Project: 

Modeling Autoimmune Pathogenesis and Beta Cell Destruction by T1D Immune Systems

►Where are you from originally, and where did you go to school?

I am from Tbilisi, Georgia. I studied Medicine at Tbilisi State Medical University and in 2008 I was awarded with medical degree (MD). In the same year I decided to pursue top master program in Medical Sciences at the University of Groningen, in the Netherlands. In 2010 I received title of Master of Sciences with cum laude and I obtained funding to start with a PhD program at the Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, at the University Medical Center Groningen. I defended PhD thesis in January 2016 and shortly after I started my postdoctoral training at Columbia University.

►What is your current position?

Currently I am a postdoctoral research scientist in the lab of Dr. Remi Creusot at Columbia University Medical Center

►Why did you decide to become a researcher?

I love to learn. When I was little I was constantly asking questions and I was told I was too curious for my age. I wanted to become a doctor and help improve lives of others until I realize there is so much I do not understand and wish to learn, think of a solution to the problems for patients. As a medical student I had limited access to the newest literature published in international magazines back in Georgia, which made me more eager to reach out to researchers and other peers inside and outside my country. I am glad I had an opportunity to grow as a scientist over time and satisfy my thrill for discoveries.

►What is the “Big Picture” of what you study?

I am trying to address a gap in knowledge on pathogenesis of Type 1 Diabetes

►What is your favorite aspect of your research?

My favorite aspect of research is testing new hypothesis and turning experiments into learning experiences

► What do you hope to achieve with your research?

I hope to achieve a good understanding of disease development to design effective therapeutic approaches

►What groups are you involved in? 

Department of Medicine, Columbia Center for Translational Immunology and Naomi Berrie Diabetes Center, Columbia University in the city of New York