Hi Vaccie Star, Meet Tariq Jacobs
I hold the following qualifications:
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Biochemistry
Master’s in Biochemistry (MSc)
PhD in Molecular Biology (focus on cellular mechanisms and disease pathways)
About me
I’m Tariq Jacobs, a passionate biochemist with a deep interest in how molecular biology can help us better understand and treat diseases. I’ve always been fascinated by the intricate processes within cells and how they impact human health. Over the years, I’ve worked on various research projects focused on cellular mechanisms, disease pathways, and drug development.
In addition to my work in the lab, I enjoy mentoring students who are interested in the sciences, helping them navigate their academic and career paths. I believe that collaboration and continuous learning are key to scientific progress, and I strive to inspire those around me to never stop asking questions. When I’m not in the lab, I enjoy exploring new technologies, reading about emerging science, and giving back to the community.
My career journey
My career journey started with a deep curiosity about the molecular processes that govern life. I pursued a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry, which gave me a solid foundation in the fundamentals of chemistry, biology, and molecular science. It was during my undergraduate years that I first became fascinated by how cellular mechanisms impact health, sparking my interest in biomedical research.
After completing my BSc, I went on to pursue a Master’s in Biochemistry, where I specialized in cellular signaling pathways and their role in disease development. This opened my eyes to the potential of biotechnology and genomics to change how we approach medical treatments.
For my PhD, I focused on molecular biology, diving deeper into how cellular mechanisms affect diseases like cancer and neurodegenerative disorders. This research provided valuable insights into potential therapeutic targets and ways to better understand complex biological systems.
Throughout my career, I’ve worked in both academic and industry settings, collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to develop innovative solutions for healthcare. I’ve also had the opportunity to work on various projects related to drug development, genetic research, and biotechnology. My experiences have reinforced my belief in the power of scientific collaboration and cutting-edge research to improve human health.
As I continue my career, I’m excited to see how emerging technologies like CRISPR gene editing and AI in drug discovery will shape the future of medical science. I also enjoy mentoring the next generation of scientists, helping them find their path in the fascinating world of biochemistry and molecular biology.
My mentorship approach
My mentorship approach is rooted in collaborative learning and hands-on experience. I believe that the best way to truly grasp the complexities of science is through a combination of practical application and theoretical knowledge. Here’s how I approach mentorship:
Understanding Individual Goals: I begin by understanding the mentee’s interests, academic strengths, and career aspirations. This helps me tailor the mentorship to their specific needs, whether they’re looking to build technical skills, improve research methodologies, or explore potential career paths in science.
Fostering Critical Thinking: I encourage mentees to think critically about the research
My mentorship preference
I prefer mentoring university students and young professionals who are at the beginning stages of their careers in the sciences. This stage is crucial for developing practical skills, understanding complex concepts, and making informed decisions about their future career paths.
However, I am also open to mentoring high school learners who are passionate about science and interested in pursuing careers in fields like biochemistry, molecular biology, or biotechnology. I’m flexible and can adapt my mentorship approach depending on the level of experience and the specific needs of the mentee.
My availability
I am available for mentorship during the following times:
Weekdays: 4 PM to 7 PM
Saturdays: 9 AM to 12 PM
Sundays: Flexible, depending on availability
I understand the importance of flexibility, so I’m happy to adjust my availability as needed to accommodate mentees’ schedules. Sessions can be scheduled in advance to ensure that we have focused, productive time together.
Why I want to be a mentor
I signed up to be a mentor because I’m passionate about sharing knowledge and helping others navigate their careers in the sciences. Throughout my own journey, I’ve benefited from the guidance of experienced mentors, and I believe it’s important to pay that forward. Mentorship allows me to contribute to the growth of the next generation of scientists and support those who are just starting their careers.
I also find immense satisfaction in helping mentees develop critical skills and confidence in their abilities. By sharing my experiences in biochemistry and molecular biology, I hope to inspire and guide mentees toward making informed decisions about their careers and contributing to advancements in science.