1. What is your current role at CMRI?
I am a post doctoral research scholar in Dr. Vivekanand Yadav’s lab at CMRI. My work focuses on developing novel immunotherapy approaches for pediatric high‑grade gliomas, including diffuse midline and hemispheric gliomas. I use a combination of molecular biology, cell‑based assays and preclinical models to study tumor biology and identify new therapeutic vulnerabilities.
A major part of my research involves engineering and evaluating CAR-T cell therapies as well as exploring small‑molecule targets, such as USP1, to enhance treatment effectiveness and overcome immunosuppression in the tumor microenvironment. I also collaborate closely with our team to perform in vivo experiments, analyze treatment responses and help translate our findings toward future clinical applications.
2. What drew you to a career at CMRI?
I have always been driven by the desire to contribute to discoveries that make a meaningful difference in children’s lives, especially for diseases where treatment options are still limited. My interest in research, particularly cancer immunotherapy, grew over years of working with molecular and cell-based models and seeing how scientific innovations can translate into real hope for patients.
I was drawn to CMRI because of its strong commitment to translational research and its collaborative environment that brings together scientists, clinicians and trainees with a shared mission of improving pediatric health. The opportunity to work in Dr. Yadav’s lab was especially influential. His vision for advancing immunotherapy for pediatric brain tumors, combined with his mentorship and support, played a key role in my decision to stay at CMRI.
Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to learn from inspiring mentors, including Dr. Yadav, and colleagues who continuously challenge and encourage me. Being a part of CMRI has allowed me to contribute to impactful projects while growing as a scientist in an environment that values innovation, teamwork and the pursuit of better treatments for children.
3. What are your research/career goals?
My immediate research goal is to deepen our understanding of the mechanisms that drive pediatric high-grade gliomas and to help develop more effective immunotherapy-based treatments for these tumors. I aim to continue advancing our CAR-T cell platforms and identifying additional molecular targets to improve therapeutic durability and overcome resistance.
In the long term, I hope to establish myself as an independent scientist leading a research program. I am committed to translating laboratory discoveries into therapies that can move toward clinical application, ultimately improving outcomes and quality of life for children facing these devastating cancers.
Beyond research, my career goals include mentoring young scientists and contributing to a collaborative, supportive scientific community. I am passionate about creating an environment where trainees feel encouraged to ask challenging questions, innovate and pursue meaningful scientific careers.
4. What is your favorite thing about working at CMRI?
My favorite part of working at CMRI is the highly collaborative and supportive environment. Every day, I have the opportunity to work alongside scientists, clinicians and staff who are deeply committed to improving the lives of children through research. The sense of shared purpose, combined with access to state-of-the-art facilities and innovative resources, creates an inspiring atmosphere that motivates me to push my work forward.
I also truly enjoy the culture of mentorship and teamwork within our institute. Being able to learn from experienced colleagues, contribute to meaningful projects and collaborate across disciplines has strengthened my growth as a scientist and made my work here especially rewarding.
5. What is on your bucket list?
- See the northern lights — experiencing the aurora borealis in places like Iceland or Norway has always been a dream of mine.
- Go skydiving — it is one of the most adventurous experiences I want to try at least once in my life.
- Travel to Japan during cherry blossom season.
- Visit U.S. national parks.
- Learn a dance form.