Needhi Bhalla

Hometown: New York, New York

@NeehiBhalla

I’m a: cell biologist and geneticist

My research: I study how cells make sure that the correct amount of DNA ends up in every cell after cell division. An incorrect amount of DNA in cells is associated with cancer, birth defects, miscarriages and infertility. Therefore, understanding how this happens correctly is important for human health.

What do you typically eat for breakfast? just coffee

What is your favorite snack or candy? french fries and a cocktail

What is your favorite spice? cumin

What is one food you absolutely dislike? okra

What is one of your favorite dishes? There is this amazing swordfish stew that you prep the night before, with cherry tomatoes, onions, olives, garlic and olive oil. It's super simple and you cook it for about an hour at a bare simmer and it makes this stew that is so much more delicious than it's individual parts. It's perfect for dinner parties and just about the tastiest thing ever.

My 4 dream scientist dinner companions:

Chanda Prescott-Weinstein
Raychelle Burks
Beronda Montgomery
Stephani Page