Progress in the complex world of transplant immunology is rarely a straight line; it's a dynamic interplay of persistence, adaptation, and discovery.”
Shareni Jeyamogan (she/her)
Postdoctoral Scholar in the Department of Surgery
Dr. Shareni Jeyamogan is a postdoctoral scholar in the Department of Surgery in the Feinberg School of Medicine. Driven by a passion to improve outcomes for the transplant community, her research focuses on developing innovative strategies to induce immune tolerance. Dr. Jeyamogan is also the external communications coordinator for the Northwestern University Postdoctoral Association (NUPA) and Trainee Advisory Board member of Northwestern University Center for Human Immunobiology (CHI)
How would you describe your research and/or work to a non-academic audience?
Imagine a tiny heart, given a second chance to beat. A life saved, a future reborn through the miracle of transplantation. But behind this miracle, lies a difficult truth: the constant struggle to prevent the body from rejecting this precious gift—a struggle that often involves harsh medications with long-term side effects. It's a heartbreaking trade-off.
But what if it didn't have to be this way? I'm driven by the belief that we can do better. My research explores the incredible power within our own bodies—harnessing immune cells like regulatory T cells (Tregs) and exosomes—to naturally accept a transplanted organ, with the long-term goal of eliminating the use of harsh medications. I envision a world where transplant recipients can embrace their second chance at life without the shadow of constant medication, where they can live fully and joyfully. This is the hope which drives my work.
What is a mistake you have learned from in your career?
Progress in the complex world of transplant immunology is rarely a straight line; it's a dynamic interplay of persistence, adaptation, and discovery. It's a journey of exploration, filled with unexpected turns and apparent setbacks. But these 'mistakes,' these 'negative' results, are not dead ends. They're actually a chance to challenge our assumptions, to question our hypotheses, and to uncover unexpected insights. By fostering collaborations with experts from diverse backgrounds, we can transform these “hiccups” into powerful catalysts for discovery. Every unexpected finding is not a failure, but a step closer to understanding the intricate mechanisms of the immune system and ultimately, achieving our research goals.
What do you find both rewarding and challenging about your research and/or work?
Research is a relentless pursuit. It demands unwavering commitment, requiring personal sacrifices and countless hours spent wrestling with complex problems, particularly when dealing with something as intricate as the immune system. But the most rewarding aspect of this journey lies in the potential to make a real difference. The feeling of finally achieving a breakthrough, the realization that your work could translate into tangible benefits for patients through clinical studies—it's an unparalleled sense of accomplishment. It's the knowledge that your dedication, your late nights in the lab, your sacrifices, could ultimately contribute to improving lives. That's the driving force behind my passion for research.
How do you unwind after a long day?
After a long day of research, my go-to stress relievers are simple but effective: My amazing husband (Siva), cuddles from Hazel (my fur baby), call catch-ups with my family and close friends, board games and Netflix marathons. They're my personal recipe for happiness!
What inspires you?
Mother Teresa is my biggest inspiration. At the heart of my career aspirations lies a simple yet powerful motivation: to help others and make a positive impact on their lives (in alignment with Mother Teresa’s mission). It's a deeply personal calling—a desire to contribute something meaningful to the world. And equally important is the desire to honor the unwavering support of my loved ones—my family, friends, and mentors. They have been my constant source of strength and inspiration, and I am driven to make them proud by pursuing a career that aligns with my values and allows me to make a real difference.
How would your closest friends describe you?
I think my close friends would describe me as a complex mix. They see the fun-loving side of me—the crazy, funny, and sometimes mischievous person who loves to make them laugh. But they also know there's a deeper side. They know I'm incredibly loyal and that I value my friendships deeply. I'm the kind of person who would drop everything to be there for a friend in need, and I have a strong sense of justice that compels me to stand up for what's right, even when it's difficult.
What did you originally want to be when you grew up?
I always dreamed of becoming a medical doctor, being on the front lines of healing. But life sometimes takes unexpected turns. When financial limitations prevented me from pursuing that path directly, I refused to let go of my core desire: to make a positive impact on people's lives. Research became my new avenue, a way to contribute to medicine from a different perspective. Now, I have the privilege of working alongside doctors, contributing to discoveries that have the power to transform healthcare. It's a testament to the fact that even when one door closes, others can open, leading to equally fulfilling and impactful journeys.
What advice would you give your younger self or someone considering a similar path?
Where there's a will, and the determination to see it through, there's always a way. Never give up, trust the process and all will eventually fall into place.
What are you most proud of in your career to date?
I'm incredibly proud of the way I've navigated my career. It's been a journey of constant growth, marked by its fair share of challenges. There have been times when things felt difficult, but with the love and support of my husband and family, I've always found the strength to persevere. These experiences have shaped me, giving me a well-rounded skillset. My background in a diagnostic lab provided crucial practical experience, while my PhD and current research position have honed my academic thinking. I now have the ability to bridge the gap between the practical and theoretical, which I believe is a significant strength.
Publish Date: January 28, 2024
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