Podcast link : Microfluidics Scientist Interview

Human relevant 3D models not only promote ethical research by reducing reliance on animal testing but also evaluate drug efficacy and safety with greater precision.

Subia Bano, our next pathbreaker, Scientist at Zydus Life Sciences, works on drug discovery and the development of new medicines. 

Subia talks to  Shyam Krishnamurthy from The Interview Portal about her career in research, and being awarded the Marie Curie Individual Fellowship in Paris, where she worked on microfluidics and organ-on-chip systems for breast cancer research at Elvesys Microfluidic Innovation Centre.

For students, build a strong foundation in whatever you pursue, because true depth will always outlast shortcuts. 

Subia, what were your early years like? 

I grew up in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, in a family of teachers, surrounded by books and a culture that valued learning and education. Both my parents were school teachers, and their love for learning shaped my mindset from an early age. They encouraged me to stay curious and work hard. 

At school, I chose the Science stream because I was fascinated by how living things work. I excelled in Botany, Zoology, and Chemistry, though Physics was always a bit of a challenge. 

My parents’ passion for education and science sparked my curiosity from an early age. Over time, supportive peers and mentors encouraged me to step beyond my comfort zone, whether it was learning programming during my Master’s or exploring advanced technologies in international fellowships. Admission to BHU’s Bioinformatics Master’s program opened the door to an exciting interdisciplinary field, blending biology with computational tools. Later, my performance in the GATE exam led to a PhD at IIT Kharagpur, where I experienced firsthand how research can directly improve human health. 

What did you study for graduation and post-graduation? 

Driven by a deep interest in life sciences, I completed my BSc in Botany and Chemistry from Gorakhpur University (UP) while preparing for medical entrance exams 

When I didn’t secure admission to medical school, I began exploring other opportunities. One day, I came across an advertisement for a Master’s in Bioinformatics at Banaras Hindu University (BHU). I applied, topped the entrance exam, and got in. This was a defining phase in my academic journey, as I stepped into an interdisciplinary field that combined biology with mathematics, statistics, algorithms, and programming, despite having left mathematics after Class 10th. It was tough at first, but with late-night study sessions and the guidance of supportive professors, I caught up and performed well. I graduated with excellent grades, building a skill set that shaped the rest of my research career. 

What were some of the key influences that led you to such an offbeat, unconventional, and unique career in Deep Tech and Life Sciences? 

In my final semester, I decided to take the GATE exam just to test myself and achieved an All India Rank of 76. This opened the door to a PhD in Biotechnology at IIT Kharagpur, where I worked on “silk protein-based biomaterials for bone and cartilage regeneration and cancer drug delivery” and published my research in a reputed international journal. 

Missing out on medical school was a setback, but it became the turning point that led me to research, my true calling. International fellowships in Finland and France, especially the prestigious Marie Curie Fellowship in Paris, pushed me into cutting‑edge areas like microfluidics and organ‑on‑chip systems fields, which I had never worked on, but gradually mastered. With no prior experience, I drew on self‑determination, continuous learning, resourcefulness, and persistence to develop and submit a successful research proposal to the European Union. Earning this fellowship not only expanded my scientific expertise but also reshaped my career path, giving me the confidence to take on unfamiliar challenges. My later work at Pandorum Technologies and now at Zydus Life Sciences has deepened my understanding of how discoveries in the lab translate into real‑world drug development. Each challenge, mentor, and unexpected opportunity has strengthened my commitment to using science to improve human health. 

Tell us about your career path in research 

After completing my Master’s in Bioinformatics at BHU, I cleared the GATE exam and began my PhD at IIT Kharagpur, where I worked on silk protein-based materials for tissue engineering and drug delivery, my first step into biomedical research. 

My work involved isolating silk protein from silkworm cocoons and transforming it into various forms like 3D scaffolds, hydrogels, and nanoparticles. These materials were used to support cell growth and migration, mimicking how cells behave in the human body. Once the cells matured on these silk-based structures, I tested anticancer drugs to study their effects on cell behaviour. I also explored how these silk matrices could help in bone and cartilage regeneration, which is crucial for healing injuries and improving tissue repair. I also used bioinformatics to analyze gene expression data. 

This experience gave me a strong foundation in biomaterials and tissue engineering, and helped me transition from academic research into the biotech industry, where I now apply both my bioinformatics and experimental skills to solve real-world problems. 

After my PhD, I stayed in India for family reasons and joined as Postdoc at CSIR–IGIB in Delhi, working on peptide-based gene delivery for treating retinal diseases which strengthened my expertise in molecular biology and therapeutic applications. 

My research at CSIR-IGIB was entirely wet lab-based, focusing on peptide-based gene delivery systems for treating retinal diseases. The peptides were commercially purchased, and my focus was on evaluating their ability to safely and efficiently deliver therapeutic genes into retinal cells. This approach aims to improve current treatments by offering targeted delivery, better cellular uptake, and reduced toxicity, which are major challenges in retinal gene therapy. While it didn’t involve sequencing or genomics directly, it strengthened my skills in molecular biology, cell culture, and therapeutic development. 

This led to another Postdoc position through an Indo–Finnish Fellowship at the University of Kuopio, Finland, a major step in my career and personal growth which exposed me to global research practices. 

My work in Finland was an extension of the research I began at CSIR. Here, I continued this work by testing these systems in hard-to-transfect differentiated retinal cell lines, which are more physiologically relevant but challenging for gene delivery. I also evaluated the mobility of peptides in bovine eyes to determine whether they could reach the retina or were getting trapped in the vitreous humor. Additionally, I also initiated in vivo gene delivery experiments in mice to evaluate the therapeutic potential and tissue-specific targeting of the peptide-based system. However, due to time constraints, this part of the study remained incomplete, though it laid the groundwork for future exploration and validation. This phase of my research deepened my expertise in molecular therapeutics and helped bridge lab-based innovation with translational applications. 

How did you transition to the field of Microfluids and Organ-on-chip technologies? 

With no prior experience in microfluidics or organ-on-chip systems, I taught myself the necessary skills to design a successful EU-funded project. 

Through my proposal, I was awarded a Marie Curie Individual Fellowship in Paris, where I worked on microfluidics and organ-on-chip systems for breast cancer research at “Elvesys Microfluidic Innovation Centre”. Microfluidics is a technology that manipulates tiny volumes of liquid through microscale channels that mimic the architecture and flow dynamics of human blood vessels. Organ-on-chip systems are miniature, bioengineered platforms that simulate the structure and function of real human organs. Together, these technologies enable the creation of complex tissue environments in-vitro, offering a more physiologically relevant alternative to traditional cell culture models. This approach allows researchers to study disease mechanisms and evaluate drug responses in a setting that closely mirrors human biology, thereby improving translational accuracy and reducing reliance on animal models. It was a completely new field for me, but I studied hard, wrote a strong project proposal, and was selected by the European Union. This was a turning point that expanded my work into advanced disease modelling and international collaboration. 

When I started my Marie Curie research project, I was driven by one big question: How can we build better lab models to understand cancer and improve drug testing without relying on animals? 

Traditional cancer research often uses flat (2D) cell cultures or animal models. But these don’t fully capture how human tissues behave, and results from animals don’t always translate to humans. So, I turned to a cutting-edge solution, organ-on-chip technology. 

How does an Organ-on-Chip work? How did that lead you to Pandorum Technologies? 

Think of it like a mini lab-on-a-chip, a small device that mimics how real human organs work. These chips use microfluidics, which means tiny channels that allow fluids to flow, just like blood in our body. By designing chips that simulate the breast tumor environment, we can study cancer in a more realistic way. 

My work focused on three main areas: 

Microfabrication of the chip platform: I designed the chip layout using AutoCAD software and fabricated the platforms with soft materials such as PDMS, employing techniques like soft lithography. These chips had tiny channels and compartments where we could grow cancer cells alongside immune and endothelial cells just to mimic a real tumor. 

I created 3D breast cancer models on a microfluidic chip, essentially a miniaturized organ that mimics the tumor environment. This setup allowed us to observe how tumors respond to shear stress (similar to the force of blood flow), nutrient gradients, and drug treatments in real time. Compared to traditional 2D cell cultures, these 3D models offer a much more accurate prediction of how treatments might work in the human body. 

By creating organ-on-chip platforms, we can replicate human organ functions in a lab setting, allowing us to study diseases and test drugs in a more realistic way. 

Reducing Animal Testing: By replicating organ-level behavior on a chip, we could gather meaningful data without using animals. This is not only more ethical but also scientifically more relevant to the human biology. 

Transformative Experience 

Coming from a different academic background, learning microfluidics and bioengineering was challenging but incredibly rewarding. The fellowship gave me access to a platform equipped with advanced tools and collaborative opportunities in Paris, where I worked alongside scientists from around the world focused on building cutting-edge disease models. 

Returning to India, I transitioned to the industry at Pandorum Technologies, a biotech start-up creating 3D cell models for liver and lung diseases. This experience gave me first-hand insight into how research translates into real-world healthcare solutions. 

Can you explain your work at Pandorum Technologies? 

At Pandorum Technologies, I focused on developing 3D human disease models, particularly for liver and lung disorders. These models are designed to replicate the complex biological environments of human organs, allowing us to study disease progression and test therapeutic drugs more accurately. 

One of my key contributions was building a liver-on-a-chip platform; a microfluidic device that mimics the liver’s architecture and function. This included simulating liver angiogenesis, the process by which new blood vessels form within the liver. Using hydrogel scaffolds, microfluidic channels, and angiogenic factors like VEGF, we recreated vascular networks that resemble those found in real liver tissue. 

I also investigated how concentration gradients within the chip influence the migration of endothelial cells, which are critical for forming blood vessels. This helped us understand how liver vasculature develops and responds to different therapeutic compounds. 

By creating these human-relevant 3D models, we were able to: 

  • Reduce reliance on animal testing 
  • Study liver diseases such as Inflammation and fibrosis in a controlled environment 
  • Evaluate drug efficacy and safety with greater precision 

These models are not computer simulated; they are physical, lab-built systems that use living cells and engineered materials to replicate organ-level functions. 

How did you get your first break? 

My journey wasn’t mapped out in advance, it was shaped by curiosity, persistence, and the courage to embrace opportunities beyond my comfort zone. Each phase, from academic research to international fellowships and industry roles, built the skills and perspective that define my career today. 

From a small town in Uttar Pradesh to advanced research labs in Finland and France, my journey has been about adapting to change, embracing challenges, and continuous learning. I began with the dream of becoming a doctor, but life’s twists led me to become a scientist instead, a path that has been equally fulfilling and impactful. Every obstacle taught me resilience, and every opportunity helped me grow. 

I didn’t map out my first big break, it arrived quietly, disguised as a small advertisement for a Master’s in Bioinformatics at BHU. At the time, I was focused on medical entrance exams and had no idea what bioinformatics even was. Still, something inside me said I should apply. 

I took the leap, cleared the entrance, and to my surprise, topped the exam. Suddenly, I was in a completely unfamiliar world, new concepts, new skills, and a steep learning curve. There were sleepless nights, moments of doubt, and plenty of trial and error. But every step forward built my resilience. That choice not only helped me crack the GATE exam but also opened doors to research and drug development; fields that have defined my career. 

Looking back, I’ve learned that your first break isn’t always about a perfect plan. Sometimes, it’s about saying yes to an opportunity you don’t fully understand yet and trusting yourself to grow into it. 

Transitioning from academia to industry was tough, but I got my first break at Pandorum Technologies by aligning my research interests with their work in tissue engineering. My hands-on experience with organ-on-chip platforms and microfluidics matched their focus, and I showcased practical lab skills and a strong interest in translational science. That opened the door to a role where I could apply my academic knowledge to real-world biomedical challenges. 

What were some of the challenges you faced? How did you address them? 

I stepped into the completely unfamiliar field of Computational Biology with no prior background. The terminology, tools, and concepts were overwhelming at first, but I committed to self‑learning, devouring textbooks, available resources, and seeking guidance from professors and peers to quickly bridge my knowledge gaps. 

Balancing demanding coursework with the pressure to excel in a competitive environment tested my resilience. I built disciplined study schedules, focused on understanding rather than rote memorization, and practiced consistently. This approach not only helped me cope but also enabled me to clear the national level exam. 

Evolving from a background in fundamental sciences to becoming a scientist required adaptability, persistence, and a constant drive to learn. It often felt like starting over, and self‑doubt would creep in. I focused on small wins, shared my work whenever possible, and reminded myself that adaptability is a strength. Over time, these efforts strengthened my confidence as I began to see real progress and tangible results. 

Where do you work now? 

Today, as a Scientist at Zydus Life Sciences, I focus on drug discovery and the development of new medicines. 

I am currently part of the drug discovery, where we work to identify and develop novel therapeutic candidates that can address unmet medical needs. Drug discovery is a multidisciplinary process that begins with identifying a biological target linked to a disease, followed by screening and optimizing potential compounds to ensure they are both effective and safe. 

What problems do you solve? 

At Zydus, I work in the drug discovery team addressing the critical challenge of finding and developing new therapeutic candidates for diseases where current treatments are ineffective, unsafe, or unavailable. Our goal is to move promising molecules from an initial concept through rigorous research toward preclinical and clinical development, ultimately improving patient care on a global scale. 

What skills are needed for the job? How did you acquire the skills? 

Drug discovery demands a strong foundation in molecular biology, cell biology, pharmacology, and fundamental data analysis, complemented by problem‑solving, critical thinking, and effective collaboration. I built these skills through rigorous academic training, success in competitive examinations, and extensive hands-on research experience across diverse academic and industry settings. Over the years, I have refined my ability to rapidly learn and apply new scientific tools and adapt to emerging technologies, enabling me to contribute meaningfully to complex, multidisciplinary projects. 

What’s a typical day like? 

A typical day in my role is dynamic and rarely follows the same pattern. My work often begins with designing, planning, and conducting experiments or conceptualizing new approaches to address research questions. I then analyze complex datasets and review the findings to draw meaningful conclusions. I prepare clear and concise presentations summarizing results, which are shared during discussions with cross‑functional teams. These sessions involve collaborating with colleagues from different disciplines, exchanging insights, and refining strategies. I also contribute to strategic discussions focused on guiding research priorities and shaping the next steps in ongoing projects. This balance of focused research, data‑driven analysis, and collaborative problem‑solving ensures that each day is both intellectually stimulating and impactful. 

What is it you love about this job? 

What inspires me most is the direct connection between my work and its potential to change lives. Every experiment and discussion bring us a step closer to breakthroughs that could offer hope to patients with no effective treatment options. The blend of challenge, innovation, and purpose makes this role deeply rewarding, it’s science with a human impact. 

How does your work benefit society? 

My work in drug discovery is about saving and improving lives. I contribute by developing medicines for unmet medical needs, creating therapies that enhance quality of life, advancing scientific knowledge for future innovations, and building trust in science through reliable, real-world solutions. The true measure of impact lies not just in lab results, but in the hope and healing it brings to patients, families, and communities. 

Tell us an example of a specific memorable work you did that is very close to you 

During my Marie Curie Fellowship in Paris, I faced a challenge that would become one of the most defining moments of my career. With no prior experience in microfluidics or organ-on-chip systems, I set out to design a research proposal for an EU-funded project. I immersed myself in self-learning, mastered new techniques, and sought guidance from experts across disciplines. 

When the proposal was accepted, it opened the door to advanced disease-modeling research and global collaboration. This experience is close to my heart because it proved that stepping into the unknown with determination and adaptability can turn an intimidating challenge into a career-shaping achievement. 

Your advice to students based on your experience? 

Never hesitate to ask questions, no matter how small or obvious they may seem. Curiosity is the gateway to deeper understanding, and the courage to ask reflects strength, not weakness. Learning to work well with others’ collaboration builds patience, sharpens communication, and teaches you to appreciate different perspectives. Remember, success is rarely the result of individual brilliance alone; it’s about how effectively you connect, share, and grow with those around you. Stay open to unexpected opportunities, they often lead to the most rewarding experiences. Build a strong foundation in whatever you pursue, because true depth will always outlast shortcuts. 

Value both hard work and smart work, one gives you the stamina to keep going, the other gives you the clarity to move in the right direction. Keep learning, stay humble, and let every challenge shape you into a wiser, stronger version of yourself. 

Future plans 

I aspire to become a true drug hunter, turning innovative ideas into real medicines. My dream is to one day see a therapy I helped create making a difference in patients’ lives. For me, success means bringing hope, reducing suffering, and improving quality of life, transforming today’s lab work into tomorrow’s life-changing treatments.