I am a postdoctoral researcher at Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, working under the supervision of Professor Suneet Agarwal, MD, PhD in the Hematology and Oncology Department. My research focuses on the field of telomere biology and cancer genetics, with a specific emphasis on telomere biology disorders (TBD) related to genetic diseases in children.

My journey in medical research began in Thailand, where I completed my MD and worked as a physician. This clinical experience has been invaluable in shaping my approach to research, providing a unique perspective that bridges the gap between patient care and scientific discovery.

During my PhD studies at the University of Pittsburgh, I made significant contributions to the understanding of telomere biology in melanoma. Working alongside my advisor, Dr. Jonathan Alder, as well as collaboration with Dr. Carol Greider, 2009 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, we discovered a novel mechanism by which melanoma cells achieve immortality through mutations in the TPP1 gene promoter. Our groundbreaking research, published in Science, revealed that these mutations work in conjunction with TERT promoter mutations to lengthen telomeres in melanoma cells.

Me and Dr. Greider at the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory in 2023

Currently, at the Agarwal Lab, I am at the forefront of studying complex genetic disorders. My goal is to understand the novel mutations in telomere-related genes found in patients with TBD phenotype, both in terms of mechanism and function. Our work aims to unravel the intricate mechanisms underlying these conditions and translate our findings into practical applications.

This research has important implications for understanding cancer cell immortality and developing potential therapeutic targets. By deepening our understanding of these genetic disorders, we hope to make significant strides in enhancing the quality of life for affected children and their families.

My work exemplifies the intersection of clinical medicine and basic science research. My background as a physician informs my approach to cancer research, driving me to pursue discoveries that could lead to new therapeutic innovations, improving current treatment strategies, and ultimately, better patient outcomes.