Nikhil Sahajpal Appointed Assistant Director at Greenwood Genetic Center

News Summary

The Greenwood community celebrates the appointment of Nikhil Sahajpal as the new Assistant Director at the Greenwood Genetic Center. With extensive training in Laboratory Genetics and Genomics, Dr. Sahajpal aims to enhance clinical diagnostic testing in South Carolina. His contributions in molecular and cytogenetic methodologies, particularly during the pandemic, underline his commitment to advancing genetic research. This appointment is seen as a significant milestone for the center and the future of clinical diagnostics in the region.

Exciting News from Greenwood: Nikhil Sahajpal Takes a Major Step in Genetic Research!

Greenwood, South Carolina, is buzzing with enthusiasm as one of its brightest stars in the field of genetic research has just been appointed as an Assistant Director at the esteemed Greenwood Genetic Center (GGC). This marks a significant milestone not just for the center, but also for the future of clinical diagnostics in South Carolina!

From Fellowship to Leadership

Nikhil Sahajpal recently wrapped up a comprehensive fellowship in Laboratory Genetics and Genomics (LGG) at GGC. His impressive journey began halfway across the world in India, where he earned his PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences. His academic prowess didn’t stop there, as he further honed his skills during a post-doctoral fellowship at Augusta University in Georgia.

While at Augusta, he made significant contributions to the realm of molecular and cytogenetic methodologies, focusing on essential areas such as prenatal, pediatric, and oncology applications. One of his standout achievements was playing a vital role in establishing approved diagnostic testing and research for COVID-19. It is this wealth of experience that makes his recent appointment all the more exciting!

Exceptional Contributions to GGC

Dr. Sahajpal began his fellowship at GGC in the summer of 2022, with backing from a specialized grant offered by the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) Foundation. Throughout his time at GGC, he has engaged deeply in molecular and cytogenetic diagnostic tests, helping to develop and validate optical genome mapping, a revolutionary technique in genetic testing.

His training and contributions were not just noteworthy but groundbreaking! His work in innovative testing protocols is expected to pave the way for new advances in diagnostic laboratories. Mike Friez, the Director of GGC’s Diagnostic Laboratories, has acknowledged Dr. Sahajpal’s exceptional training, indicating that his input has had a substantial impact on the center’s capabilities.

Commitment Towards Progress

With his new role, Dr. Sahajpal expresses his dedication to taking clinical diagnostic testing in South Carolina to new heights. He is grateful for the opportunity provided by the ACMG Foundation and is poised to lead his team towards avenues of discovery that could potentially reshape genetic diagnostics.

Legacy of Training Excellence

Interestingly, the LGG training program at GGC has a long-standing reputation for excellence, established in 1989. Over the years, it has graduated 43 fellows and residents, many of whom have gone on to shape their own careers in clinical genetics and laboratory leadership.

As Dr. Sahajpal embarks on this new journey, the Greenwood community can take pride in supporting a remarkable individual committed to enhancing genetic health care.

Looking Ahead

As we celebrate Nikhil Sahajpal’s new position, it’s clear that his passion for innovation and quality in genetic research will benefit not just the Greenwood Genetic Center but the entire community of South Carolina. The future of genetic diagnostics looks brighter than ever!