I am Srujana Mohanty, a PhD candidate in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Minnesota, where my research focuses on the development of non-hormonal male contraceptives. My work centers on lead optimization and in vitro evaluation of potential drug candidates. I completed both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in chemistry at IISER Kolkata. During a summer internship at the University of Oxford in the Department of Pharmacology, I developed a strong interest in drug discovery and development, an interest that continues to shape my research trajectory. Outside the lab, I enjoy cooking and watching television series.
This research develops a non-hormonal male contraceptive by blocking two sperm proteins, Catsper and SLO3, that enable hyperactivated “power swimming” required for fertilization. By designing molecules that inhibit these proteins, the project aims to create a safe, reversible contraceptive option that avoids hormonal side effects.