
Yi-Heng Hao, Ph.D.
Research Scientist
Ph.D., Institute of Biophysics - Chinese Academy of Sciences
My studies focus on identifying the molecular mediators of Myc-nick-induced migration and metastasis using animal models and organoid cultures. I am broadly interested in multiple aspects of cellular and molecular biology and previously studied the regulations of intracellular trafficking and autism.
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Maria del Carmen Lafita Navarro, Ph.D.
Postdoctoral Researcher
Ph.D., Molecular Biology and Biomedicine, University of Cantabria, Spain
My research focuses on identifying and characterizing metabolic pathways that regulate the progression of Myc-driven cancers in a transcription-independent manner. I joined the Sorrell Lab in February 2016, before that I was a graduate student at the University of Cantabria in Spain. There, I studied the function and regulation of the MXD family of proteins, which are MYC transcriptional antagonists. Outside the lab, I enjoy playing sports, especially Ultimate Frisbee.
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Niranjan Venkateswaran
Research Associate
M.S., Biotechnology, the University of Texas at Dallas
I am investigating the function of Myc-Nick-induced lysine acetylation in cancer cell survival. My research goals are to contribute to an improved understanding of mechanisms involved in chemotherapy resistance. Previously, I worked as a research associate in the Simmons Cancer Center at UTSW, studying the vulnerabilities of KRAS in lung cancer. In my leisure, I enjoy reading books, playing cricket, and soccer.
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Lizbeth Perez-Castro
Graduate Student
B.S., Biology, the University of Puerto Rico at Cayey
I started my Ph.D. at UTSW in 2018 and joined the Sorrell Lab in February 2019. I am interested in understanding the role of the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor (AhR) in the regulation of colon cancer. Outside of the lab, I enjoy playing board games with friends, dancing, and reading.
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Isabella Brown
Graduate Student
B.S., Biochemistry and Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Arizona. My research focuses on understanding nucleolar activity in kidney cancer. My previous research experience focused on Ras and mTORC2 signaling in breast cancer cell migration. In my free time I enjoy reading, kickboxing, traveling, and playing with my cat, Beaker.
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Roy Garcia
Graduate Student
B.S., Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara I am interested in uncovering novel therapeutic targets along the kynurenine pathway in colon cancers. As a MoDTS student, I aim to approach my research with a strong emphasis on clinical/translational application. In my free time, I enjoy working out, volunteering, playing video games, and reading.
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