HomeAchievements
Picture of the author

MOHAMMAD ATIQUR RAHMAN, Ph.D. Candidate

B.Pharm, MSc (Pharmaceutical Science)

Houston, Texas

rahman.atiq90@gmail.com

About me

I am a passionate and driven Ph.D. candidate in Pharmacology with over six years of combined research experience in cell and molecular biology, pharmacology, and pharmacometrics. My expertise spans in-vivo and in-vitro platforms, integrating translational research with advanced molecular techniques and pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics (PKPD) modeling to advance drug discovery and development. My doctoral research focuses on unraveling complex biological mechanisms, particularly in cardiovascular and renal health, with a strong emphasis on identifying therapeutic targets and optimizing treatment strategies. I employ cutting-edge techniques such as mammalian cell culture, qPCR, ELISA, Western blotting, immunofluorescence, flow cytometry, cell transfection, cloning, and confocal microscopy to drive impactful research.

My earlier work in neuropharmacology and behavioral neuroscience involved investigating the pharmacological mechanisms of μ-opioid analgesics, resulting in multiple peer-reviewed publications and contributing to securing $2 million in NIH funding. This experience showcased my ability to lead high-impact translational science projects and further solidified my strong foundation in personalized medicine.

I excel in collaborative, multidisciplinary environments, leveraging strong problem-solving skills and meticulous attention to detail to deliver meaningful results. My passion for integrating experimental data with PKPD and PBPK modeling has driven me to develop proficiency in advanced pharmacokinetic tools such as Phoenix WinNonlin, GastroPlus, and PK-Sim. Through certified training in Non-Compartmental Analysis (NCA), PKPD modeling, and population pharmacokinetics (popPK) at Certara University, I have honed my ability to evaluate and interpret complex preclinical data with precision, streamlining drug development processes and enhancing therapeutic accuracy.

My overarching goal is to bridge fundamental research with clinical applications, driving innovation at the dynamic intersection of pharmacology, molecular biology, and pharmacometrics. I am deeply committed to advancing therapeutic strategies, promoting personalized medicine, and contributing to the next generation of impactful research in drug discovery and development.

Skill Highlights

Laboratory Techniques

  • Mammalian Cell Culture
  • Immunofluorescence
  • Quantitative PCR (qPCR)
  • Western Blotting
  • SDS page
  • ELISA
  • Flow Cytometry
  • Cell Transfection
  • Cloning
  • Protein purification
  • Electron Spin Resonance Spectroscopy
  • Confocal Microscopy
  • Nephrectomy Procedures
  • Pharmacokinetic Analysis

  • Non-compartmental Analysis (NCA)
  • Nonlinear Mixed-Effects Modeling (NLME)
  • Population Pharmacokinetics (PK) Modeling
  • Phoenix WinNonlin and Phoenix NLME
  • PBPK Modeling & ADME Prediction
  • Computer Skills

  • Microsoft Office Suite(Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
  • Software Skills

  • Phoenix WinNonlin
  • Phoenix NLME
  • GastroPlus
  • PK-sim
  • Simcyp
  • R
  • Python
  • GraphPad Prism
  • FlowJo
  • ImageJ
  • Image-Pro Plus
  • Career of 13 years

    Doctoral Student

    University of Houston, (August 2020 - Present)

    Work Details:

    Molecular and Biochemical Techniques:

    Demonstrated expertise in a wide range of molecular and biochemical techniques to enhance cell-based assays, including mammalian cell culture, quantitative PCR (qPCR), Western blotting, ELISA, cell transfection, immunofluorescence, protein purification, cloning, flow cytometry, and confocal microscopy. These advanced tools have been instrumental in producing reliable and reproducible results in various research projects, contributing to the development of innovative methodologies in experimental pharmacology.

    Molecular and Biochemical Techniques

    Demonstrated expertise in a wide range of molecular and biochemical techniques to enhance cell-based assays, including mammalian cell culture, quantitative PCR (qPCR), Western blotting, ELISA, cell transfection, immunofluorescence, protein purification, cloning, flow cytometry, and confocal microscopy. These advanced tools have been instrumental in producing reliable and reproducible results in various research projects, contributing to the development of innovative methodologies in experimental pharmacology.

    Nicotine-Induced Glomerular Damage

    Investigated the molecular mechanisms of nicotine-induced glomerular damage, identifying two critical pathways responsible for kidney cell damage. Proposed and validated therapeutic options through rigorous in-vivo and in-vitro experiments, offering new insights into nicotine-related renal injury. This work provided significant advancements in understanding the impact of chronic nicotine exposure and opened avenues for potential therapeutic strategies.

    TMAO-Induced Cardiovascular and Endothelial Damage

    Led research on the effects of trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) on cardiovascular and endothelial health, with a focus on membrane raft redox signaling pathways. Uncovered key molecular mechanisms involved in TMAO-induced damage and explored therapeutic interventions to mitigate its effects. This research has deepened understanding of the relationship between gut microbial metabolites and cardiovascular diseases, contributing to the field of cardio-metabolic health.

    Surgical Expertise

    Performed nephrectomy procedures with precision, showcasing a high level of expertise in anesthetic administration, surgical intervention, and post-operative care. These skills ensured successful recovery outcomes and accurate experimental results, demonstrating proficiency in handling complex surgical techniques for research purposes.

    Scientific Communication and Documentation

    Authored several high-quality manuscripts by conducting comprehensive data analysis, statistical processing, and figure generation. Maintained meticulous laboratory records to ensure data integrity and reproducibility. Effectively communicated research findings through oral and poster presentations at national and international conferences, fostering collaboration and advancing knowledge dissemination in the scientific community.

    Graduate Teaching Assistant

    University of Houston, (August 2020 - Present)

    Work Details:

    As a Teaching Assistant for Second Professional Year (P2) PharmD courses, I have been responsible for ensuring seamless course organization for both instructors and students. My role includes collaborating with faculty members on exam grading and enhancing the overall effectiveness of course delivery. Additionally, I offer academic support to students, helping them master key concepts and excel in their studies.

    Graduate Research Assistant

    Rowan University (August 2018 - May 2020)

    Work Details:

  • Managed and executed research focused on the behavioral and pharmacological aspects of the novel molecule mu-opioid analgesic IBNtxA, contributing to the assessment of its potential abuse liability and discriminative stimulus effects.
  • Led a significant project that uncovered important interactions between α2GABAA, α3GABAA, and μ-opioid receptor-mediated signals, highlighting the potential of combination therapy for treating pain-related disorders.
  • Developed and implemented innovative research strategies that provided compelling evidence to support advancements in therapeutic approaches for pain management.
  • My research findings established a strong foundation and were fundamental in securing approximately $2M in NIH grant funding, reflecting my commitment to advancing innovative and impactful research in the field of pharmacotherapy..
  • Independently composed manuscripts for submission, encompassing raw data analysis, statistical processing, figure creation, and drafting all sections of the manuscripts for review.
  • Graduate Teaching Assistant

    Rowan University (January 2019 - December 2019)

    Work Details:

    Performed as primary instructor of the General Chemistry lab, delivering course content, facilitating laboratory setups, and ensuring a safe and effective learning environment for students. Provided individualized support to students in mastering key concepts, addressed problem-solving challenges, and managed exam grading, fostering engagement and promoting academic excellence.

    Product Management Specialist

    Globe Pharmaceutical Group of Companies Limited (February 2013 - July 2017)

    Work Details:

  • Led the development and optimization of pharmaceutical products, applying scientific principles to transition initial concepts into commercially viable solutions.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams, including R&D, quality assurance, and manufacturing, to integrate scientific findings into product development.
  • Developed and reviewed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) informed by experimental data for drug development and testing protocols.
  • Ensured compliance with regulatory guidelines and maintained high-quality control standards through evidence-based approaches.
  • Evaluated raw materials, active ingredients, and excipients using analytical methods to meet industry and regulatory requirements.
  • Designed and implemented validated protocols for product testing, ensuring strict adherence to quality and regulatory standards.
  • Student Internship

    Healthcare Pharmaceuticals Limited (May 2011 - August 2011)

    Work Details:

    Managed inventory levels, processed purchase orders, and contributed innovative ideas to product development, leading to the successful creation of new pharmaceutical products. Oversaw manufacturing processes, ensured quality control and regulatory compliance, and optimized workflow to enhance production efficiency and meet high-quality standards.

    Publications

    1. Buechler, H. M., Sumi, M., Madhuranthakam, I. M., Donegan, C., DiGiorgio, F., Jr, Acosta, A. A., Uribe, S., Rahman, M. A., Sorbello, A., Fischer, B. D., & Keck, T. M. (2024) The CB1 negative allosteric modulator PSNCBAM-1 reduces ethanol self-administration via a nonspecific hypophagic effect. Pharmacology, biochemistry, and behavior, 240, 173776. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pbb.2024.173776, .view 2. Rahman, M. A., Keck, T. M., Poe, M. M., Sharmin, D., Cook, J. M., & Fischer, B. D. (2021) Synergistic antihyperalgesic and antinociceptive effects of morphine and methyl 8-ethynyl-6-(pyridin-2-yl)-4H-benzo[f]imidazo[1,5- a][1,4]diazepine-3-carboxylate (MP-III-024): a positive allosteric modulator at α2GABAA and α3GABAA receptors. Psychopharmacology, 10.1007/s00213-021-05791-1., .view 3. Islam, A., Rahman, M. A., Brenner, M. B., Moore, A., Kellmyer, A., Buechler, H. M., DiGiorgio, F., Verchio, V. R., McCracken, L., Sumi, M., Hartley, R., Lizza, J. R., Moura-Letts, G., Fischer, B. D., & Keck, T. M. (2020) Abuse Liability, Anti-Nociceptive, and Discriminative Stimulus Properties of IBNtxA. ACS pharmacology & translational science, 3(5), 907–920, .view 4. Rahman, Mohammad., (2020) Searching for new analgesics without addiction risks, .view 5. Ferdous, Md., Rahman, Mehedi., Rahman, Mohammad., Ahmed, Al., Rana, Md. Jahed., Rahman, Md., Saha, Chinmoy., Reza, Hossain. (2017) POTENTIAL IN-VITRO CARDIOPROTECTIVE ASSAY AND PHYTOCHEMICALS SCREENING OF EUPHORBIA HIRTA (LNN). World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research. 7523. 92-99. 10.20959/wjpr20174-8105., .view 6. Ferdous, Md., Mehedi, Rahman., Zaman, Antara., Zahid, Md., Rahman, Mohammad., Imran, Al., Khan, Eshak., (2016) ANTICANCER POTENTIAL MEDICINAL PLANTS EXISTING IN BANGLADESH: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW. World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research. 5. 317. 10.20959/wjpr20169-7592., .view 7. Ferdous, Md., Rahman, Mehedi., Rahman, Mohammad., Ahmed, Al., Khan, Rana., Rahman, Md., Reza, Hossain. (2016) Phytochemical Screening and Ex-Vivo Cardioprotective Assay of Euphorbia hirta (L). Cellular & Molecular Medicine: Open access. 03. 10.21767/2573-5365.100024., .view 8. Ferdous, Md., Rahman, Mohammad., Ahmed, Al., Rahman, Mehedi., Zaman, Antara. (2016) Present Prospectus of Malnutrition in Bangladesh: A Comprehensive Review. International Journal of Pharmacology, Phytochemistry and Ethnomedicine. 5. 69-73. 10.18052/www.scipress.com/IJPPE.5.69., .view

    Publications [In-preparation]

    1. Rahman, Mohammad A., Datta, Sayantap., Koka, Saisudha., Boini, Krishna M., Membrane raft redox signaling pathway mediates gut microbial metabolite TMAO-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation and cardiovascular dysfunction.

    2. Rahman, Mohammad A., Datta, Sayantap., Koka, Saisudha., Boini, Krishna M., Membrane raft redox signaling pathway mediates gut microbial metabolite TMAO-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation and cardiovascular dysfunction.

    3. Rahman, Mohammad A., Koka, Saisudha., Zhang, Yang., Boini, Krishna M., Role of acid sphingomyelinase in nicotine-induced podocyte injury.

    4. Rahman, Mohammad A., Koka, Saisudha., Boini, Krishna M., Effects of Membrane Raft Redox Signaling in Gut Microbial Metabolite TMAO-Induced NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation and Podocyte Injury.

    Certifications and Specialized Training

    I have received comprehensive certification and training in advanced pharmacokinetics, physiologically based modeling, and clinical research methodologies, equipping me with the skills and expertise to contribute effectively to drug development and translational research.

    Pharmacokinetic Data Analysis:

    I am certified by Certara University in Non-compartmental Analysis (NCA), Nonlinear Mixed-Effects Modeling (NLME), Population Pharmacokinetics (popPK) Modeling, and PKPD Modeling. Proficient in using tools such as Phoenix WinNonlin and Phoenix NLME, I have developed advanced expertise in analyzing and interpreting complex pharmacokinetic data to optimize therapeutic strategies and improve drug efficacy.

    Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic (PBPK) Modeling:

    With certification from Simulation Plus, I have honed my skills in PBPK modeling using GastroPlus to predict drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME). This training has enabled me to design and optimize dosage forms, support formulation development, and streamline the drug development process.

    Clinical Research Training:

    I have completed two NIH courses, Principles of Clinical Pharmacology and Principles and Practice of Clinical Research, which provided in-depth knowledge of drug development pipelines, clinical pharmacology, and clinical trial methodologies. This training has enhanced my understanding of regulatory frameworks and strategies for advancing novel therapeutics from bench to bedside.

    Through these certifications, I have developed a robust foundation in pharmacokinetics, PBPK modeling, and clinical research, empowering me to integrate experimental and computational approaches in drug discovery and development effectively.

    ©2024

    by Mohammad Atiqur Rahman