Rabia Khan
-Scholar-
Cohort: 2020-2021
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Bryce Chackerian
Department: Molecular Genetics and Microbiology
Home Institution: University of New Mexico
Research Interests: Drug Design
Scholar Description
I was born in Pakistan, raised in New Mexico I moved here when I was 12. I graduated with my BS in Biochemistry with a minor in Chemistry and Psychology in May of 2019. Initially interested in going to medical school, my route changed as I began my research as a sophomore at UNM in the Museum of Southwestern Biology. I give all the credit to Dr. Joseph Cook and Dr. Jon Dunnum for fueling my interest towards research. While working at the Museum I began to explore my options in the drug design field. As I realized innovation sparked my interest far more than traditional research. I volunteered at UNM's Chemical engineering lab that exposed me to drug delivery from here on onwards I decided to become a drug design scientist. I reached out to PREP as their program is known to develop underrepresented minority groups. My first year at PREP was a success with Dr. Sklar's lab I learned a handful of techniques and robotic skills. During my time as a second-year PREP scholar, I will be designing a special vaccination system under the mentorship of Dr. Bryce Chackerian. When I am not in the lab, I play volleyball, hike, participate in competitive rock climbing and if the season is up for it go skiing.