Ananya Khosla

Background: I was raised in Abu Dhabi, UAE, and am originally from India. I studied Human Biology at Stanford University, focusing on molecular and cellular biology and the mechanisms driving cancer and neurodegenerative disorders. My undergraduate work examined how lysosomal transporter proteins regulate lipid transport and affect the activity of choline-based anticancer drugs. For my thesis project, I developed a CRISPR-based knockout system to study lysosomal proteins and their roles in lipid reacylation pathways relevant to cancer. I also spent time gaining exposure to translational research through projects on bacteriophage-based therapeutics at a biotech startup.

Research Interests: My research interests include metabolic and cancer signaling pathways, stem cell biology, and core cellular processes studied through genomic and molecular approaches. I am also contributing to work investigating how metabolic cancer pathways—such as heme biosynthesis and retinoic acid signaling—can promote or constrain stemness in colorectal cancer. More broadly, I am motivated by projects that connect mechanistic biology with translational impact.

Fun facts/interests: Outside the lab, I play the violin and enjoy creative writing. I like learning and working across different languages, and I can read and write in five. I stay active through running, hiking, squash, and swimming, and I enjoy making time for both music and sports alongside research.