BIOCAPS Spotlight: Dr. Bharat Joshi

Dr. Joshi earned his master’s degree from Saurashtra University, India and completed his Ph.D. as a UNESCO Fellow at the Microbiology Institute in Prague. In 2001, Dr. Joshi joined Dr. Chellappan’s Lab at Columbia University in New York, which later that year moved to the H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Research Center in Tampa, Florida. During those years, his research focus was on cell cycle regulation of cancer cells. In 2005, he relocated to Vancouver, BC, Canada to work in Dr. Nabi’s Lab at the Department of Cellular & Physilogical Sciences, UBC.

Joshi is a top-notch molecular biologist who is critical to every project in my lab. Joshi ensures that the lab runs efficiently and makes the lab a pleasant and inviting environment to work in. He brings positive energy to the floor and is always ready to help. As Wing Manager, he maintains essential common equipment and promotes safe use and training of our lab facilities. Joshi is pro-active in supporting environmentally conscious lab work and an advocate for diversity in the workplace.  Joshi is a great team player and overall fantastic guy.

Dr. Ivan Robert Nabi, Professor

Tell us about your research focus.

I’m intrigued about how cells regulate themselves, particularly in relation to cancer. I find the cross-talk and complex network of proteins and organelles within cells fascinating. Lately, my research has centered on the role of Gp78, an E3 ubiquitin ligase and cell membrane receptor protein, in mitophagy and cell cycle control in cancer cells.

What first motivated you to get into your specific area of research?

I’ve always been fascinated by genes, proteins and their regulation and interactions, but my passion for the field was ignited when I met Dr. James D. Watson during my Ph.D. studies in Prague. His lectures and pioneering work on the structure and function of DNA profoundly inspired me to pursue research in this area.

What is most satisfying about your job? 

As a researcher, even small experiments ignite a sense of inquisitiveness and excitement in me. The results, whether positive or negative, provide critical insights that expand my scientific knowledge and are the most fulfilling part of my profession, despite others may find it insignificant.

What is something most people don’t know about you?

I enjoy spicy food but I’m not fond of sweets or chocolates. 

What is your favourite quote and why?

My mother instilled in me the quote “Whatever happens, happens for good.” She taught me that bad things can turn into good over time, and we should not curse them at the moment. Only in retrospect do we realize that what happened in the past happened for our good.