The Michael John Page Postdoctoral Fellow Award recognizes a postdoctoral fellow who reflects Dr. Page’s academic excellence and his passion for life. This year’s Michael John Page Award recipient is Dr. MD Mohosin Rana, a Postdoctoral Fellow in Dr. Jayachandran Kizhakkedathu’s Lab.

Mohosin is a bioengineer whose work bridges biomaterials science and biomedical engineering. He earned his PhD in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Calgary in 2022, funded by the CFREF Fellowship, and is now a Postdoctoral Fellow in the Kizhakkedathu Lab at UBC, supported by the Michael Smith Health Research BC Trainee Award. His research focuses on developing glycoconjugate-based bioengineering strategies to improve transplant outcomes. Mohosin is committed to mentoring students through research programs and internships, guiding them toward publications and career growth. He is also active in outreach initiatives such as Let’s Talk Science and ASM Global Outreach, and has held leadership roles in student associations that strengthen academic and cultural communities. Beyond the lab, he enjoys cricket, hiking, photography, and cultural activities that bring people together.

The presentation recording is available here: RECORDING.

Presentation Abstract

“Engineering Immunity, Empowering People: Advancing Transplant Tolerance and Building Scientific Communities!”

Organ transplantation is a life-saving option for endstage organ failure, yet immune rejection and vascular injury continue to limit long-term success. My research addresses these challenges through glycopolymer-based cell surface engineering, using functionalized polymers with immunosuppressive sugars and bioactive tags to protect the endothelial glycocalyx and enhance immunomodulation. Alongside these scientific advances, I have embraced roles as a mentor, community builder, and advocate for knowledge translation. Guiding students and fellows, fostering networks, and engaging with diverse communities have been central to my journey, enriching the culture of science beyond the bench. These values resonate with the legacy of Dr. Michael John Page, whose excellence and passion for life remain a powerful example for the scientific community.

Many thanks to the Centre for Blood Research, the Michael Page Endowment Fund, and the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology for their generous support of the award and ceremony.