People

Chintan Kikani

Principal Investigator

Dr. Kikani is an assistant professor in the Department of Biology. He obtained his PhD from UT Health Science Center in San Antonio studying the role of metabolic signaling pathways in cancer and diabetes-related field. After receiving his PhD, he joined Dr. Jared Rutter's lab at the University of Utah School of Medicine/Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) to study how metabolic signaling controls cell behavior. During his postdoctoral work, he made a surprising observation that an important metabolic regulatory kinase, PASK is exclusively expressed in adult stem cells. Following this observation, Dr. Kikani established key roles of PASK in adult stem cells, and discovered a signaling pathway that connects nutrient stimulation to chromatin regulation in stem cells. Dr. Kikani's work was funded by the American Heart Association (AHA) and National Institute of Health (NIH). Dr. Kikani was promoted to research assistant professor position at the University of Utah where he was awarded extramural funding to continue his research studying the role of metabolic network in stem cell function.

Rajaian Pushpabai Rajesh

Postdoctoral Researcher

I am a Post Doctoral Scientist in Dr. Kikani’s lab. I am interested in chemical biology especially asking questions about how small peptide molecules interact with biological system in controlling very crucial biological processes. Currently working in the intramolecular interactions of different domains and their role in activation of Per-Arnt-Sim kinase (PASK) function.

I enjoy being with my family and observing amazing wonders of nature world.

Brian Kelly

PhD Candidate

I was born in Misawa, Japan to active duty Navy parents. I joined the Navy myself after high school and served for 6 years as a Nuclear Machinist Mate. After, I went to college and completed two bachelor’s degrees, one in Applied Mathematics and one in Biology. As a PhD student I joined Dr. Kikani’s lab because the focus of his research fascinates me, and I enjoy being a part of it. I appreciate being part of a team that is friendly and works well together, performing research that inspires me. I am currently researching on metabolic pathways in stem cells and how they play a role in cell fate decision-making. When I have spare time I enjoy camping, hiking, reading, and going to trivia.

Sajina Dhungel

PhD Candidate

I am from Nepal, a home country to Mt. Everest, where I received my undergraduate and master's degree in Microbiology from Tribhuvan University. I joined the Department of Biology of the University of Kentucky as a Ph.D. student in August 2021. Currently, I am working in Dr. Kikani's lab because I am particularly interested in learning and understanding the molecular pathways that drive stem cells' regeneration abilities. Besides science, I enjoy dancing, cooking, watching movies, spending time with my family and friends.

Sammi Pavlecic

Lab Technician

I am a graduate from the College of Wooster in Ohio majoring in Biology and minoring in French. I love animals and hope to go to Veterinary school in the future. Outside of the lab, I love traveling and staying active. In rainy days or cold weather you’ll often find me binge-watching the Marvel Cinematic universe or drawing. Currently, I am aiding in the lab via genotyping and maintaining mouse colonies.

Elizabeth McCauley

Lab Technician

I am from Lexington, Kentucky and I am pursuing a BS in Biology with a minor in Psychology at UK. I have plans to attend medical school and have always had a passion for science and medicine. I have enjoyed working in the lab because it has allowed me to explore the science behind stem cell differentiation. This area of study is particularly interesting because it holds potential for various medical advancements. Outside of the lab, I am a member and leader of Tri Delta sorority as well as the Lewis Honors College. I enjoy cooking, baking, wakeboarding at the lake, and spending time outdoors in my free time.

Lab Almuni

Chia-Hua Wu

Postdoctoral Researcher

I am a postdoc in Dr. Kikani’s lab. I am interested in studying the biochemical mechanisms of human diseases and finding potential treatment options for human disease. Her projects focus on studying the regulation of Per-Arnt-Sim kinase (PASK) function in mice. I enjoy hanging out with my family and likes to watch movies and go shopping.

Grace Bieghler

Undergraduate Student

I am from Westfield, IN and am at UK pursing a BS in Biology with a minor in Communications on a pre-medical track. Working in the lab has enriched my undergraduate experience by cultivating my passion for science and exposing me to the exciting world of stem cells. It is rewarding to be a part of research that has the potential to change someone's life one day. I have loved working in a collaborative environment and developing relationships within the lab. Outside of the lab, I am on the UK Equestrian Team, a member of the Phi Delta Epsilon academic fraternity and the Lewis Honors College, and I seek out ways to mentor other students through K Week orientation and Peer Mentor opportunities. I love college sports and spending any extra time at the barn with my horse, Canyon.

Graham Meek

Research Specialist

I am a recent graduate from the biology department at the University of Kentucky and a future medical student. I'm a lifetime guitar player and love to play music with my friends in my free time. My current work to study the regulation of PASK function in human cells.

Jania Bell

Undergraduate Student

An undergraduate FWS student obtaining a B.S. in Neuroscience and Psychology. Grew up in Kentucky and has plans to attend medical school. I enjoy cooking and baking and during the COVID-19 pandemic, my skills have drastically improved. I also like reading. The Program series is worth reading if you get the chance.

Currently, I am working on the biochemical mechanism of chemoresistance of human cancer cell lines

Alex Tran

Undergraduate Student

I was born and raised in Louisville, KY and currently attending the University of Kentucky as a Biology major with an Economics minor. I have always wanted to have the chance to conduct research during my time in college. Being a part of this lab has opened many doors for me in the scientific world. Some hobbies that define me are hiking, playing the guitar, traveling, and reading. Currently, I am developing new tools and reagents to study cellular signalling processes in stem cells.

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We are looking to build an exceptional team of graduate students, post-doctoral fellows and research assistants. Join our multidisciplinary research program.

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