Job Description
Lab Overview
The research program in the Abdul-Aziz lab focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms involved in the aging bone marrow microenvironment (BMM) niche and the role of aged microenvironment cells in promoting adult myeloid leukemia development and response to therapy.
Using patient tumor cells and in in vitro as well as in vivo assays, the lab aims to uncover intrinsic mechanisms in the mesenchymal stromal cell and immune cell components of the BMM that are associated with natural and leukemia-induced aging.
The lab also places a large emphasis on investigating the effect of targeted leukemia therapies on components of the bone marrow microenvironment with the goal to understand mechanisms of resistance and relapse that are microenvironment driven.
Educational Background
- PhD, Biomedical Research, The University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK, 2018
- MSc, Oncology, The University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK, 2011
- BSc, Pharmacy and Biotechnology, The German University in Cairo, Cairo, Egypt, 2010
Memberships
- European Hematology Association (EHA)
- American Association for Cancer Research (AACR)
- International Cell Senescence Association (ICSA)
- American Society of Hematology (ASH)
- American Aging Association (AGE)
Honors & Awards
- The NCI Pathway to Independence Award for Outstanding Early Stage Postdoctoral Researchers (K99/R00)
- The Ohio State University, Pelotonia postdoctoral fellowship
Research Interests
Abdul-Aziz Lab – Investigating leukemia promoting processes in the bone marrow microenvironment
- Understanding aging processes (e.g. senescence and inflammation) in the bone marrow microenvironment of myeloid leukemias with the goal of identifying new therapeutic targets and biomarkers of response to therapy
- Investigating the effect of leukemia targeted therapies on components of the microenvironment with the aim to decipher mechanisms of resistance and relapse
Open Positions
About the Position
The Abdul-Aziz Laboratory at the Fels Cancer Institute for Personalized Medicine, Temple University and the Fox Chase Cancer Center is seeking ambitious and self-motivated Postdoctoral Fellows in Cancer Biology to join our efforts to further our understanding of the complex molecular mechanisms involved in the aging bone marrow microenvironment niche and its role in promoting adult myeloid leukemia development and response to therapy. The laboratory uses cutting-edge technologies and collaborations with leading scientists and clinicians to discover novel pathways and treatments for targeting adult leukemia and translate these advances into new treatments. Candidates should have a PhD (or equivalent) degree or be close to obtaining their doctoral degree and should have a passion for science and desire to impact cancer. Advanced molecular biology skills and familiarity with cancer pathogenesis, cell-based therapy and knowledge of molecular/genetic concepts, experimental methods, and data analysis, and ability to maximize resources for troubleshooting pertaining to research activities are essential. Experience using mouse models, a willingness to do animal work and being comfortable with handling of human blood and other tissues is desired..
To Apply
Email a CV, cover letter that states research interest(s) and goals, and the name of at least three references to amina.abdul-aziz@temple.edu. Qualified candidates will then be invited for a preliminary zoom interview.
