Black History Month: Q&A With Research Trainee Rasheed Sule, PhD

Editor’s Note: Celebrate Black History Month this February with our Featured Research Trainee, Rasheed Sule, PhD. Dr. Sule earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore and his doctorate in Biochemistry, Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology from the University of California, Davis. He is currently a postdoctoral research fellow in the lab of Liming Pei, PhD at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. In this Q&A, Dr. Sule shares his research and his experiences at CHOP, as well as the importance of recognizing contributions made by Black individuals to science.

What message do you hope people take away from celebrating Black History Month?

I hope more people recognize that Black History Month is an opportunity to honor and celebrate the rich legacy and incredible contributions of Black individuals, both past and present, in science and every other pertinent area in our community. I hope people walk away with a greater appreciation for the struggles, resilience, and triumphs of Black communities. Celebrating Black History Month is also a reminder that there’s still work to be done in creating a world where equality and justice are accessible to all. I want people to recognize the power of collective action, the beauty of diversity, and the importance of acknowledging and learning from history to create a brighter future for the next generation of Black scientists and leaders.

What is a research project you’re working on, and why is it important?

I'm working on a project focused on understanding the pathogenesis and molecular mechanisms involved in the development of a rare disease known as Fontan-associated liver disease (FALD). FALD, marked by hepatic fibrosis, arises as a complication in patients with single-ventricle congenital heart disease who have undergone the Fontan procedure to bypass the lack of two functional heart ventricles. I use single-cell transcriptomics and metabolomics to determine whether novel animal models of FALD mimic the human disease.

This research is important because it seeks to improve our mechanistic understanding of FALD by comparing the newly created animal models with human datasets, revealing novel genes and metabolites that are associated with hepatic fibrogenesis in FALD. The results could lead to the identification and validation of potential therapeutic targets for this disease.

What are some of the most salient training experiences you’ve had at CHOP thus far?

One of the most impactful training experiences I’ve had at CHOP is the privilege of being mentored by Dr. Pei, who has taught me how to approach complex problem solving, work on research projects, and improve grant writing throughout my time here. The opportunity to see how collaborative research directly impacts patients' lives at CHOP has been outstanding for me.

Additionally, I've participated in several training programs organized by the Office of Academic Training and Outreach Programs, such as Cell and Gene Therapy Clinical Training and the CHOP Career Mentoring Program. I’ve met experts from various fields, which not only broadened my perspective but also has given me an opportunity to grow as a scientist. These experiences have helped me develop both my technical and interpersonal skills, allowing me to contribute more effectively to ongoing research efforts.

Aside from research, what do you consider your biggest accomplishment?

One of my biggest achievements as a Black scientist who graduated with a bachelor's degree from a historically black college/university (HBCU) is taking the opportunity to inspire others in my community and within the broader scientific field to dream big. Graduating from an HBCU not only shaped my scientific abilities but also instilled in me a deep sense of gratitude and a responsibility to uplift others. Being able to serve as a mentor and role model for students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, is something I’m incredibly proud of.

I serve as a board member for Du Bois Postdoctoral Circle, which is an organization at Penn that supports the educational, professional, and social growth of Black postdocs. It’s been rewarding to show that there is space for us in science and that our contributions matter. Beyond my research, I aim to make lasting changes by creating pathways for the next generation of Black scientists to follow their dreams without limits.

What do you do for fun when you’re not working?

When I’m not working, I enjoy exploring nature, hiking, cycling, visiting museums, art shows, and traveling around the world to learn about new cultures and languages. I also like weightlifting and yoga. In the future, I would like to be a fitness coach and personal trainer when I’m not in the lab, to help people reach their fitness goals.