EP10 | From Plant Metabolic Engineering to Biomedical Translation

May 5, 2025

Engineering to Biomedical: In this episode of Mentor Konnect, we feature Prof. Thomas G. Sors, Assistant Director of the Purdue Institute of Inflammation, Immunology, and Infectious Disease. From a plant biologist to a biomedical innovator, Prof. Sors shares his unconventional career journey, the importance of courage in scientific transitions, and his work on COVID-19 diagnostic sensors through Identify Sensors Biologics.

🔍 Key Takeaways:
✔️ Inspiration through interactions—people and experiences shape our careers.
✔️ Played a role in bringing cryo-electron microscopy to India.
✔️ Courage in science—believe in yourself beyond others’ opinions.

❓ Key Questions Discussed:
1️⃣ How does expertise in plant-based molecular science offer unique insights in biomedical research?
2️⃣ What does it take to secure a postdoctoral fellowship or graduate program at Purdue University?

📌 Connect with Prof. Thomas G. Sors on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-g-sors-b09bba17/

Looking for NIH grants? Check this: https://biopatrika.com/career/events/win-more-grants-in-2025/

About Mentor Konnect

🎓 Inspiring Minds. Connecting Journeys.

Mentor Konnect is a storytelling and mentorship series by BioPatrika, designed to bridge the gap between aspiring scientists, professionals, and accomplished leaders across diverse fields—spanning biotech, physics, academia, industry, and beyond.

Each episode features an in-depth conversation with a trailblazer who shares personal career journeys, pivotal mentorship moments, challenges faced, and the mindset needed to navigate growth and transitions.

Whether you’re a student, researcher, postdoc, or industry professional, Mentor Konnect offers a unique blend of wisdom, warmth, and real-world guidance to help you carve your own path with confidence.