Graduate Student Interview: Archana Hari (Lobo Lab)

Ajeetha Arudchandran

Dr. Feeser

BIOL 141H

14 October 2021

Graduate Student Interview Article

Bioinformatics is a growing and interdisciplinary STEM field that combines biology, math, and computer science. It is a unique branch of science where algorithms and software tools are utilized to aid in various scientific discoveries. Archana Hari, a bioinformatics Ph.D. student, has been utilizing bioinformatics approaches in the Lobo lab at UMBC.

As an undergraduate student in India, Hari majored in bioinformatics due to her curiosity about how computers can contribute to scientific research. However, sometimes she felt that she was not doing well in her computer programming classes. But an important piece of advice Hari shared was, “if you find yourself not doing particularly well in any of the courses that seem to be important for your research, don't let that stop you,” as she continued to discuss how she is currently applying her knowledge about computer science well in her lab. After her undergraduate schooling years, Hari came to Georgetown University in Washington D.C. to pursue her master’s degree in systems medicine. Around this time, she became interested in using specific genomic patient data and using bioinformatics methods to find therapeutics, known as personalized medicine. When applying for her Ph.D., she thought about if she wanted to continue down the path with patient data or change to microbiological data. She ultimately joined Dr. Lobo’s lab, which focuses on microbial data.

At the Lobo lab, all you need are computers. Hari stated that she is currently working on developing mathematical models made of differential equations to accurately understand how bacteria can break down complex sugars and how one is able to optimize the production of a compound. The application of these models is the aim that it can be applied to any organism of choice. For example, she shared how if a bacterium can produce an antibiotic, in order to obtain the optimized yield, the model can be used to see which enzyme should be overproduced. This data is then sent to laboratories to test for accuracy.

One of the perks of bioinformatics research is that compared to time-sensitive experiments where some researchers may have to work overtime to check on the progress of the experiment, creating mathematical models on a computer can be done anytime. Even though time flexibility allows Hari to be able to balance her life, she admitted that as an early researcher, she neglected her mental health and prioritized research. Now, Hari realizes the importance of taking time for herself. In her free time, Hari enjoys reading, watching anime, and drawing, and all these activities are necessary to recharge her for the work waiting at the lab.

While being a researcher is certainly a challenge, Hari has excelled. She is proof that even if the road to discover your career is not straightforward, and even if the research may seem too overwhelming, passion will keep you going.

Questions?

BIOL 141H student: Ajeetha Arudchandran (aarudch1@umbc.edu)

Graduate Student: Archana Hari (archh1@umbc.edu)