My primary research interests lie in the fields of Cancer Biology, Cancer Immunology, and Cancer Pharmacology, with additional expertise in genetic risk factors, particularly SNPs related to the development of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.
In my academic role, I am deeply committed to provide high quality education and mentorship to students and provide students with appropriate guidance to overcome the challenges they may encounter throughout their academic journeys. My teaching philosophy revolves around integrating cutting- edge research into the curriculum, fostering a high level of critical thinking and encouraging innovative approach to problem solving.
My research interest primarily focuses on understanding the molecular and cellular processes of tumorigenesis. Over the years, I have dedicated significant efforts to investigating potential therapeutic strategies to enhance immune system ability to overcome cancer development and cancer progression. This includes in dept studying the mechanisms communication between cancer cells and normal cells and immune cells through extracellular vesicles. I explore Extracellular vesicles not only as an element for cellular communication but also a potential biomarker for cancer screening programmes and as a novel therapeutic strategy.
In addition to my research on Extracellular vesicles, I am actively also contributing to the advancement of cancer treatment and improving patient outcome through the development combination therapy approaches. One notable area of my work involves the use of ketogenic diet as an adjunct to conventional cancer therapy. This approach aims to exploit metabolic vulnerabilities of tumour cells, enhancing the efficacy of existing treatment and potentially leading to better clinical outcomes for cancer patients.
Professional memberships and activities
- AFHE, from 2012- 2017
- FHEA since 2027
- Extra Cellular Vesicles society since 2020
Academic qualifications
My Educational background is comprehensive and diverse, reflecting a commitment to both medical practice and academic expertise. I have a postgraduate Certificate (PGCert) in Teaching and Learning in Higher education, which I completed in 2017. This qualification enables me with the pedagogical skills necessary to effectively teach and mentor students in higher education setting.
In 2015, I earned a PhD in Cancer Biology- Immunology from London Metropolitan university (LMU). My Doctoral studies focused on cutting edge research in cancer biology and the immune system’s response to malignancies. This intensive research experience enhanced my analytical skills and expanded my expertise in the fields of biological and Biomedical research.
I obtained a BSc (Hons) in Biomedical Science and a MSc in Biomedical Science in 2011 from LMU. This advanced degree allowed me to deepen my knowledge of biological systems and processes, enhancing my research skills and theoretical understanding cells and biological modules within the organ systems. Additionally, I hold an M.D. in curative medicine from Kabul Medical University- Afghanistan. This fundamental medical education provided me with a comprehensive and profound understanding of clinical practices and patients care.
Expertise
Molecular Biology
- Gene Expression and Regulation: Understanding the mechanisms that control gene expression at transcriptional and translational levels.
- DNA/RNA Manipulation: Techniques such as CRISPR, PCR, and sequencing.
- Protein Structure and Function: Analysis of protein interactions, folding, and function; techniques like Western blotting and mass spectrometry.
- Cell Signalling Pathways: Researching pathways like MAPK, PI3K/Akt, and others.
- Molecular Techniques: Proficiency in techniques such as gel electrophoresis, Southern and Northern blotting.
Immunology
- Immune System Function: Understanding innate and adaptive immunity, including T cell and B cell development and function.
- Autoimmunity and Inflammation: Studying mechanisms of autoimmune diseases and inflammatory responses.
- Vaccine Development: Knowledge in designing and testing vaccines, including mRNA and viral vector vaccines.
- Therapeutic Antibodies: Development and mechanisms of monoclonal antibodies and immunotherapies.
- Pathogen Interaction: Understanding how viruses, bacteria, and parasites interact with the immune system.
Pharmacology
- Drug Mechanisms: Understanding how drugs interact with biological systems at the molecular level.
- Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics: Study of drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion, as well as the drug’s effects on the body.
- Toxicology: Study of harmful effects of substances on organisms and the assessment of drug safety.
- Personalized Medicine: Research into how genetic variations affect drug responses and tailoring treatments accordingly.
Research interests
- Tumour Microenvironment: Investigating the cellular and molecular components of the tumour microenvironment and their role in tumour progression and metastasis.
- Oncogenes and Tumour Suppressor Genes: Studying the pathways and mechanisms by which oncogenes drive cancer development and how tumour suppressor genes can be targeted for therapeutic advantage.
- Cell Signalling Pathways: Exploring key signalling pathways (e.g., PI3K/Akt, MAPK, and Wnt) involved in cancer cell proliferation, survival, and resistance to therapy.
- Immune Evasion Mechanisms: Researching how tumours evade the immune response, including the role of immune checkpoint proteins and the tumour immune microenvironment.
- Biomarkers for Immunotherapy Response: Identifying predictive biomarkers that can help determine patient eligibility for specific immunotherapies.
- Drug Resistance Mechanisms: Studying the molecular mechanisms underlying resistance to chemotherapy and targeted therapies, with the goal of developing strategies to overcome this resistance.
- Development of Novel Therapeutics: Engaging in the design and testing of new pharmacological agents, including small molecules and biologics, aimed at targeting specific pathways in cancer cells.
- Combination Therapies: Exploring the potential of combining traditional chemotherapeutics with immunotherapeutic agents to enhance treatment efficacy and reduce adverse effects.
Teaching
- Module leader for Cancer Biology and Medical Immunology and Immunotherapy Level 6.
- Module leader for Medical Genetics and Clinical immunology level 6.
- Module leader for Principles of Molecular Biology- MSc.
- Module leader for Molecular Genetics MSc.
- Module leader for Current Advances in Molecular Biology MSc.
- Director of study for Professional Doctorate in HCS.