October 30, 2025 | Erin Bluvas, bluvase@sc.edu
After studying chemistry at Punjab Agricultural University in India, Khushboo emerged with an enhanced understanding of water treatment methods. She was particularly well versed in the removal of heavy metal ions and dyes from wastewater.
“My practical experience with wastewater treatment made me aware of water pollution challenges and inspired my interest in environmental sustainability and its connection to public health,” Khushboo says.
She decided to build on this foundation by pursuing a Ph.D. focused on air quality and chose the Arnold School’s Department of Environmental Health Sciences to work with an expert in the field, Eric Vejerano. As Vejerano’s graduate research assistant, Khushboo works alongside the associate professor to conduct innovative studies that combine environmental chemistry with air quality research. In addition to Vejerano, she found mentors in ENHS chair Geoff Scott, former graduate program director Dwayne Porter, and current graduate program director Daniel Kilpatrick.
“They have all played important roles in my academic and professional development,” she says. “Dr. Vejerano not only provides expert guidance and support in my research but also motivates me to apply for different scholarships and other opportunities. Dr. Scott, Dr. Porter, and Dr. Kilpatrick consistently encourage us to pursue scholarships, internships and research projects. Their mentorship has been instrumental in keeping me motivated and informed about valuable opportunities, helping me make the most of my time in the program.”
Khushboo says that joining the department provided the ideal environment, both inspiring and supportive, to advance her academic and research goals. Three years into the program, the doctoral candidate is actively contributing to a research project focused on examining the formation of environmentally persistent free radicals (EPFRs) from the atmospheric oxidation of volatile organic compounds, a project she was drawn to and enthusiastic about from the outset due to its important implications for air quality and public health.
“Understanding if and how much EPFRs form in the atmosphere is critical, as these radicals are potentially long-lasting and may impact air quality and human health,” says Khushboo, who is also working on related projects involving the formation of persistent free radicals from manufactured sources such as sunscreens (learn more about this work when she presents at USC’s Three Minute Thesis (3MT) Competition in November) and even biogenic materials like leaves. “My research aims to provide key insights into emerging atmospheric processes that could influence public and environmental health outcomes, highlighting the significance of monitoring and mitigating air pollution.”
After completing her degree, Khushboo plans to continue this research within the environmental sciences or public health fields. She believes the program has prepared her for these roles by providing her with advanced knowledge, research skills, hands-on experience, interdisciplinary training and mentorship that are essential for tackling complex air pollution challenges.
Khushboo’s work was recently recognized with an International Student Excellence Scholarship from USC’s Office of International Student and Scholar Support. The Norman J. Arnold Doctoral Fellow will use the $500 award to further support her academic pursuits.
“As an international student from India, adjusting to the culture at the USC has been a unique and enriching experience,” Khushboo says of both the campus and the urban amenities offered by the state’s capital city. “The student culture here is vibrant and welcoming, with many opportunities to engage in academic and social activities. My experience has broadened my perspective and helped me grow both personally and academically.”
