Ruby Gupta
Endosomes act as central metabolic hubs that regulate nutrient homeostasis and mitochondrial bioenergetics through the control of endosomal pH. In Dr. Rajini Rao’s lab, we demonstrated that the exchanger NHE6 acts as a “proteostatic switch” to control insulin responsiveness and iron handling. This work redefines endosomes as active metabolic regulators with broad implications for understanding metabolic diseases and disorders like Christianson’s syndrome.
Questions & Answers
Why did you choose Johns Hopkins for your work?
Johns Hopkins has been a dream university to me since I was a student in India, owing to its cutting-edge research and technology. When applying for postdoctoral positions, Hopkins was my singular choice because I knew I wanted to be a part of this world-class scientific community.
What does receiving this award mean to you personally and professionally? Do you have any connection with the particular award you received?
To be honored with the Albert Lehninger Award is a profound privilege. Having moved across the world to join the Hopkins community, this award represents the fulfilment of a long-held dream.
Professionally, it is a testament to the support of my mentor and the world-class environment here.
While personally, as the mother of a 14-month-old, this recognition brings me immense joy as a
validation of my ability to successfully navigate the demands of both pioneering research and
parenthood.
What contributed to your project’s success? (Special skills, interests, opportunities, guidance, etc.)
Undoubtedly the constant support and guidance from my mentor, Dr Rao, was fundamental. Additionally, the collaborative spirit of my labmates and the feedback received from colleagues during departmental seminars and poster sessions paved the way for this project’s success.
What thoughts do you have about Young Investigators’ Day itself, as a celebration of the roles students and fellows play in research at Johns Hopkins?
Young Investigators’ Day celebrates the curiosity and persistence that fellows bring to the lab every
day. Being part of this celebration motivates me to continue pursuing high quality, high-reward
research alongside such a talented cohort of peers.
What has been your best/most memorable experience while at Johns Hopkins?
My most memorable experience has been the incredibly supportive research environment at Johns
Hopkins. The willingness of fellow researchers to share protocols and help with troubleshooting
significantly accelerated my work and made the pursuit of science feel like a truly collaborative effort.
What are your plans over the next year or so? Graduating, looking for faculty positions, etc.?
I plan to finalize my current research projects at Hopkins before transitioning into a career in industry.
Tell me something interesting about yourself that makes you unique. Do you have any special hobbies, interests or life experiences?
What makes my journey unique is navigating my postdoctoral research at Hopkins as a first-time parent to a 14-month-old; juggling both worlds has taught me incredible resilience and made this professional achievement even more meaningful.