MOMEN-HERAVI LAB

CANCER BIOLOGY AND IMMUNOLOGY LAB

The Momen-Heravi Lab, led by Dr. Flora (Fatemeh) Momen-Heravi, is part of the UCSF Department of Orofacial Sciences, and the UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, and the UCSF Bakar ImmunoX Initiative at the University of California, San Francisco. 

We strive to perform innovative science to understand the biological mechanisms underlying carcinogenesis mediated by tumor immune cell interactions and exploit tumor vulnerabilities to cure cancer. Our research bridges oral diseases and molecular immunology, investigating how mucosal barrier immunity, myeloid and lymphoid cell dysregulation, and microbe–host interactions shape both periodontal disease and cancer biology. 


Extracellular Vesicles


Genome Engineering


Tumor Biomarker


Periodontal Disease

RESEARCH GOAL

Understanding the interplay between the tumor, exosomes/extracellular vesicles, and tumor microenvironment to identify actionable molecular targets for head and neck cancer.

Develop novel gene editing methods to edit tumor mutations and tumor-associated macrophages for treatment of head and neck cancer and lung cancer.

Examining the role of innate immunity in the pathogenesis of periodontal disease and its convergence with diabetes and carcinogenesis.

OPPORTUNITIES

Happy is he who gets to know the reasons for things.

Our group is always seeking highly motivated and innovative individuals to join our team.

Postdoctoral candidates (Ph.D.) should have a record of scientific innovation, productivity and rigor, a strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals, the ability to work in a multi-disciplinary multi-cultural team, excellent time management, excellent written and oral communication skills.

Required Skills/Competencies:

  • Demonstrating outstanding personal initiative and originality of thought
  • Excellent time management and organizational skills
  • Ability to work independently in a multidisciplinary, fast-paced, results-oriented environment
  • Excellent teamwork
  • Ability to convey their ideas and thoughts in an organized cohesive manner
  • Ability to meet deadlines and multitask efficiently is a must
  • Expertise in one or more of the following areas: Molecular biology, Immunology, Cancer biology, Cell biology, Chemistry, Genetics, Bioinformatics/Computer Science
Please contact Dr. Momen-Heravi directly. 
 
PhD students 

Our lab is part of the Oral and Craniofacial Sciences Graduate Program and Biomedical Science Graduate Program at UCSF. If you are interested in joining our group as a PhD student please apply to the program and email Dr. Momen-Heravi directly.


Dental students, Graduate students, Residents, Undergraduate students

Should be goal-oriented, dedicated, and driven by the need to learn and prepared to make a long-term commitment.

Required Skills/Competencies:

  • Ability to follow complex directions and protocols
  • Excellent time management and organizational skills
  • Excellent teamwork
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills

Application requirements:

  • Cover letter outlining relevant experience and interests
  • CV including name of referees
  • Submit above items and your interest directly to Dr. Momen-Heravi: f.m.heravi@gmail.com