Author: [AUTHOR] Published on 10/1/2025 12:00:00 AM
Kunj Vyas, MS, Long Island University, Brooklyn, New York
Who has inspired you in your career?
The very beginning of my career journey owes everything to my mentor, professor, and advisor, Dr. David Taft. Without his constant guidance, I simply would not have known where to start. My interest in pharmacokinetic research was ignited by my research mentor, Dr. Sharareh Senemar. She was the first person to truly believe in my potential and patiently taught me the ropes of the field. Later at Takeda Pharmaceuticals, Dr. Matt Albertolle became an important mentor, offering life lessons that I carry with me to this day. I have been recently fortunate to encounter many supportive and inspiring individuals since moving to the USA. They have all helped me tremendously along the way.
Why did you choose to participate in the Career Connect Program?
A key motivating factor was the prospect of networking with professionals within the clinical pharmacology network. Establishing connections is a critical component of any successful career progression. The Career Connect program helped me to hone my communication skills as well as meet and learn from industry experts, which was particularly attractive. I viewed this as an invaluable chance to acquire knowledge from experienced individuals, gain insights into diverse career paths, and potentially facilitate future professional opportunities.
What has been the greatest challenge in your career?
My most substantial career challenge was the transition from undergraduate drug delivery research to the field of Pharmacokinetics/Pharmacodynamics (PK/PD). This shift was particularly demanding given my limited prior exposure to PK/PD until my arrival in the USA. This disciplinary change was further complicated by the concurrent need to adapt to different educational and professional environments in the United States. Navigating these simultaneous adjustments constituted the most significant hurdle in my professional journey.
How do you keep focused and motivated?
Maintaining focus and motivation in my work primarily focuses on two key strategies: establishing clear objectives and cultivating a sense of purpose. When I have well-defined goals, whether they are daily tasks or long-term aspirations, it provides a roadmap that helps me prioritize and directs my energy effectively. This clarity minimizes distractions and keeps me aligned with what needs to be accomplished. Beyond just knowing what to do, understanding why I am doing it is important for sustained motivation. Of course, when all else fails, I simply remind myself of my to-do list: “My brain has too many tabs open.” That usually provides the necessary jolt to close some of them and get back to work.
What was your childhood dream job?
My childhood dream was to become a pilot, soaring through the skies. That flight, however, landed me in the complex world of pharmacometrics. I suppose one could argue that I am still dealing with trajectories, albeit on a smaller scale. Though my focus shifted from altitude to drug concentrations, the pursuit of mastery and impact endures. At least both fields require a strong grasp of math, which I officially lack.
Kunj has been a member of ASCPT since 2024.
