Swathi Arur, PhD, and Rachel Miller, PhD honored with annual Oldham Faculty Award

MD Anderson UTHealth Houston Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences faculty members Swathi Arur, PhD, and Rachel Miller, PhD, have been named recipients of the 2025 D. Dudley and Judy White Oldham Faculty Award, recognizing exceptional leadership and service to the Graduate School community. Both Arur and Miller are widely respected for their contributions to biomedical research and education.

Microbiology and Infectious Diseases graduate Khondakar Sayef Ahammed, PhD, explores new horizons in RNA biology research

From a small village in India to the world’s largest medical center, Microbiology and Infectious Diseases graduate Khondakar Sayef Ahammed, PhD, has pursued science as both a career and a way of seeing the world. Believing the scientific lens to be the most powerful, he explored ribonucleic acid (RNA) biology at the Graduate School, uncovering new insights into RNA processing. Along the way, he found strength in mentorship and community. Now as a postdoctoral fellow, Ahammed continues advancing RNA biology with potential to transform patient care.

Meet the Faculty: Wassim Chehab, PhD

With a passion for enhancing curriculum and content at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Houston Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Director of Curriculum and Faculty Development Wassim Chehab, PhD, works closely with faculty and staff to create meaningful learning experiences for our students. From overseeing coursework to encouraging applications for scholarships and fellowships, Chehab is dedicated to helping students excel on their journey to earning their Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or Master of Science (MS) degree.