Tell us a little bit about yourself.
My father was a physician who always encouraged me to be a doctor. I was a practicing physician in Bangladesh for more than a decade as a general practitioner. After immigrating to USA, I started working as a clinical lab specialist at UVA infertility clinic 1998. Eventually I enrolled in Master program of clinical research at UVA while I was working at UVA. Currently I am working as a clinical research coordinator intermediate at endocrine and metabolism division and engaged in clinical trial https://www.saltstudy.com/
Why education and why research?
Education and research dive to a deeper level of observation which always helps to build up solid knowledge I believe. At this point I am very much involved and engaged in the field of clinical research. It is fascinating to see how much we can add to, innovate, and promote the vast area of clinical care and preventive medicine by the outcome of clinical research.
What brought you to Charlottesville?
Originally I came straight from Dhaka, Bangladesh to Charlottesville in 1995 in the month of August as my brother in law used to study in McIntire School of commerce UVA. Although he moved to California, we (my core family of four including myself, two boys and husband) fell in love with the beautiful surroundings and wonderful people of Charlottesville.
What excites you about your work?
The most exciting part of my job is the diversity of participants and different age groups in which almost 80 percent are UVA students. I love their enthusiasm and desire to participate in research and planning for their future research. In addition I am highly excited to have the opportunity to work under the guidance and supervision of Dr. Robert Carey, an internationally renowned professor emeritus and Dr. Robin Felder, an extraordinary innovator (full of unique ideas).
Proudest / greatest achievement outside the professional realm?
I am proud of two wonderful sons who are working in their desired field. Tonu works as a technical project manager (graduate of William and Mary College). And Onu works as a computer engineer at Bloomberg (graduate of UVA). In addition I believe I have quite a few great friends of different ethnic backgrounds and diverse age groups in Charlottesville, which complete, support and strengthen my life a lot.
Next life?
In retired life I would like get more involved with cooking projects and am hoping to write a cook book full of recipes for Indian food. Also I would be interested in visiting my old friends who are residing in different countries.
What are you usually doing on the weekend?
Sometimes I take a trip to Arlington or New York to visit my sons. When the season permits I enjoy gardening. Moreover, I raise funds for the homeless at The Haven (a day shelter) every third Saturday.
How did you meet your partner?
I met him at Rajshahi Medical College. He was one year ahead of me.
Favorite vacation/activity spot
I have many favorite spots, however, Niagara Falls is my favorite place because I visited it sometime back with my friends and family when my boys were little. An activity that is really exciting for me is attending social gatherings and meeting new people.
Most admired person, and why?
My father is my most admired person, because in his 92 years of life he has done so many good things for people. Not only medical care, he has also helped many people to further their education.
What about you would surprise us?
I am teaching Bengali recipes to Charlottesville and Lynchburg communities such as The Haven, Senior center, PVCC, Albemarle high school, cultural festival, Lynchburg Park and recreation, Lynchburg city market, Bridge between the World, Vegetarian Festival, Ecovillage, Spice Diva, Whole food store, and International Center UVA. In most cases I volunteer my time.
You might be surprised to know I have been teaching my native Bengali at the Speak! language center here in Charlottesville.
Filed Under: News and Notes