Assistant Professor of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (Research)

Overview

I am an Assistant Professor of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The Warren Albert Medical School, Brown University, Rhode Island, USA, where I began my tenure at the beginning of this year (2024). With a career dedicated to exploring the intricate realm of environmental genotoxicity and therapeutic-induced DNA lesions, I bring a wealth of experience and insight to my academic pursuits.

My journey into the field commenced during my doctoral studies at the Radiobiology laboratory of the University of Stellenbosch Medical School. Here, I delved deep into the protective and tolerance mechanisms that confer resistance to cancer cells against ionizing radiation, laying the groundwork for my subsequent endeavors. Following the completion of my Ph.D., I embarked on a transformative 21-year tenure in Germany, where I was stationed at the Institute of Toxicology, Johannes Gutenberg Universität Mainz.

In Germany, my research trajectory pivoted towards the study of DNA damage induced by alkylating agents, a significant class of compounds with implications both in environmental exposure and cancer therapy. Across my postdoctoral years (2002-2008) and later as a principal investigator (2009-2023), I meticulously dissected the cellular responses elicited by these agents. My investigations not only encompassed elucidating DNA repair pathways but also unraveling the intricate mechanisms governing cell death in response to genotoxic insults.

Rooted in a solid academic foundation in biochemistry and cell biology, my expertise in molecular toxicology has been honed through diverse research avenues. As Principal Investigator or co-investigator on various university and DFG (German Research Society) funded projects, I've demonstrated adeptness in steering research endeavors from conceptualization to fruition. My leadership has been instrumental in orchestrating research teams, defining research protocols, managing budgets, and fostering collaborative synergies with fellow researchers.

I staunchly believe in the ethos of transparent communication and the pragmatic delineation of research plans, timelines, and budgets. In summary, my academic journey underscores not only my expertise but also my commitment to advancing knowledge in the field of DNA repair.

Brown Affiliations