Dr. Nithya Gnanapragasam Selected to Serve as Keynote at Renowned Conference

Associate Professor of Biology, Geology and Environmental Sciences Dr. Nithya Gnanapragasam has been invited to deliver a keynote address at the Gordon Research Seminar on Red Cells, held in conjunction with the Gordon Research Conference on Red Cells. 

The invitation recognizes Gnanapragasam's expertise and contributions to the field and highlights the national and international impact of her research.

The event takes place June 12-13, 2027, in Newport, Rhode Island.

“I could not believe it,” she said of the honor. “It feels like an honor to be able to contribute to the field and to the next generation of trainees, as I have attended GRS in the past and have benefited from the talks.”

Gnanapragasm was selected by the co-chairs of the Gordon Research Conference on Red Cells and by trainees leading the Gordon Research Seminar.

The conference, focused on “Emerging Perspectives in Red Cell Biology: From Fundamental Mechanisms to Novel Technologies,” will highlight advances in erythropoiesis and red cell research. It is one of the premier international scientific forums, known for showcasing unpublished, cutting-edge research and fostering in-depth academic discussion.

“Our laboratory’s research program at CSU is focused on understanding the molecular mechanisms that govern red blood cell production and hemoglobin synthesis,” she said. “While our studies are rooted in basic biology, our findings are relevant towards identifying novel therapeutic targets for ameliorating debilitating anemias such as sickle cell anemia and beta thalassemia.”

As part of her keynote, she will highlight her latest research at CSU and share her career journey, from her Ph.D. program and postdoctoral fellowship to her faculty position at CSU, offering insights into the path that shaped her research.

“Apart from learning about our work on hemoglobin regulation in red blood cells, I hope that next generation of trainees who attend this meeting will gain perspectives on navigating through the ups and downs and uncertainties in research career, and identify strategies that can aid their journey towards an independent research career in academia,” said Gnanapragasm.

She said research at CSU has been valuable in her work, along with the involvement of undergraduate and graduate students, and presentations by faculty and students at high-profile international conferences, including the Gordon Research Conference, American Society of Hematology annual meeting and Hemoglobin Switching meetings, provides visibility and networking opportunities with investigators and trainees in the field.

“Further support from leadership in our BGES department, GRHD and the research office has been crucial,” said Gnanapragasm. “That, along with encouragement from the upper administration, including the dean, provost and the president of CSU, has enabled us to conduct our research here.”