Cancer Biology student Mariana Najjar, advised by Hui-Wen Lo, PhD, was selected as a pre-doctoral graduate research assistant in the McWilliams School of Biomedical Informatics at UTHealth Houston, Genomics and Translational Cancer Research Training Program (BIG-TCR) funded by the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT) late last year. This award supports her research on drug treatment for breast cancer brain metastases. 

Advancing research to help women

“I chose this research project because of the aggressiveness of breast cancer brain metastases,” says Najjar. Patients diagnosed with these metastases have poor prognoses and limited treatment options, and Najjar felt a call to help. “As a woman, I feel a strong connection to advancing research that could directly impact women facing this devastating diagnosis,” she says. She chose to pursue a project focused on developing novel targeted therapies for breast cancer brain metastases. Her research centers around a new drug that targets a specific protein found in the cancer cells. Her ultimate goal is to characterize the safety of the drug, understand how it works, and determine its efficacy in treating and preventing breast cancer brain metastases.  

The cutting edge  

Najjar chose the Graduate School for its resources. As one of the best institutions in the country for cancer research, it provides her with access to cutting-edge facilities that allow her to conduct comprehensive research without the need to seek external resources. “The strong research community, extensive outreach programs, and multidisciplinary collaboration across multiple departments create an ideal environment for scientific growth for a starting scientist like me,” says Najjar. She advises new students to stay open-minded, even when things aren’t easy. “Absorb as much as you can, stay curious, and find joy in the challenges.” 

Bridging the gap 

Najjar is focused on making meaningful contributions to her field — she is using her time at the Graduate School to develop her expertise in cancer biology, drug development, and translational research, as well as improve as a leader and a science communicator. When she completes her PhD, Najjar plans to conduct research investigating the biological drivers of the aggressive cancers that disproportionately affect vulnerable populations. She is interested in working either for a non-profit organization or in a lab where she can contribute to developing better treatment strategies for these types of cancer. “In the long term, I aspire to establish myself as an independent cancer researcher leading research efforts that bridge the gap between basic science and clinical applications, ultimately improving treatment options for patients with aggressive cancers,” says Najjar.  

A team effort 

“I couldn’t have received this award without the support of my mentor and colleagues,” says Najjar. “Research is never a solo effort — it requires more than just one motivated person to make meaningful progress. It requires a team.” She adds that it’s important to have a group to offer critiques and exchange ideas, and that being around collaborative, constructive, and supportive people is important for a scientist’s growth. “Science thrives on teamwork, and having the right people around you is essential for success.”