Positions
- Assistant Professor
-
Department of Medicine
Section Hematology/Oncology
ÌÇÐÄvlogÃÛÌÒ of Medicine
Houston, TX
Addresses
- Kaochar Lab (Lab)
-
Alkek Building for Biomedical Research
Room: ABBR-R451C
Houston, TX, 77030
United States
- Kaochar-Office (Office)
-
1 Baylor Plaza
New Alkek Research Building R404
Houston, TX, 77030
United States
Phone: (713) 798-1112
salma.kaochar@bcm.edu
Education
- BS from University of Arizona
- Tucson, Arizona, United States
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics
- BA from University of Arizona
- Tucson
- Creative Writing (Fiction)
- MFA from University of Arizona
- Tucson
- Creative Writing (Fiction)
- PhD from University of Arizona
- Tucson
- Biochemistry and Molecular and Cellular Biology
- Postdoctoral Fellowship at UT Southwestern Medical Center
- Dallas, Texas
- Biochemistry
- Postdoctoral Fellowship at ÌÇÐÄvlogÃÛÌÒ of Medicine
- Houston, Texas
- Oncology
Professional Statement
My laboratory focuses on uncovering the genetic and epigenetic mechanisms that drive aggressive prostate cancer, utilizing an integrative approach across diverse models and technologies. We work with primary biospecimens from cancer patients, including biofluids and tumor tissues, and employ in vitro human and mouse cell lines, 3D organoid cultures, as well as in vivo models such as patient-derived xenografts and genetically engineered mice. Leveraging cutting-edge technologies, including next-generation sequencing combined with machine learning, our primary goal is to identify biosignature and actionable gene targets that can serve as biomarkers or therapeutic targets for clinical intervention. A central mission of my research is addressing long-standing cancer health disparities particularly in underserved, racial/ethnic minority populations. By bridging the gap between laboratory discoveries and clinical applications, our goal is to advance precision medicine, bringing innovative cancer therapies closer to patients. As an educator and team leader, I am committed to fostering a collaborative, inclusive, and intellectually stimulating learning environment—one that encourages curiosity, transformative thinking, and academic excellence.
Websites
Funding
-
Minority PDX Development and Trial Center
#1U54CA233223-01 - $6,353,982.00
- Grant funding from National Institute of Health
-
Identification of Novel Biomarkers in African American Prostate Cancer for PARP Inhibition
#W81XWH-21-1-0253 - $1,237,500.00
- Grant funding from DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE - CONGRESSIONALLY DIRECTED MEDICAL RESEARCH PROGRAMS
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Targeting Castration Resistant Prostate Cancer via Potent Inhibition of Signaling Lipids
#5R01CA251560 - Grant funding from National Cancer Institute
-
Development of a Novel Therapeutic Strategy for Prostate Cancer in African American Men
#W81XWH-22-1-0859 - $1,237,500.00
- Grant funding from DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE - CONGRESSIONALLY DIRECTED MEDICAL RESEARCH PROGRAMS
-
2019 PCF VAlor Challenge Award
- $1,000,000.00
- Grant funding from Prostate Cancer Foundation
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