Aswath Karai

Aug 16, 2024
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Major and anticipated graduation: Chemistry, Spring 2026

Hometown: Okemos, Michigan

How did you decide to attend MSU: Growing up in the area, I had always been a passionate MSU fan, attending sporting events and wearing green and white throughout my childhood. Coupled with the beautiful campus and opportunities provided, attending MSU was the obvious decision.

How did you select your major: I always loved chemistry and found it interesting. Wanting to learn more about it, I chose to major in Chemistry.

Describe your research: I research the cell walls of various pathogenic fungi using Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR). Specifically, I investigate the different structural components of the fungal cell wall to help develop better antifungal treatments.

What is the societal impact of your research: The spores of Aspergillus are relatively ubiquitous in the atmosphere and unavoidable, with reports of the average person breathing in thousands of spores daily. While these spores have no adverse effects on healthy people, immunocompromised people, such as those taking immunosuppressants, those with AIDS, Leukemia, or even COVID-19, can acquire Aspergillosis. Aspergillosis has a mortality rate ranging from 30-95%, with estimates of 600,000 people dying each year from it. While many current antifungal drugs target the fungal cell wall, we have an incomplete understanding of the fungal cell wall and its remodeling in the presence of drugs. My research involves looking into the structural components of the cell wall and the effects different drugs have on it and therefore assisting in the development of more effective treatments.

How has your undergraduate experience been impacted by this experience: I have thoroughly enjoyed my experience conducting research. I have acquired numerous important skills, and realized how much more there is to learn. The experience has also shown me that I have a passion for research and could conduct it as a career.

If your little brother/sister was coming to MSU, what is one piece of advice you would give them: College is what you make of it. It’s a great place to try new things and meet new people. You might even find a new hobby or make lifelong friends.

Person/People who have inspired you: My parents have been my biggest inspiration. Words alone cannot describe what they have done for me.

Major research breakthrough of the next decade (not your own, but overall): Discovering evidence for the existence of a magnetic monopole.

Plans after graduation: After graduating from MSU, I plan to get a postgraduate degree.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years: Finishing up my postgraduate degree.

Where do you see yourself in 25 years: I hope to be successful and, more importantly, happy in my future career while also having the time to travel the world.

What are some of your favorite MSU memories: Some of my favorite memories at MSU include tailgating the football games, playing basketball, and cooking up late-night noodles.

Importance of this scholarship to you personally and to your future career: Through this program, I am given the opportunity to convey my research and its findings to a diverse range of people. Additionally, I will be able to improve the communication skills needed for my future career.