Riya Keshri, PhD

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

For me, leadership is a continuous process of learning, growth, and evolution where one has to remain open to feedbacks. It not only demands responsibility, but for thoughtful decision-making, active listening to value diverse perspectives, and empathy are equally important.

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

My graduate school journey solidified my scientific foundation, critical thinking, and independence. It taught me to design experiments, communicate ideas, and overcome challenges with persistence. That experience shaped my career and identity, teaching me to independently drive research.

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

I aspire to become an academic faculty member leading innovative research in regenerative medicine and aging. Supported by my passion and excitement for discovery, I will navigate the highly competitive academic environment, stand my ground, and collaborate to make science more accessible.

Describe an amazing opportunity in your STEM career.

Leading a skeletal muscle reprogramming project using synthetic proteins has been an amazing opportunity. It immersed me in translational science and signaling rewiring, shaping my openness to risky, high-aim projects that I will bring to my future independent laboratory.

How was AWIS helped you professionally and/or personally?

AWIS provides a reassuring, collaborative community of inspiring women scientists. It makes my journey more interactive and comforting, proving I am not alone.

What is your favorite word? (only one word)

Magnanimity.

How do you define it?:

To me, magnanimity means generosity, humanity, and leading with both heart and mind.

How has this word influenced or inspired your career?

It’s the mantra that shapes how I approach collaboration and mentorship, reminding me to stay empathetic, supportive, and open-minded.

How does AWIS impact your career journey?

AWIS provides a profound sense of community and belonging. It’s a constant reminder that women scientists can support and uplift one another while navigating both personal and professional challenges, making my journey more interactive and encouraging.

What are you currently reading or listening to?

I am reading Zorba the Greek! Zorba’s philosophy of embracing life with passion, dancing through tragedy, and maintaining a careless yet deeply careful presence shows that nothing can go wrong if you build the right mindset. Living in the moment is both grounding and relieving.

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

“Never underestimate yourself; focus on yourself. You are not bonded labor.” These words from Prof. Uttam Pati, initiated my transformation from an extremely shy person into a resilient leader. We can make big decisions only when we have faith in ourselves, and step confidently into new horizons.

Riya Keshri, PhD, is a research scientist focusing on cell fate reprogramming using synthetic de novo binders. By optimizing skeletal muscle reprogramming, she explores novel signaling rewiring to address major human health challenges. Her ultimate career aspiration is to lead an independent academic laboratory developing translational therapeutics, with a long-term goal of advancing aging research and precision medicine. She remains committed to scientific leadership and fostering an inclusive STEM community.