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 eleven years of research and professional experience spanning cell and molecular biology, pharmacology, biopharmaceutics, and pharmacometrics. My expertise combines in-vivo and in-vitro platforms with advanced cell and molecular biology techniques, physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling, and pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics (PKPD) modeling to advance drug discovery and development. My doctoral research centers on cardiovascular and renal health, unraveling complex biological mechanisms, identifying therapeutic targets, and optimizing treatment strategies using techniques such as mammalian cell culture, qPCR, ELISA, Western blotting, flow cytometry, and confocal microscopy.
In addition to my academic endeavors, I recently completed advanced training at the Florida Winter School, where I gained hands-on experience in PBPK modeling, drug-drug interaction analysis, and applications for special populations such as pediatrics and patients with hepatic and renal impairments. This training enhanced my expertise in integrating in-vitro, in-vivo, and in- silico data to streamline drug development processes and improve predictive capabilities.
Previously, my work in neuropharmacology focused on the pharmacological mechanisms of μ- opioid analgesics, leading to peer-reviewed publications and contributions to $2 million in NIH funding. This experience reinforced my ability to lead translational science projects and advance personalized medicine initiatives.
Certified in Non-Compartmental Analysis (NCA), PKPD modeling, and population pharmacokinetics (popPK) through Certara University, I am proficient in pharmacokinetic tools such as Phoenix WinNonlin, GastroPlus, Simcyp, and PK-Sim. I thrive in collaborative, multidisciplinary environments, leveraging strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail to translate experimental data into actionable insights.
My overarching goal is to bridge fundamental research with clinical applications, advancing therapeutic strategies and driving innovation at the intersection of pharmacology, biopharmaceutics, and pharmacometrics.
Skill Highlights
Laboratory Techniques
Pharmacokinetic Analysis
Computer Skills
Software Skills
Career Highlights
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.
Florida Winter School on Modeling and Simulation in PK/PD
University of Florida, Orlando, FL (January 2025)
Work Details:
Guided PBPK Model Development:
Conducted hands-on development and verification of physiologically-based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) models using PK- Sim. Worked on real-world case studies to simulate drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion.
Drug-Drug Interaction (DDI) Analysis:
Modeled drug-drug interactions and mechanism-based inhibition through sensitivity and uncertainty analysis. Developed insights to predict and mitigate DDI risks in clinical settings.
Special Population Simulations:
Special Population Simulations: Applied PBPK modeling to evaluate drug behavior in special populations, including pediatrics, and patients with renal or hepatic impairment, enhancing predictions of drug performance across diverse patient groups.
IV and Oral Administration Models:
Developed PBPK models for intravenous (IV) and oral drug administration, focusing on evaluating key pharmacokinetic parameters like absorption, distribution, and clearance.
Integration of QSP Approaches:
Collaborated with domain experts to integrate quantitative systems pharmacology (QSP) methodologies into drug development pipelines, combining in-silico modeling with translational research for improved decision-making.
This immersive training strengthened my expertise in model-informed drug development (MIDD), equipping me with cutting-edge skills to predict drug behavior, optimize dosing strategies, and enhance therapeutic outcomes.
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:
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:
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
Conference Abstracts
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.