Q&A with Dr. Shekher Mohan: Celebrating the Grand Opening of the BHSU-BUCOM Research Laboratory

The recent grand opening of the Baptist Health Sciences University (BHSU) - College of Medicine (BUCOM) Research Laboratory represents a major milestone in the university’s continued growth and commitment to scientific advancement. To explore the significance of this new space, we spoke with Dr. Shekher Mohan, Associate Dean of Research, about the lab’s mission, the opportunities it offers to students and faculty, and the exciting vision for its future.

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1. What does the grand opening of the research laboratory signify for the future of research at BHSU-BUCOM?

Dr. Mohan:
The grand opening of the BHSU-BUCOM Research Laboratory marks a pivotal moment in our institution’s growth. It signifies our unwavering commitment to advancing scientific discovery, fostering innovation, and equipping our students and faculty with the tools they need to address in today’s most pressing health challenges. This milestone represents the beginning of a new chapter—one where research becomes a central and thriving pillar of the BUCOM identity.

This milestone represents the beginning of a new chapter

2. What types of research opportunities can students and faculty now explore with the opening of this lab?

Dr. Mohan:
With our new research laboratory, students and faculty can now engage in a wide range of projects—from molecular biology and biomedical research to translational health science and population health studies. The lab is designed to support both hypothesis-driven investigations and collaborative interdisciplinary work. Whether exploring cellular responses to disease, testing novel therapeutics, or analyzing health disparities, the lab provides a hands-on environment where innovation and mentorship can thrive.

3. What are some long-term goals or upcoming projects for the Office of Research?

Dr. Mohan:
One of our long-term goals is to build a sustainable, collaborative research ecosystem that supports both faculty scholarship and student-led inquiry. We aim to secure external funding for high-impact projects, develop a robust pipeline for student research training, and expand our community-engaged research initiatives. Upcoming projects include launching an intramural grant program, hosting faculty development workshops, and supporting pilot studies that align with national research priorities in osteopathic and primary care medicine.

4. How do you envision this lab contributing to national or global conversations in health care research?

Dr. Mohan:
Our research lab is not just a physical space—it’s a catalyst for contribution. I envision our faculty and students generating data and insights that can influence clinical practice, inform policy, and contribute to the broader scientific dialogue around equitable, evidence-based care. As a school committed to serving underserved communities, our work has the potential to spotlight regional health challenges while also offering scalable solutions with global relevance.

Our research lab is not just a physical space

5. Can you share the vision behind the Office of Research and what you hope it will accomplish?

Dr. Mohan:
The vision behind the Office of Research is to cultivate a vibrant culture of curiosity, inquiry, and impact. We aim to empower faculty and students to ask bold questions, pursue meaningful research, and translate findings into solutions that improve health outcomes. Ultimately, we hope to position BUCOM as a leader in community-engaged, mission-driven research that reflects the values of osteopathic medicine and serves both local and global populations.