Author: [AUTHOR] Published on 4/1/2026 12:00:00 AM
Aarzoo Thakur, PhD, Washington State University, Spokane, Washington
What does being a 2025 Presidential Trainee and the 2025 David Goldstein Award recipient mean to you?
Being a 2025 Presidential Trainee and the David Goldstein award recipient was an incredibly humbling and meaningful milestone in my career. It was an invaluable opportunity to present my work during the Annual Meeting and allowed me to engage with leading scientists, receive critical feedback, and gain broader visibility for my research. Most importantly, these awards deepened my resolve to pursue impactful, mechanism-driven science that bridges laboratory discoveries with clinical application. I view these recognitions as both an honor and a responsibility to continue contributing thoughtfully and collaboratively to the scientific community.
What was your favorite part of attending the Annual Meeting?
As a first-time attendee, I thoroughly enjoyed the vibrant and intellectually stimulating environment of the ASCPT Annual Meeting. Beyond attending the well-curated, cutting-edge scientific sessions and receiving invaluable feedback on my poster, one of the most memorable aspects for me was attending the ASCPT Community Face-Off session. This session was not only engaging but also incredibly informative. It introduced me to the diverse range of ASCPT communities that align closely with my research interests. It also helped me better understand where I can contribute and grow within the Society.
Who has inspired you in your career?
Since childhood, I have been deeply inspired by the scientific curiosity and perseverance of Marie Curie and Albert Einstein. Their relentless pursuit of knowledge, unshakable work ethic, and refusal to give up in the face of challenges left a lasting impression on me. What resonates most is their fearless commitment to asking bold questions and challenging established norms, an approach that continues to guide my own scientific journey. Their legacy reminds me that curiosity, resilience, and passion are essential ingredients for impactful discoveries.
What has been the greatest challenge in your career?
The greatest challenge in my career has been navigating periods of uncertainty and self-doubt during my PhD journey. Like many early-career scientists, I encountered setbacks, whether due to failed experiments, delays in progress, or moments where I questioned the impact of my work. However, these experiences taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of seeking support. Overcoming these hurdles not only strengthened my scientific skills but also shaped my identity as an independent researcher.
Dr. Thakur has been a member of ASCPT since 2023.
