Author: [AUTHOR] Published on 6/1/2025 12:00:00 AM
Katherine Theken, PharmD, PhD, Research Associate, University of Pennsylvania, PA
What does being the 2025 Darrell Abernethy Early Stage Investigator Award Recipient mean to you?
I am very honored to receive this award from ASCPT. Research is often a challenging journey, and this recognition provides encouragement to persevere. It motivates me to continue pursuing advancements in clinical pharmacology and to contribute meaningfully to improving patient care throughout my research career.
Who has inspired you in your career?
I have had wonderful research mentors in my career so far! Sam Poloyac was my research mentor during pharmacy school, who introduced me to lab work and provided support and advice as I began my scientific training. Dr. Craig Lee served as my PhD advisor; he taught me the fundamentals of research and the importance of being meticulous in performing experiments and analyzing results. My postdoc advisor, Garret FitzGerald, taught me the importance of thinking bigger. As a new faculty member, my colleague Elliot Hersh taught me how to do clinical trials in pain and navigate the challenges of being a new faculty member. They have all helped guide the direction of my career and enabled me to become the scientist I am today.
When you are not working, how do you spend your free time?
I love to read pretty much any type of book. I also enjoy cooking, baking, knitting, and hanging out with my husband, Andrew. I dabble in running, but I am not sure if that will stick.
What was your childhood dream job?
I have been interested in a career in science since I was 7 to 8 years old. I initially wanted to be an astronomer but changed my mind to genetic engineering once I learned about genetics in sixth grade. I have been focused on a career in biomedical research ever since.
Dr. Theken has been a member of ASCPT since 2007.
