Even before attending college, Nitika Kamath, MSBS, says she knew she wanted to pursue a research-focused career. But would it be in genetics, or neuroscience, her two passions? And how would she get there?
In the following Q&A, she explains how curiosity and pivotal research opportunities, first in college and later, through Mount Sinai’s Master of Science in Biomedical Science program, have put her firmly on her own career path—in neuroscience—at the intersection of neurobiology and molecular biology.
What is your background?
I completed my undergraduate studies at Sarah Lawrence College, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts and Sciences. Going into college, I knew I wanted a research-focused career in either genetics or neuroscience. Through my pre-med coursework and hands-on lab experiences, my passion for neuroscience ultimately took center stage.
What first attracted you to this field?
My fascination with neuroscience truly sparked when I discovered the intersection of neurobiology and molecular biology—I was captivated by how molecular mechanisms manifest in complex behaviors and pathology. This curiosity led me to two pivotal research experiences. The first was at Sarah Lawrence during the summer of 2022 where I investigated the molecular biology of the vestibular system using zebra fish models in the lab of Cecilia Toro, PhD. Wanting to expand on this model, the subsequent summer I joined the lab of David Schoppik, PhD, at the NYU Grossman School of Medicine, where I studied the effects of tau accumulation on swimming behavior. Investigating tau really solidified my desire to focus on molecular biology through the lens of neurodegenerative models, which is exactly what brought me to Mount Sinai, where I joined the lab of neuroscientist Zhenyu Yue, PhD, Professor of Neuroscience, and Neurology, which is where I completed my MSBS thesis research work and other collaborative projects.
Who were your mentors, and what are some of your research highlights?
My MSBS thesis research focused on elucidating the complex molecular pathways that mediate the prevalence and signaling capacity of primary cilia, utilizing sophisticated Parkinson’s disease mouse models to better understand neurodegenerative mechanisms. My contributions to the lab’s fast-paced environment resulted in some of the following highlights:
- Co-authored a primary literature article titled, “Targeting specific kinase substrates rescues increased colitis severity induced by the Crohn’s disease-linked LRRK2-N2081D variant,” which was published in The Journal of Clinical Investigation
- Co-authored a review paper titled, “The emerging role and therapeutic targeting of autophagy-lysosome pathways in the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease,” published in the journal Translational Neurodegeneration
- A research poster presentation at the 17th Annual Friedman Brain Institute Neuroscience Retreat.
Why Mount Sinai—what, specifically, are the strong points of this program?
Mount Sinai provided the ideal ecosystem for me to elevate my technical expertise and grow as a researcher, largely due to the exceptional culture of mentorship and collaboration. Although I entered the program without an extensive background in neuroscience, the rigorous environment gave me the training and confidence to truly define myself as a neuroscientist. Beyond the bench, Mount Sinai’s vibrant community allowed me to forge deeply meaningful professional connections and lifelong friendships. I was eager to pour back into this community by stepping into leadership roles. As the Mentorship Director for the MSBS and Master of Science in Biomedical Data Science and AI programs, I designed initiatives to connect incoming students with peers to ease their transition into graduate school. Additionally, I served as the Social and Mentorship Chair for the Women in Science club, facilitating community-building events both within Mount Sinai and across neighboring New York City institutions. My passion also extended to the First-Generation Scholars program, where I mentored local high school students navigating the college application process. Ultimately, Mount Sinai’s unique balance of high-impact science and dedicated community advocacy is what makes its programs so profoundly strong.
How else did you excel at Mount Sinai?
My two years of dedicated research ultimately culminated in receiving the Award for Scientific Excellence within the biomedical science cohort. Furthermore, I had the distinct honor of being selected as the commencement speaker, where I had the privilege of representing the graduating Class of 2026.
What’s Next?
While my immediate next step is to secure an associate research scientist position, my long-term goal is to return to graduate school within a few years to pursue a PhD in Neuroscience. Ultimately, I want to dedicate my career to investigating neurodegenerative diseases, focusing on basic science research with a strong emphasis on translational applications.