Today we have the great pleasure of knowing better Namah, one of the great RBP-ReguNet doctoral candidates, currently completing her PhD at the  MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, under Professor Alfredo Castello.

Can you tell us a bit about your academic and professional background?

Currently, I am a Marie Sklodowska-Curie Early-Stage Researcher at University of Glasgow, where I focus on RNA biology and viral regulation. My professional journey spans bioinformatics, virology, and genetic diagnostics. I hold a Master’s in Genetic engineering and a bachelor’s in biotechnology.

Previously, I worked as a Field Genetic Specialist at PerkinElmer Genomics, leading awareness, and diagnostic efforts for rare genetic disorders across Western India. I also interned at Tioga Research in San Diego, contributing to market research and product development for preservative-free topical formulations.

What motivated you to join this MSCA-DN project?

My motivation to join the MSCA-DN RBP-ReguNet project stemmed from a deep interest in RNA biology and its intersection with virology. The opportunity to work with leading scientists in a collaborative European network, while receiving structured training and career development, made it an ideal environment to grow as a researcher and contribute meaningfully to the field. Overall, the MSCA-DN project offered the ideal blend of scientific challenge, professional development, and collaborative spirit that I was seeking in a PhD program.

What specific research or training are you focusing on within this project?

My research is all about understanding how RNA-binding proteins and their regulatory RNAs affect viral replication. It’s hands-on and challenging, but also exciting. On the training side, I’m focusing on a lot of technical skills—cloning, transfection, RNA/protein analysis, and working with inducible systems. But what’s making a big difference is the soft skills I’m learning along the way, like managing projects and communicating my science clearly. It’s a steep learning curve, but I’m really enjoying the process.

How do you think this project will contribute to your career development?

Being part of this project has helped me grow a lot—not just as a scientist but also in terms of figuring out what I want from my career. I wasn’t sure about doing a postdoc before, but now I feel much more confident about it. I’ve learned how I work best, what kind of science really excites me, and how to think critically and independently. It’s given me the skills to not only choose the right postdoc but also to be good at it. So, in that sense, it’s been a really important step in shaping my future.

What have been some of the most rewarding experiences in your research so far?

 One of the most rewarding parts has been seeing my ideas come to life in the lab—especially when experiments work after weeks of troubleshooting! Winning the Journal of Virology Talk Prize was also a proud moment—it was great to see my work appreciated by the community.

But beyond the milestones, what’s been most fulfilling is how much I’ve grown through the process. It’s helped me see the kind of scientist I want to become and made me genuinely excited about continuing research.

Can you describe any challenges you have faced during your time in the project and how you overcame them?

 Starting the project was challenging I had little background in the topic and was adjusting to a new country and lab environment. It took time to adjust—to the lab, the culture, and the pace of things. What helped was staying curious, asking for support, and building connections, which gave me a sense of belonging and made the day-to-day feel less overwhelming.

Like any research, there were setbacks, but I’ve learned to take those in stride. Each of them has taught me something and made me confident in navigating the ups and downs of research.

What skills or knowledge do you hope to gain by the end of this fellowship?

By the end of this fellowship, I hope to have a solid grasp of how RNA-binding proteins and regulatory RNAs shape viral infections. I want to be able to design and lead experiments with confidence and interpret complex data in a meaningful way. Beyond the science, I also want to become a better communicator and collaborator. I’d like to be someone who can explain their work clearly, mentor others effectively, and contribute to a team with both ideas and support.

How do you see the impact of your research on the wider community or field?

 My research explores how p62 is regulated by RNA during Zika virus infection—a process that’s not well understood. Since p62 is crucial for autophagy and stress responses, this work could reveal new insights into host-virus interactions and contribute to identifying therapeutic targets. It also adds to the growing field of riboregulation, which has exciting potential in virology and immunology.

On a personal level, it’s exciting to know that even small discoveries could eventually feed into understanding and combating viral infections. That sense of contributing to something larger keeps me motivated.

Can you share a memorable moment or achievement from your work in this project?

 One of the most memorable moments was discovering that Zika virus RNA binds to p62—a connection that hadn’t been described before. Realizing I was the first to observe this interaction was incredibly rewarding. It felt like all the effort, the failed experiments, and the long hours had led to something truly novel.

Another highlight that really stands out was winning the Journal of Virology Talk Prize at the Microbiology Society Post-Graduate Virologists’ Network Meeting. It was the first time I presented my work to a broader audience and getting that kind of recognition felt gratifying. Moments like these remind me why I love doing research.

What advice would you give to future fellows or researchers entering this field?

 Don’t worry if things feel overwhelming at first—that’s completely normal. You don’t need to know everything from day one. Be open to learning, ask questions, and give yourself time to settle in. Building relationships with people around you—both in and outside the lab—can make a huge difference.

Embrace the ups and downs of research, experiments will fail, ideas will shift, and that’s all part of the process. Stay curious, be patient, and most importantly, enjoy the journey—it’s a unique chance to explore and shape your path as a scientist.

Where are you from? Since these are mobility grants, are you missing your place? Family, friends, city…

 I’m originally from India, and yes—being away from home has been one of the more emotional parts of this journey. I miss my family, friends, and the comfort of familiar routines. Moving abroad was a big shift, not just professionally but personally. It took time to adjust to a new culture, the weather, even the way research was done and being away from my support system.

And what about your new place? What are you liking the most/the least?

 What I’ve enjoyed most is the freedom to shape my own space and lifestyle—it’s empowering to make choices that reflect who I am. I also love that this fellowship allows me to travel and explore new places—it’s one of the most exciting parts of the experience.

Workwise, I’ve been lucky to have supportive colleagues, which has made settling in much easier and helped ease the feeling of being away from home. On the flip side, adjusting to a new country and system wasn’t easy at first—figuring out housing, paperwork, and just how things work took time. But now that I’ve found my rhythm, I’m really enjoying the experience.

What are your hobbies or interests outside of your research work?

Outside of research, I enjoy a mix of creative, active, and nature-based activities. Painting helps me relax and express myself, while reading allows me to explore new ideas or escape into stories. Staying active is important to me, so I make time for regular exercise and fitness, which helps me stay focused and energized. I love hiking and travelling, I enjoy discovering new cultures and landscapes. I also have a growing collection of plants at home—caring for them has become a small but meaningful part of my daily routine.

Can you share a fun fact about yourself that people might not know?

 A fun fact about me is that I’ve trained in mixed martial arts just for fun—it’s something I got into out of curiosity, and I really enjoyed the challenge and discipline it brings. Another thing people might not know is that I’m a passionate cook. I love experimenting in the kitchen and find cooking to be both creative and therapeutic.

What do you enjoy most about the city or country you are currently living in?

 What I enjoy most about living in Glasgow—and Scotland in general—is how calm and spacious it feels compared to other big cities. It’s not overly crowded, which makes day-to-day life more relaxed. I also love how close the city is to nature—there are so many hills and lochs nearby that are perfect for hiking or just getting away for a bit. I also love how friendly and laid-back people are here, which makes it feel welcoming. And I have to say, the whisky here is incredible—it’s one of my favourite drinks, so being in the heart of whisky country is a bonus!

Who has been the most influential person in your life, and why?

 It’s tough to choose just one person, as I’ve learned something valuable from many people in my life. But if I had to highlight a few, my father—has taught me perseverance—to never give up without a fight. My mother showed me how to be soft but firm, and to stand strong in my decisions. My partner helped me develop patience and self-acceptance especially during difficult times. Professionally, my PI has been a key influence, teaching me how to navigate challenges with a solution-focused mindset. Each of them has shaped me in meaningful ways.

How do you balance your work and personal life?

 Balancing work and personal life during a PhD can be challenging, but I try to be intentional about it. I set boundaries around work hours to make space for activities I enjoy—like painting, working out, hiking, and cooking. Fitness helps me stay focused, and creative or nature-based activities help me unwind. I’ve also learned to listen to myself and take breaks when needed, which keeps me motivated and prevents burnout.

What is one thing you have learned about yourself during your fellowship?

 During my fellowship, I’ve discovered that I’m more resilient than I ever gave myself credit for. There were moments when deadlines, failed experiments, and stress felt overwhelming. One weekend, I took a long hike in the Highlands to clear my head, and it shifted my perspective. I realised that giving myself space to reset is essential—not just helpful. It taught me that I can handle pressure, but I also need to protect my mental well-being to stay focused and do my best work.