Graduate Program: Free Radical and Radiation Biology

Undergraduate Institution:  Vellore Institute of Technology, India

Master’s Institution: University of Minnesota, USA

Hometown/Country:  Kolkatta, India

How did you hear about our program? Professors from my Master’s institution

What attracted you to the University of Iowa and why did you choose to pursue a graduate degree with the Free Radical and Radiation Biology Program?

This program is unique because it is the only one in the world. The research in this program was an extension of what I had been working on in my Masters. The program is set in a clinical department, so the research is very translational. All the faculty, staff and students in the program are supportive of each other and help the students be successful in the future. 

What type of research are you performing?

I work on a project that seeks to understand the role of Vitamin C (or pharmacological ascorbate) as a therapeutic in lung cancer. 

What is your favorite part about being a graduate student?

I really enjoy doing bench work in the lab and having long discussions about science with students, faculty, and staff. I also enjoy working on collaboration projects and working with scientists from fields different than mine. 

What are your favorite hobbies/activities outside of research?

I enjoy anything outdoors – hiking, camping, kayaking. I also love painting, traveling to new places and trying new cuisines.