The lab is home to the division’s Cardio-Renal research program, which operates a large portfolio of studies spanning clinical trials, clinical observational research, epidemiologic studies to translational drug discovery. This involves more than 20 active projects with about 14 staff and trainees, including undergraduate students, graduate students, clinicians and PhD fellows.
And Narayanan runs the whole show.
Principal Investigator Kenneth Lim, MD, PhD, said Narayanan’s role involves working with research units, cores and clinical services across the institution and meeting the demands of administrative, compliance, supervisory and regulatory affairs. Additionally, she plays a key role in fostering the group’s emphasis on multidisciplinary collaborations with projects that draw from both a local and international talent pool.
She demonstrated exemplary dedication, commitment and excellence to supporting this research program.
“It is the consensus of all who have worked with Gayatri that she always goes above and beyond to care for her staff and students, and to meet their needs,” Lim said. “She has become a key individual who has worked tirelessly behind the scenes, developing and maintaining operational infrastructure to support our growing Cardio-Renal research program at Indiana University School of Medicine. And in parallel, she has become a well-loved figure of support, always welcoming, warm and supportive that is reflective of the constitutional values that Indiana University strives for in every employee.”
A Q&A with Gayatri Narayanan
How long have you been in your current role? How long have you been at IU?
I have been in my current role for about a year, and I have been at IU for a little over 4 years. I never expected to be in a management role. The last 10 years of my career have been in bench science and research. This past year has been my chance to branch out to something different. It has helped me realize that I have other useful skills!
What do you enjoy most about your work?
I enjoy being able to have a hand in every project that goes on in our team. We juggle many projects at once and there is always something new to learn.
Please share a bit about the people at work who inspire, challenge and motivate you.
Our PI, Dr. Ken Lim, is very positive and inspiring in everything that he does, which sets the tone for the rest of us in the team! I'm also grateful to work with a very hardworking, intelligent, and (most importantly) friendly team!
How do you like to spend your time when you're not at work?
I visited Sweden and Finland over the summer and it was beautiful, but the thing that stood out the most to me was the efficiency of their public transportation! I'm hoping we can say the same about Indianapolis in the future.