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Jun. 18, 2026

Kopchick Fellow Richa Nayak investigates the role of “jumping genes” in stem cells and human disease

Genetics and Epigenetics PhD candidate Richa Nayak is investigating how “jumping genes” — ancient viral sequences embedded in our DNA — are regulated in adult stem cells. These transposons can reactivate with aging and have been linked to cancer, neurodegeneration, and autoimmune disorders. Nayak studies how stem cells keep these elements in check and what happens when control is lost. Her research aims to uncover mechanisms with potential to inform new therapeutic approaches for human disease.

From left: Dean Eric Boerwinkle, PhD; Theresa Tran, MD; Mayor John Whitmire; President Melina R. Kibbe, MD; and Scott Forbes. (Photo by UTHealth Houston)

UTHealth Houston partners with city of Houston to establish new academic health department

UTHealth Houston announced today a partnership with the city of Houston to establish a new academic health department that will strengthen the region’s public health workforce, expand hands-on training opportunities, and deepen collaboration between academic experts and city health leaders.

Elvis Parada pictured in head shot

Meet the Staff: Elvis Parada

As Director of Student Affairs and Admissions, Elvis Parada helps guide prospective students through the admissions process while supporting the programs, events, and experiences that enrich student life at the UT MD Anderson UTHealth Houston Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences.

Eckel-Mahan delivering her speech standing on a podium at the 2026 Commencement ceremony.

Kristin Eckel-Mahan, PhD, recognized by students for teaching that inspires curiosity

Selected by Graduate School students, Kristin Eckel-Mahan, PhD, received the 2026 John P. McGovern Award for Outstanding Teaching, recognizing her ability to create a learning environment that encourages curiosity, critical thinking, collaboration, and scientific growth.

Kaylene Lu advances glioblastoma research while growing as a scientific leader

Kaylene Lu advances glioblastoma research while growing as a scientific leader

Fifth-year PhD student Kaylene Lu is advancing research in glioblastoma — one of the most aggressive forms of brain cancer — while building leadership experience through fellowships, research...

Two people standing beside a UTHealth Houston Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences banner with MD Anderson Cancer Center branding

Rolando Vedia earns PhD, helps grow the Therapeutics and Pharmacology Program along the way

After first discovering UT MD Anderson UTHealth Houston Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences as a summer student, Rolando Vedia returns to the stage years later to earn his PhD. His journey through the...

From training to patient advocacy: Jessica Scarlett to serve as first genetic counselor at children’s hospital

From training to patient advocacy: Jessica Scarlett to serve as first genetic counselor at children’s hospital

After training in the Genetic Counseling program and conducting research on prenatal care for spina bifida, Jessica Scarlett is ready to expand access to genetic counseling services in Texas. Learn more...

Making an impact behind the scenes: Erica Leday receives 2026 Melva S. Ramsay Award

Making an impact behind the scenes: Erica Leday receives 2026 Melva S. Ramsay Award

Known as a “silent hero” by her colleagues, Erica Leday, senior administrative coordinator at the Graduate School, has received the 2026 Melva S. Ramsay Award for her outstanding service...

New Peer Review Challenge prepares students for competitive funding, celebrates first awardees

New Peer Review Challenge prepares students for competitive funding, celebrates first awardees

The Graduate School’s new Peer Review Challenge program, led by the Career Development team, is helping students build essential grant writing and review skills, as we celebrate ...

April’s Paper of the Month highlights the beauty of following the science

April’s Paper of the Month highlights the beauty of following the science

Cancer Biology graduate Lan T. H. Phi uncovered a new role for AXL in inflammatory breast cancer, showing it drives tumor progression by promoting immunosuppressive polarization through STAT6 signaling...