Kamar Chahine
M1-P1
Professional Background
I graduated from the University of Kansas (KU) in Lawrence, KS, in 2024 with a Bachelor of Science degree with Honors in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology and a minor in Chemistry. My research journey began at the Lebanese American University in 2020, where I spent my freshman and sophomore years. During this time, I led an interdisciplinary research project focused on designing, synthesizing, and characterizing Diaminoquinone polypyridyl Ruthenium complexes for applications in biological sensor technology and phototherapy for cancer treatment.
In my junior-senior years at the University of Kansas, I joined the MARC NIH research program and worked as a research assistant in Dr. Kristi Neufeld's lab. The Neufeld lab studies colorectal cancer, the third most diagnosed cancer in the United States, specifically focusing on the tumor suppressor protein called Adenomatous Polyposis Coli (APC). My project examined the effect of heat shock stress on APC and its subcellular localization in the nucleus of colorectal cancer cells. My work in Dr. Neufeld's lab deeply resonated with me, sparking a passion for cancer biology that I wish to pursue further. Joining the lab turned out to be one of the best decisions I have made, as it immersed me in the entire research process and deepened my passion for cancer biology. It became clear to me that I wanted to contribute to the field and make a positive impact.
As I continue my studies at KU Medical Center, I aim to further explore cancer biology and treatment therapies. I look forward to meeting other students and embarking on this journey to become a physician-scientist, dedicated to making a positive impact in the field of cancer research.
Outside of my studies, I enjoy riding my bicycle, hiking, playing basketball, painting, and building puzzles.