July 2024:
Q&A with Nandaki Keshavan, Ph.D
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by
admin
Tell us about your research background and goals.
During my undergraduate studies at the University of Cambridge, I benefited from being surrounded by a highly academic environment which piqued my interest in medical and biological research. Later, as a London paediatric trainee, I became very interested in metabolism and genetics. I then secured a post at Great Ormond Street Hospital where I decided to specialise in paediatric metabolic medicine and have since developed a special interest in mitochondrial disorders. My research interests include natural history studies, clinical guideline development, understanding pathophysiological mechanisms, development of preclinical models and gene therapy approaches for treating mitochondrial disorders. Recently I was appointed via UK-wide recruitment to a competitive academic clinical lectureship post at University College London which is a significant career milestone and has enabled me to undertake further research in parallel with my subspecialty training. My goal is to become a clinician scientist active in translational research geared at developing much-needed effective disease modifying therapies for primary mitochondrial disorders of diverse genetic causes.
What is something you are proud you've accomplished so far as a Researcher?
My work on gene therapy for primary mitochondrial disease is my biggest research achievement. In 2018, I secured a competitive Action Medical Research clinical research training fellowship which enabled me to undertake a funded PhD at University College London where I developed a novel in-vivo gene therapy approach to treat DGUOK deficiency. As a clinician-in-training who initially did not have a background in molecular biology or experience with characterising animal models at the start of this research, I am particularly proud that I was able to work past these limitations and additional hurdles along the way (including the COVID pandemic) to complete the intended work with much experimental success, and to go on to be awarded my PhD in 2023. Since then I have presented my results at two international conferences, have had a manuscript of my research findings accepted by Molecular Therapy Methods and Clinical development and secured a large follow-on research grant to refine the therapeutic approach further.
If you could only keep three possessions, what would they be?
My laptop (arguably the most valuable thing I own), yoga mat (I am a huge proponent of the multiple benefits of regular yoga practice) and a pair of anti-fog swimming goggles (I love swimming and do so 2-3 times per week but really cannot ostensibly manage to do so without goggles!)
If you could travel anywhere, where would you go?
At the time of writing this I am en-route to French Polynesia – a place that I have always wanted to go ever since I undertook my undergraduate medical elective in the Solomon Islands. These atolls are some of the most difficult to reach (>20 hours of flying from London), the reefs that surround them are teeming in marine wildlife but, like many small island nations worldwide, are slowly sinking into the ocean so we do not know for how much longer they will be around. In addition to this I am welcoming the opportunity to disconnect, introspect and recharge in warmer climes!
Where is your happy place?
The ocean floor. One of the pastimes that I enjoy is scuba diving. It offers me an escape from day-to-day inner city life and a much needed chance to commune with nature. I find staring at the infinite blue humbling, mesmerising and almost meditative. In addition to meeting some beautiful sea creatures such as sharks, manta rays and turtles, along the way I have also met many amazing fellow-divers who also share a love for the ocean and marine wildlife. I am now absolutely addicted and when I am not working, I am most likely to be planning my next diving adventure! If anyone shares the same passion – do get in touch!
What's your favorite quote?
‘You must be the change you want to see in the world’ – Mahatma Gandhi.
I like to be reminded of this quote from time to time since I see it as a call to reject reticence and to take action. It helps me redefine my sense of purpose and how I can maximise my contribution to those around me both personally and professionally.

Nandaki Keshavan, Ph.D
E-Mit Board Junior Member Representative
Academic Clinical Lecturer
University College London, UCL GOS Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom