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Genomics Gave Me Questions, Proteomics Gave Me Answers

Sabiya Khan, THSTI

From Genes to Proteins: My Journey Through the Omics Universe

My interest in genomics began early, during my graduation. I was always curious about genes, DNA, and how small mutations could impact the whole system. That curiosity stayed with me. After college, I worked for some time in a clinical lab, where I handled PBMCs, cord blood samples, performed RT-PCRs and ELISAs. The experience was valuable, but I didn’t feel very connected to the work. Also, during this time, there was a gap between my B.Sc. and M.Sc. and honestly, that gap made me feel like I had messed up my future. I used to think, maybe I’ve lost my chance, maybe I won’t be able to come back to science properly. But at the same time, I would remind myself I gained experience, I learned something, so maybe it wasn't fully wasted. Now, I don’t feel the same regret I used to. And maybe one day, when I achieve something big, that regret will disappear completely.

Later, I pursued a Master’s in Microbiology, and my dissertation was in functional genomics. That’s where I felt truly at home. I enjoyed the work deeply from cloning to running gels, planning experiments to troubleshooting results. It was intense, but I loved it. Genomics gave me the kind of satisfaction I had always looked for in science.

After completing my Master’s, I joined THSTI again this time in a Proteomics Core Lab. To be honest, proteomics was completely new to me. I hadn’t studied it much, and I wasn’t confident at all in the beginning. The lab was very different we were working with all kinds of samples: bacteria, human cell lines, and clinical specimens. Techniques like LC-MS, SDS-PAGE, and various sample prep methods were part of everyday routine. Everything felt unfamiliar at first. I still remember one day when my experiment took longer than expected, and I was stuck late in the lab. I felt exhausted and overwhelmed, and a part of me thought maybe this is not for me. But slowly, things started to change.

I began to understand the logic behind sample preparation, how different workflows are designed, how mass spectrometry works, and how important every small step is in proteomics. I learned to plan my experiments better and manage time more efficiently. Over time, I gained confidence. My work has mostly been wet lab-based, but now I’ve also developed an interest in data analysis. I want to learn how to interpret the data I generate, because in proteomics, generating results is only half the story understanding them is where the real insight lies.

“Peaks, Valleys & Mass Spectra: My Story of Switching from Genomics to Proteomics.”

This journey from functional genomics to mass spectrometry-based proteomics has taught me that you don’t always need to have a perfect plan. Sometimes, unexpected turns lead you to better opportunities.

Looking back, I feel proud of how far I’ve come. Everything I’ve learned whether in clinical work, genomics, or proteomics has been part of my experience at THSTI, and I’m thankful for that. The environment here has helped me grow step by step, with the support of mentors and colleagues.

“Humans can do anything if they truly want to.”

I’m still learning, still evolving and now, proteomics feels like a language I’ve started to speak fluently. And I look forward to learning more every day.