Principal Investigator
Assistant Professor, Hematopoietic Biology and Malignancy

Abdul Khalique, Ph.D.
Research Scientist

I am a research scientist with over a decade of experience in molecular biology and RNA regulation. I have a strong background in both yeast and mammalian systems and in a broad range of techniques including PAR-CLIP, next-generation tRNA-Seq, quantitative northern blotting and polysome profiling to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying aberrant tRNA processing and modification. Currently, my research focuses on the regulation of tRNA biosynthesis in T cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL). Outside of the lab, I enjoy playing outdoor sports, particularly badminton and table tennis, as a way to stay active and unwind.

Yu Zhou, Ph.D.
Senior Data Scientist

I am a senior data scientist with a strong background in both bioinformatics and molecular biology. Leading the analysis of single-cell RNA sequencing, CRISPR screens, Riboseq and other multi-omic datasets, my role is to integrate and interpret complex datasets to uncover mechanistic insights and identify potential biomarkers that may inform therapeutic response. In my spare time, I love to swim and go on road trips.

Valerio Ciaurro, Ph.D.
Postdoctoral Fellow

I am a postdoctoral researcher specializing in leukemia and stem cell biology, with a strong background in molecular biology and a passion for translational cancer research. My career has taken me to renowned institutions like MD Anderson, the University of Cambridge and the University of Perugia, where I've developed expertise in mechanistic biology, CRISPR screening and drug testing. I am currently working on characterizing tRNA dysregulation in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) and other hematological malignancies, aiming to uncover new therapeutic strategies. My research focuses on understanding the molecular drivers of leukemia and advancing novel therapies. Outside the lab, I’m a friendly extrovert who enjoys sports and staying active.

Priyanshu Srivastava, Ph.D.
Postdoctoral Fellow

I am a postdoctoral researcher with a strong interest in translational cancer biology and RNA regulation. My research focuses on understanding how oncogenic signaling rewires tRNA biogenesis and translation in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL). By integrating ribosome profiling, polysome analysis, CRISPR-based functional genomics and small molecule inhibition of tRNA synthetases, I aim to uncover therapeutic vulnerabilities in leukemia with minimal toxicity to normal cells. My scientific background includes a Ph.D. in life sciences from ICGEB, New Delhi, where I studied miRNA-mediated regulation of host translation during viral infection. I am passionate about decoding translational control mechanisms in cancer and developing RNA-centric therapeutic strategies. Outside the lab, I enjoy swimming, I love chatting with new people and I am a big beach enthusiast.