PhD student at Institute for Molecular Bioscience,Australia
Himani Shah is a doctoral candidate in the Institute for Molecular Bioscience (IMB) at The University of Queensland (UQ), Australia, with expertise in cancer research, molecular biology, and biotechnology. She is investigating the cellular mechanisms of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) and their role in cancer progression. Her academic journey has been marked by outstanding performance, earning top grades and recognition. Her research has significant clinical implications for cancer therapy, especially women’s cancers.
Publication Profile
Google Scholar
Education 🎓
- Doctor of Philosophy (2021-Present), IMB, UQ, Australia (Supervisors: Prof. David Fairlie & Dr. Junxian Lim). Thesis submission by November 2024.
- Master of Biotechnology Research Extensive (2019-2020), SCMB, UQ, Australia, GPA 6.56/7.0 (Supervisors: Dr. Roberta Mazzieri, Prof. David Fairlie, Dr. Junxian Lim).
- Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology (2015-2018), Mithibai College, University of Mumbai, India, GPA 7.0/7.0.
Professional Experience 💼
Himani has gained extensive experience in both research and teaching roles. She is currently a casual academic staff member at SCMB, UQ, tutoring in molecular biology, microbiology, genetics, and biochemistry. Additionally, she has worked as a research tutor at TRI, mentoring high school students in molecular biology techniques. Her practical experience includes extensive laboratory management, training, and mentoring junior researchers.
Research Interests 🔬
Himani’s primary research interests focus on the role of GPCRs in cancer biology. She is investigating how protease-activated receptors, particularly PAR2, influence cancer cell apoptosis and could be leveraged as therapeutic targets, especially in women’s cancers. Her past research projects have also included the role of C3aR in kidney cancer and the characterization of a preclinical metastatic breast cancer model.
Awards and Honors 🏆
- 2024: HDR IMB Completion Award, Best Poster Presentation at CCDD Symposium.
- 2023: 3MT IMB Heats – People’s Choice Winner.
- 2021: SPARQ-ed Research Immersion Scholarship, TRI; Research Training Program UQ Graduate School Scholarship.
- 2020: Dean’s Commendation for Academic Excellence, UQ.
Achievements 🌟
Himani has achieved success in both research and community engagement. She was awarded People’s Choice at the Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition at UQ in 2023. Additionally, her participation in various conferences and symposia, both as an oral and poster presenter, highlights her commitment to advancing scientific knowledge.
Upcoming Projects 🚀
Himani’s upcoming work focuses on investigating new therapeutic avenues for women’s cancers, particularly through the modulation of protease-activated receptors. She will also be presenting her research findings at various conferences in 2024, including the European Association for Cancer Research Congress in Rotterdam.
Publication📚
- Shah, H., Hill, T. A., Lim, J., & Fairlie, D. P. (2023). Protease-activated receptor 2 attenuates doxorubicin-induced apoptosis in colon cancer cells. Journal of Cell Communication and Signaling, 17, 1293-1307.
- Shah, H., Fairlie, D. P., & Lim, J. (2024). Protease-activated receptor 2: A promising therapeutic target for women’s cancers. Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics. DOI: 10.1124/jpet.124.002176. Special edition: Breaking barriers in Women’s Cancer Treatment: Innovative Approaches and Experimental Therapeutics.