Introduction – Manal

Introduction – Manal

Manal

Tell me a bit about yourself.

Hi there! I’m Manal, a born and bred New Yorker. Being a true child of the diaspora, I also spent a chunk of my life in Lebanon, my parents’ homeland. I’m a self-professed nerd (and proud), so in retrospect, it doesn’t seem too surprising that I eventually became a scientist.

My love of science began long before I ever stepped foot into a laboratory. Growing up, I was fascinated by the wonders of the natural world, sparking a lifelong passion for scientific exploration that has remained with me throughout my life. I owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to the exceptional science teachers who inspired and guided me during my years of schooling, from elementary to graduate school. Special shout-out to Mr. Gallet, Mrs. Barchetto, Mr. Faour, and Dr. Chokr, among others, for their invaluable influence and encouragement along the way! Now, as a research associate at a biotech startup, I bring together my diverse background and unwavering love for science into developing cutting-edge solutions in the field of oncolytic virology.

Outside of science, I have a lot of interests that bring balance to my life. I enjoy reading, attending live theater performances and concerts, and exploring different genres of music, from old school hip-hop to classic rock. Art and cultural experiences also hold a special place in my heart, and I often seek out opportunities to visit museums and heritage sites. Traveling allows me to broaden my horizons and discover new perspectives, while cooking provides me with a creative outlet to experiment with flavors and nourish both body and soul.

Why did you decide to join Humane Genomics?

Joining Humane Genomics was a decision born out of genuine excitement. After spending many years in academia, I felt a strong desire to gain experience in the biotech sector and pursue a new challenge. When I learned about the company’s research and mission to advance genomic research for the betterment of human health, I knew I had found the perfect opportunity to make that transition. The prospect of contributing my expertise to a team dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the field of healthcare was incredibly compelling. Moreover, the company’s commitment to fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment resonated deeply with me.

In essence, joining Humane Genomics felt like more than just a career move—it felt like joining a community of like-minded individuals driven by a shared purpose: to push the

boundaries of scientific discovery and improve lives. And that, to me, was an opportunity I simply couldn’t pass up.

Why is your background a great fit?

My academic journey in pathogenic mycobacterial research has equipped me with a solid foundation in molecular biology and microbiology. While these were my primary areas of focus, I’ve found that the skills I developed are incredibly valuable here at Humane Genomics. Despite initially specializing in a different area, I was eager to learn and adapt to what was needed of me at Humane Genomics. This adaptability has been crucial in navigating the diverse projects and challenges we encounter. My background has really sharpened my ability to understand complex genetic processes, which fits perfectly with our mission of advancing genomic research for the greater good. 

What is your role and what are you working on?

At Humane Genomics, my role as a Research Associate involves diving into a range of tasks, from genome engineering to bacterial and cell culture, along with PCR and sequencing. I’m hands-on in the lab, not just executing experiments, but also diving deep into the analysis that follows. Presenting our findings in our weekly meetings keeps the team aligned and moving forward. Collaborating closely with our Lead Scientist, I’m also involved in shaping the future of our protocols and ensuring our lab runs smoothly. It’s a dynamic role where every day brings new challenges and opportunities for innovation.

What are you most excited about?

I’m particularly excited about testing our synthesized oncolytic viruses in mouse models and the potential for subsequent clinical trials, should they prove successful. These trials represent crucial milestones in our journey toward revolutionizing cancer treatment. If all goes well, they could pave the way for significant advancements in targeted therapies, bringing hope to countless individuals battling cancer. It’s an exhilarating prospect, one that fuels my passion for our work at Humane Genomics.

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