Email

salma.kaochar@bcm.edu

Positions

Assistant Professor

Department of Medicine
Section Hematology/Oncology
Baylor College of Medicine
Houston, TX

Addresses

Kaochar Lab (Lab)

Alkek Building for Biomedical Research
Room: ABBR-R451C
Houston, TX 77030
United States

Kaochar-Office (Office)

1 Baylor Plaza
New Alkek Research Building R404
Houston, TX 77030
United States
Phone: (713) 798-1112
salma.kaochar@bcm.edu

Education

BS from University of Arizona

Tucson, Arizona United States

Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics

BA from University of Arizona

Tucson

Creative Writing (Fiction)

MFA from University of Arizona

Tucson

Creative Writing (Fiction)

PhD from University of Arizona

Tucson

Biochemistry and Molecular and Cellular Biology

Postdoctoral Fellowship at UT Southwestern Medical Center

Dallas, Texas

Biochemistry

Postdoctoral Fellowship at Baylor College of Medicine

Houston, Texas

Oncology

Professional Statement

My laboratory focuses on uncovering the genetic and epigenetic mechanisms that drive aggressive prostate cancer, utilizing an integrative approach across diverse models and technologies. We work with primary biospecimens from cancer patients, including biofluids and tumor tissues, and employ in vitro human and mouse cell lines, 3D organoid cultures, as well as in vivo models such as patient-derived xenografts and genetically engineered mice. Leveraging cutting-edge technologies, including next-generation sequencing combined with machine learning, our primary goal is to identify biosignature and actionable gene targets that can serve as biomarkers or therapeutic targets for clinical intervention. A central mission of my research is addressing long-standing cancer health disparities particularly in underserved, racial/ethnic minority populations. By bridging the gap between laboratory discoveries and clinical applications, our goal is to advance precision medicine, bringing innovative cancer therapies closer to patients. As an educator and team leader, I am committed to fostering a collaborative, inclusive, and intellectually stimulating learning environment—one that encourages curiosity, transformative thinking, and academic excellence.

Websites

Funding

Minority PDX Development and Trial Center - #1U54CA233223-01

$6,353,982.00 Grant funding from National Institute of Health

Identification of Novel Biomarkers in African American Prostate Cancer for PARP Inhibition - #W81XWH-21-1-0253

$1,237,500.00 Grant funding from DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE - CONGRESSIONALLY DIRECTED MEDICAL RESEARCH PROGRAMS

Targeting Castration Resistant Prostate Cancer via Potent Inhibition of Signaling Lipids - #5R01CA251560

Grant funding from National Cancer Institute

Development of a Novel Therapeutic Strategy for Prostate Cancer in African American Men - #W81XWH-22-1-0859

$1,237,500.00 Grant funding from DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE - CONGRESSIONALLY DIRECTED MEDICAL RESEARCH PROGRAMS