How a Kennesaw State Student is Paving the Way for a Successful Health Care Career Through an Innovative Research Project

KENNESAW, Ga. | Mar 4, 2025

Kennesaw State University student Shifa Jiwani is diving into a fascinating research project. She is investigating how certain bacteria can create arsenic-based antibiotics to compete with other bacteria.

Shifa’s project is part of the Sophomore Scholars program, guided by Dr. Masafumi Yoshinaga, an associate professor in molecular and cellular biology. This research aims to tackle the serious issue of antimicrobial resistance, which could lead to 2 million deaths annually by 2050, as noted in a Lancet study.

“Arsenic is toxic to humans, but we’re taking a different look at it,” says Shifa, who is part of the KSU Journey Honors College with a focus on human health.

Shifa’s interest in healthcare stems from her experiences in rural India, where she saw many people struggle to access medical care. This inspired her to work towards better healthcare accessibility.

Each week, she dedicates 5 to 10 hours in the lab, wearing protective gear and following daily protocols on her laptop. Recently, she has been using advanced liquid chromatography equipment to extract and purify antibiotics from Escherichia coli.

Dr. Yoshinaga, who has been studying this topic for over ten years, points out that E. coli is a versatile bacterium that can be engineered. The project involves integrating a synthesized gene into E. coli to enable it to produce a new arsenic-based antibiotic.

“Shifa is incredibly dedicated,” says Yoshinaga. “She balances her research with many other activities and always seeks to engage more.”

Shifa became involved in this research as part of the First-Year Scholars Program and continued with the Summer Undergraduate Research Program. She has presented her work at several conferences, including the Georgia Undergraduate Research Conference, and is set to present at the National Conference of Undergraduate Research.

Despite her busy schedule, Shifa also leads group study sessions for an introductory psychology class and is a mentor coordinator for the Pre-Health Leadership Council, which helps connect students with mentors to enhance their medical school applications.

Shifa is a participant in the Georgia Rotary Student Program, a scholarship initiative for international students. Originally from Hyderabad, India, KSU was her first experience in the U.S.

“Moving to the U.S. was a big step for me. It was challenging at first because everything was so new. But I adapted and now feel I’m doing well,” she reflects.

Recognized for her outstanding efforts, Shifa received the Barbara M. and Donald L. Thomas Peace Award for exemplifying the Rotary motto of “Service Above Self.” Her application was supported by Michelle Miles, director of KSU’s Office of National and International Scholarships and Fellowships.

“Shifa stands out with her determination and intelligence,” Miles says. “She represents the exceptional potential of KSU students on a national and international level.”

Shifa’s dedication also shines through her volunteer work at Mosaic Health Center, a clinic that serves underserved individuals, especially refugees. She began as a medical assistant and now volunteers as a medical scribe.

“In the long run, I aim to improve healthcare access for those in need,” she states.

— Story by Amber Perry

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