Meet Srikanth Dutt
who is now completing his PhD studies in Neuroscience at BIU’s Azrieli Faculty of Medicine in the Galilee.
Meet Srikanth Dutt, 29, from Srikakulam, a small town in southern India, who is now completing his PhD studies in Neuroscience at BIU’s Azrieli Faculty of Medicine in the Galilee. His research, under the guidance of Dr. Hava Gil-Henn and Dr. Evan Elliot, focuses on deciphering the mechanism of learning, memory and anxiety, and developing novel therapeutic methods that may ultimately be used to treat Alzheimer’s disease. Srikanth has already co-authored several research articles in highly reputed journals about the role of Pyk2, a protein tyrosine kinase in brain and behavior, and it’s potential to treat Alzheimer’s disease.
As the son of a headmistress who was a single parent, Srikanth and his brother were raised with their grandparents’ help. Since childhood, he says, he has been taught that “There are two educations one teaches us how to make a living and the other how to live. So with these words always in mind, I try to learn everything I can and respect every being around me.” Srikanth, who obtained an MSc degree from India’s GITAM University before attending the Azrieli Faculty of Medicine in Safed, is now seeking a postdoctoral position in Europe or the US.
Why I chose to study this area:
I have always been interested in studying brain functions and how communication occurs among different cells. When I was first applying for PhD programs, I spoke to Dr. Hava Gil-Henn, who explained the intricate details of the project and assured me that she would be guiding me and teaching me all the important techniques. She was very supportive and encouraged me to join her Laboratory of Cell Migration and Invasion at the Azrieli Faculty of Medicine.
What I enjoy most at BIU’s Azrieli Faculty of Medicine:
The scientific creativity and capabilities, the accessibility of the professors, the friendliness and willingness to help, and the scenic nature of the campus in Safed.
Future Plans:
I am looking for a post-doctoral position in the field of cellular and molecular neuroscience, in either the US or in Europe and after that, I would like to establish a lab in India to advance understanding in this area.
My favorite corner on campus:
Our lab – especially with the beautiful scenic view of the Sea of Galilee from the lab window.
What I will take with me from my Bar-Ilan studies:
A huge experience of how to address a scientific question and different ways of approaching and solving the scientific problem, along with loads of lifetime friends.
For more on the Azrieli Faculty of Medicine: https://medicine.biu.ac.il/en