Why did you choose graduate school at IU Indianapolis?
I chose IU Indianapolis for its strong School of Medicine, flexible program structure, and opportunities such as lab rotations that help students identify the right research fit. I was also encouraged by the positive experiences shared by people I know who have been part of the program. Additionally, the relatively affordable cost of living in Indianapolis makes it a practical and supportive place to pursue graduate studies.
What has been your favorite academic accomplishment since you’ve been here?
One of my most meaningful academic accomplishments has been passing my qualification exam, a key milestone in my PhD that significantly strengthened my confidence as a researcher. In my mentor Dr. Tao (Tara) Lu’s lab, I have also had the opportunity to further develop my research skills and independence. For example, during my third year, I published three first-author review papers and contributed to three research articles. These achievements reflect my growth in scientific writing, critical thinking, and overall research productivity. I feel encouraged and inspired by these experiences as I continue to grow in my training.
What do you enjoy most about life in Indianapolis?
I really enjoy living in Indianapolis because it’s affordable and comfortable as a student, but still well-connected. It’s easy to travel to bigger cities like Chicago or even New York City, so I can explore more without spending too much on daily living.
Please provide some details about your work/research as a graduate student and/or any activities you are involved in.
My research focuses on developing novel therapeutic strategies for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). In particular, I study CM01 NC, a nanocrystal formulation of our patented PRMT5 inhibitor CM01, designed to enhance drug delivery, bioavailability, and therapeutic efficacy. I evaluate its performance using both in vitro and in vivo models, with the goal of advancing more effective treatments for this aggressive cancer. Prior to my PhD, I worked as a research intern at IU School of Medicine in Indianapolis, where I gained hands-on experience with techniques such as microtomy and paraffin sectioning, H&E staining, and immunofluorescence imaging.