Dr. Kalyan Golla

Postdoctoral Fellow

Kim Lab

For National Postdoc Appreciation Week (NPAW), we spoke with several Centre for Blood Research (CBR) Postdoctoral Fellows and Research Associates, to highlight their work, celebrate their accomplishments, and share their stories. 

In the Kim Lab, Dr. Kalyan Golla (he/him) is uncovering the secrets behind platelet activation. He aims to develop therapeutics that can prevent platelets from forming deadly blood clots, while still preserving their role to stop bleeding from natural injuries. 

Tell me about your research. 

Platelets are sticky and anucleat cells circulating in the blood. They initiate the process of blood clotting under both physiological hemostasis – the natural clotting process that stops bleeding – and pathological thrombosis – the formation of deadly blood clots. Therefore, it is important to understand the mechanisms involved in platelet activation. My research is focused on understanding the molecular mechanisms that control how circulating blood platelets contribute to hemostasis and thrombosis. 

Platelets also need many proteins to carry out their functions. My research seeks to identify the role of several key proteins required for platelet function. I aim to develop new antiplatelet agents to manipulate protein function and regulate platelet reactivity in thrombosis, while preserving hemostasis. 

What do you love about science? 

I love science because I get to explore my curiosity and learn new things. As I learn, I don’t get answers, but instead get more questions. 

What sparked your interest in science? 

I have always been curious about the world we live in. As a child, I remember catching my interest in the traditional practices that my family followed to treat sickness.  I was always curious about how the contents of natural food products contribute to human health, particularly during sickness. 

My interest in science was sparked while I was in secondary school (because I did poorly in Mathematics). It was my biology teacher who taught me about the wonders of science. This led me down the road of studying biology and ultimately becoming a scientist. 

What are some of your favourite things to do outside of being a Postdoc?  

Coming from a farmer’s family, I have always had a keen interest in learning about farming methods. I was actively involved in various farming activities until graduation. My favourite pastime is to read and learn about how technology can help to develop modern farming practices. Currently, I am a passive farmer, leveraging my research and problem-solving skills to develop novel farming methods. 

Tell us about any Awards you have received or Achievements that you are proud of. 

Being a non-English speaker, I have faced many language challenges in my research career. My biggest achievement is earning a PhD in an English-speaking country. 

Thank you for speaking with us, Kalyan! Learn more about National Postdoc Appreciation Week (NPAW), which recognizes the significant contributions that postdoctoral scholars make to research and discovery.