NDSU graduate 学生 can work on world-class research projects with some of the top scientists in their field. These opportunities help 学生 challenge themselves as researchers, find their career passion 和 grow as leaders. And they are guided by knowledgeable faculty who are invested in student success.
Swetha Thiyagarajan, a 博士 student in pharmaceutical sciences, is an example of an NDSU graduate student transformed by a research experience. Thiyagarajan has worked in the lab of Stefan Vetter, assistant professor of pharmaceutical sciences, 自2016年以来. She studies the activation of the receptor for advanced glycation endproducts, 或愤怒, which is closely linked to several chronic diseases, including cancer.
The research could help produce targeted drug treatments that can be used to treat a variety of cancers.
Thiyagarajan said working closely with Vetter has helped her become an independent, confident scientist 和 leader in the lab. It’s also taught her how to deal with the ups-和-downs of long-term research that can take years to advance.
“Dr. Vetter is always approachable 和 he helps the 学生 in his lab think independently 和 grow as scientists,” Thiyagarajan said. “He connects with each of his 学生 和 helps us improve every day.”
Along with world-class research, Thiyagarajan has learned valuable communication 和 interpersonal skills in Vetter’s lab. She has presented at the NDSU graduate student council, helped teach fellow 学生 和 worked on a team with Pharm.D. 学生.
“As advisers, we want 学生 to be happy 和 to do great research,” Vetter said. “Students should always feel comfortable about coming to the lab or my office. Students should feel empowered to open my office door 和 talk to me at any time.”
Thiyagarajan is from India. She hopes to work as a post博士 researcher or work in the science industry after graduation.
