NYMC > Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences (GSBMS) > GSBMS Alumni Profiles > Anand Lakhkar

Anand Lakhkar, M.S. '10, Ph.D. '16 - Pharmacology

   Anand Lakhkar
   

What made you choose New York Medical College?

I chose New York Medical College because of its location, the high-quality teaching and reputation of the Department of Pharmacology and the research expertise of the faculty at NYMC. For someone like me from India where we do not get enough opportunities to interact with leading physicians and scientists, it has been a privilege to get the opportunity to interact with world-renowned scientists like Dr. Nasjletti, Dr. Wolin, Dr. Abraham and others.

Being close to New York City is a huge plus. There are so many things to explore and do in NYC.

Many Ph.D. programs over-emphasize research and do not emphasize that along with research skills, it is necessary to build a solid knowledge base of the subject you are specializing in. At NYMC, the Ph.D. programs are designed in such a way that along with outstanding research skills, the students also develop a strong knowledge base, which is extremely vital when you apply for jobs in the real world. The rigorous Ph.D. comprehensive exam in pharmacology is another reason why I was keen to complete my Ph.D. studies at NYMC.

What is your fondest memory of New York Medical College?

I have many fond memories of New York Medical College. My fondest memory is meeting  my wife at New York Medical College. Had it not been for New York Medical College, I would have never met her. I first met her eight years ago outside of the blue auditorium when I was working on my M.S. degree in pharmacology.

Another fond memory is the five months I spent preparing for my Ph.D. comprehensive exam. The pharmacologist in me was delighted that I had a chance to discuss the subject with outstanding teachers like Dr. Nasjletti, Dr. Inchiosa, Dr. Powers and Dr. Stier. The experience was very enriching for me and I cherish the time I spent interacting with them during the course of the comprehensive exam.

I made some amazing friends at NYMC and I cherish the friendships and memories. One thing I would like to note is the NYMC staff is simply outstanding. I had the chance to interact closely with the office staff in the Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Cell Biology and they all have been very kind and helpful.

What is your current professional role/position and some highlights of your career track?

Currently, I am working as a Senior Manager, Research and Development in an Indian Pharmaceutical company based in Western India.

Prior to coming to the U.S., I received my M.D. from India. Both my parents are doctors. My father is a radiologist and my mother is a family physician. Initially, the plan was for me to complete a residency in radiology and take over my father's practice. However, I developed a strong interest in pharmacology during medical school and decided to specialize in pharmacology and pursue a career in research and development in the pharmaceutical industry. On completion of my masters in pharmacology from NYMC in 2010, I returned back to India for a year where I worked as a medical advisor in the pharmaceutical industry before returning to the U.S. to complete my Ph.D. I also hold an M.S. in Cancer/Neuro-Pharmacology from Georgetown University.

Based on your experiences, what advice would you give to future students and/or future alumni of New York Medical College?

I would advise future students and future alumni that they have chosen an amazing place to study. Be humble and polite and work hard. The amazing people at NYMC will help you and guide you at every step to ensure that you succeed in your career. Enjoy your time at NYMC.

When you're not working, where are you most likely to be found/what are you most likely to be doing?

Most probably you will see me watching some history documentary. I am a huge history buff. You may also see me playing a wrestling game on my PlayStation or spending time with my 6-year old nephew and 3-year-old niece.