Prakrit Subba will graduate this week with his Ph.D. in biological sciences. We asked him to reflect on his time here at Clemson in Julia George’s lab through a short Q & A.
Research?
I studied how zebra finch parents use ‘heat calls’ to acoustically prepare their unhatched embryos for hot climates, reprogramming astrocyte development and thyroid signaling in the hypothalamus to boost adult heat tolerance – a molecular window into climate adaptation.
Next steps?
I will be joining the Medical University of South Carolina as a postdoctoral researcher in Dr. Russell Norris’ lab, where I will investigate how genetic variants contribute to connective tissue disorders such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.
Best thing about Clemson?
Clemson has an excellent “family” culture – a strong sense of school pride and belonging that I really enjoyed. There was great flexibility to take risks, explore interesting questions, and get good mentorship. I will miss this about BioSci and all the faculty/staff who supported me throughout my journey!
What will you miss the most?
I will miss working with our lab’s zebra finches and the solitude of a small college town like Clemson!
Advice for students?
Step outside the lab, take risks, explore opportunities, and plan ahead for a post-grad life. And whatever you do, knock it out of the park!
Memorable people?
I am thankful to Dr. George, Dr. Clayton, Dr. Baldwin, Dr. Chapman, and Prof. Minor. Also thankful to Teri, Amanda, Ginger, and Candice! Thankful for their support! I will miss my BioSci friends that became like family to me in Clemson!
Favorite Clemson activities?
Running, enjoying a nice sunset, tailgating and football games!
Lessons learned?
Pursue mentorship! Immerse yourself in peer mentorship and develop a wide variety of mentors, coaches, and advocates. It takes a village – so do not be afraid to stand on the shoulder of giants!
Proud moment?
I got to host a podcast with one of the best science communicators/podcast host (Erin Welsh from This Podcast Will Kill You).
