Author: [AUTHOR] Published on 10/1/2026 12:00:00 AM
Tianran Hao, MSc, Graduate Student, Washington State University, Spokane, Washington, USA
What does being a 2026 Presidential Trainee mean to you?
Being named an ASCPT 2026 Presidential Trainee Recipient is both an honor and a meaningful encouragement at this stage of my career. To me, it reflects not only the work I have done so far, but also the mentorship, support, and collaboration that have shaped my growth. It motivates me to continue doing research that is rigorous and meaningful for patients and the future of clinical pharmacology.
Who has inspired you in your career?
It is difficult to name just one person because I have been fortunate to be inspired by several people at different stages of my training. My PhD advisor, Dr. Mary Paine, has had a major influence on how I approach clinical research and has consistently encouraged me to be detail-oriented. My master's advisor, Dr. Jashvant Unadkat, has inspired me to ask thoughtful questions and communicate science effectively. Washington State University departmental alumna and 2025 David Goldstein Award recipient Dr. Aarzoo Thakur has also inspired me by her hard work and genuine approach to both science and life. Together, they have shaped the kind of scientist and colleague I hope to become.
Why did you submit your abstract for presentation at the ASCPT 2026 Annual Meeting?
I submitted my abstract because kratom has received growing public and scientific attention as a potential alternative to traditional opioids, yet there is still limited human data on its safety, especially when it is used with prescription opioids. Our study addresses an important clinical pharmacology question by evaluating how kratom affects the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of oxycodone in humans, and the findings suggest clinically meaningful safety implications. ASCPT felt like the right place to share this work because it brings together researchers focused on translational and clinical pharmacology, drug interactions, and medication safety. I wanted to contribute to that discussion and learn from others working to improve therapeutic decision-making.
When you are not working, how do you spend your free time?
Outside of work, I love going to concerts, enjoying music, and reading, especially biographies. I am always drawn to stories about people's journeys, the challenges they overcame, and what shaped them along the way. It is a way for me to recharge while also staying inspired and connected to the human side of everything that we do.
Tianran has been a member of ASCPT since 2023.
