What’s the most important leadership lesson you’ve learned?

That leadership is less about directing and more about cultivating trust. When people feel heard, respected, and empowered, they take ownership of their work and elevate the entire team.

What do you consider to be your most important career achievement or milestone?

During my master’s degree training, I contributed to a bacteriological food testing kit that was later patented. Seeing it implemented in rural India at a cost of just $1 was deeply meaningful. It strengthened my commitment to translational science that is rigorous, affordable, and accessible.

What do you aspire to accomplish in your career and why? What obstacles will you overcome?

To lead translational research turning lab discoveries into therapies for immune-mediated disorders. I will overcome competitive funding, scientific uncertainty, and systemic barriers faced by women and immigrants through resilience, collaboration, and consistent, focused effort.

Describe an amazing opportunity in your STEM career.

It was amazing to join Stanford as a research scientist, which placed me in the collaborative, cutting-edge environment I had long aspired to, a place where I could engage in interdisciplinary projects and advance translational research at the forefront of science.

How was AWIS helped you professionally and/or personally?

AWIS has provided a powerful network of women scientists who champion one another’s growth. Through leadership engagement and professional development resources, it has strengthened my confidence and expanded my visibility within the scientific community.

What is your favorite word? (only one word)

Grit.

How do you define it?

Grit is the perseverance and passion to pursue long-term goals despite obstacles, setbacks, or slow progress, staying committed with focus and determination over time.

How has this word influenced or inspired your career?

Grit has carried me through the toughest phases of my scientific career, particularly during my PhD education. Grit helped me stay focused, persevere through setbacks, and continue making progress even when challenges felt overwhelming.

How does AWIS impact your career journey?

AWIS provides mentorship, professional development, and a supportive network of women scientists, empowering me to grow confidently, navigate challenges in academia, and contribute to a more inclusive and collaborative scientific community.

What are you currently reading or listening to?

I’m currently exploring literature on translational immunology and listening to podcasts that highlight leadership, resilience, and the journeys of women in STEM, which inspire me to push boundaries, embrace challenges, and keep growing both professionally and personally.

What do you consider the best professional or personal advice you’ve ever received?

The best advice I’ve received came from my master’s PI, Dr. Param Pal Sahota: “Research is research; keep exploring until it reveals a clear path.” This taught me patience, persistence, and the value of staying curious even when results aren’t immediate.

Deepali Luthra, PhD, is a research scientist at Stanford Medicine, studying inhibitor development and immune tolerance in hemophilia and bleeding disorders, as well as immune modulation and host-pathogen interactions in cystic fibrosis. She has contributed to projects like a patented food testing kit used in rural India. Passionate about mentorship and women in STEM, she combines grit and consistency to drive translational, patient-centered research.