UTHealth Houston - Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences

A welcoming microbiology lab introduced Jennifer Walker, PhD, to biomedical research and set her on a path to becoming a faculty member at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Houston Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences. Today, she draws on that experience to mentor the next generation of scientists, build collaborations across the Texas Medical Center, and encourage her students to pursue their own questions.

An unexpected turn led Genetics and Epigenetics PhD student Josh Lindenberger to cancer research at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Houston Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, where collaboration, professional development, and involvement in his program and student organizations are shaping his experience. The Texas Medical Center broadens his scientific network and opportunities, while Houston offers inspiration of a different kind—including Impressionist art, which reminds him that, much like research, sometimes you have to step back to see how the pieces come together.

August's Paper of the Month highlights research by student Mo-Fan (Elena) Huang and collaborators at UT MD Anderson UTHealth Houston Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, who combined artificial intelligence and stem cell biology to develop an optimized approach to producing mature, functional liver cells while identifying key genetic regulators that drive liver development. Published in the Journal of Biological Chemistry, the study could improve disease modeling, drug testing, and regenerative medicine.

Weeks of preparation culminated in a day of scientific discovery, collaboration, and celebration at the Graduate School’s 10th annual Graduate Student Research Day. Attendees experienced the outstanding work of 69 student finalists through oral presentations, poster sessions, and elevator pitch competitions. Congratulations to this year's winners, and thank you to the students, faculty, judges, sponsors and staff who made the day possible.

Graduate School Distinguished Alumna Yolanda (Yoli) Sanchez, PhD '93, reflects on how her journey from graduate student to director and CEO of the University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center transformed her definition of success — from making discoveries to helping others achieve their own.

Communications Assistant Lauren Nguyen helps keep the Graduate School community informed and connected through her work to showcase the people who make the Graduate School a vibrant and welcoming community. Learn about her journey from student communications worker at the University of Houston to her role at the Graduate School.