Tuhina studied biotechnology in college, earning her bachelor’s degree (BS). She then earned a graduate degree in public health (MPH) and later a doctoral degree (Ph.D.) in epidemiology. Tuhina has worked in biomedical research on topics, such as viral evolution after infection, and she also served as a research coordinator for the Vaccine Education Center at CHOP.
 

How did you first become interested in science?

My parents bought me a Fisher Price doctor’s kit that I played with endlessly, and they fostered my interest in science by checking out science books from the library weekly when I was growing up.

What was your favorite science class?

My favorite science class was biology because I loved learning how our world grows.

What advice do you have for students interested in a STEM career?

No questions are dumb questions, and failure is part of the process! There is probably someone else in the room wondering the exact same thing you are. Be inquisitive and don’t give up. There are multiple ways to achieve what you want so don’t let any obstacles in your path stop you!

What is your favorite part of your job?

Being able to come up with a pertinent research question regarding people’s health and answering that question using data in order to improve population health.

What current scientific discovery or project are you most excited about?

COVID-19 vaccines! Literally saving the world!