni from our program, what is your current role, or what are your career prospects and plans for the future?
Research Associate III, Gladstone Institutes, San Francisco, CA