Alejandro Aballay, PhD
@aaballay.bsky.social
Dean of the MD Anderson UTHealth Houston Graduate School
https://gsbs.uth.edu/. Scientist studying organismal responses to infections. Views are my own.
https://gsbs.uth.edu/. Scientist studying organismal responses to infections. Views are my own.
Students from several GSBS programs joined me for the first Lunch with the Dean of 2026 yesterday — it was a great opportunity to talk with them about the importance of mentorship, lab environments, and building a strong foundation for research and career growth. #WeAreGSBS
January 22, 2026 at 10:11 PM
Students from several GSBS programs joined me for the first Lunch with the Dean of 2026 yesterday — it was a great opportunity to talk with them about the importance of mentorship, lab environments, and building a strong foundation for research and career growth. #WeAreGSBS
Circadian timing shapes infection outcomes.
In our new paper, we show that baseline inflammatory state—measurable before infection—strongly predicts which individuals will survive a bacterial challenge.
www.science.org/doi/10.1126/...
In our new paper, we show that baseline inflammatory state—measurable before infection—strongly predicts which individuals will survive a bacterial challenge.
www.science.org/doi/10.1126/...
Circadian-shaped immune variability predicts infection outcome
Basal immune state under circadian control predicts infection outcome, and clock gene perturbation shifts survival patterns.
www.science.org
January 2, 2026 at 2:14 PM
Circadian timing shapes infection outcomes.
In our new paper, we show that baseline inflammatory state—measurable before infection—strongly predicts which individuals will survive a bacterial challenge.
www.science.org/doi/10.1126/...
In our new paper, we show that baseline inflammatory state—measurable before infection—strongly predicts which individuals will survive a bacterial challenge.
www.science.org/doi/10.1126/...
This brief explanation from Candise about her work with Dr. Bernard to find new ways of treating pancreatic cancer is a powerful example of how our students help others understand the impact of our research. Great pitch!
Our elevator pitch series, created to share award winning pitches from Graduate Student Research Day, concludes with Cancer Biology PhD student Candise Tat, who explains how copper may hold clues to defeating pancreatic cancer. 🎥 Watch to see how a little change could make a big difference.
November 25, 2025 at 4:18 PM
This brief explanation from Candise about her work with Dr. Bernard to find new ways of treating pancreatic cancer is a powerful example of how our students help others understand the impact of our research. Great pitch!
I had the pleasure of joining our Graduate Student Association this afternoon for a thoughtful town hall discussion. What I appreciated most was the openness of the conversation — hearing directly from students about their experiences. Our goal is simple: to help every student succeed. #WeAreGSBS
November 12, 2025 at 11:27 PM
I had the pleasure of joining our Graduate Student Association this afternoon for a thoughtful town hall discussion. What I appreciated most was the openness of the conversation — hearing directly from students about their experiences. Our goal is simple: to help every student succeed. #WeAreGSBS
Listen to what our graduate students are saying. Terrific advice for new trainees: manage your time, do not be afraid to ask for help, and make the most of Houston’s vibrant community. Great to see how our students build both science and life at the TMC
As our new students are one month in, experiencing the next phase of their academic journeys, not-so-new students in the Neuroscience program, Archit Gupta and Julia Langman, offer some advice for getting acclimated to graduate school, The Medical Center, and Houston! #WeAreGSBS
September 24, 2025 at 12:33 PM
Listen to what our graduate students are saying. Terrific advice for new trainees: manage your time, do not be afraid to ask for help, and make the most of Houston’s vibrant community. Great to see how our students build both science and life at the TMC
Impressive work from one of our Medical Physics PhD candidates. Elevator pitch a great analogy: just as pilots train on simulators before flying, his research uses AI to give future doctors a safe space to practice radiation oncology skills. A great example of GSBS innovation improving cancer care.
We’re kicking off our elevator pitch series — created to share award winning pitches from Graduate Student Research Day — with Medical Physics PhD candidate Skylar Gay! He mentioned it was an honor to watch his peers present their incredible research. Now he’s sharing his research with everyone!
September 10, 2025 at 9:05 PM
Impressive work from one of our Medical Physics PhD candidates. Elevator pitch a great analogy: just as pilots train on simulators before flying, his research uses AI to give future doctors a safe space to practice radiation oncology skills. A great example of GSBS innovation improving cancer care.
Serving as Chair of MMI was one of the most rewarding roles of my career. The department is full of brilliant scientists tackling host–pathogen interactions from every angle. I can’t think of a better opportunity. And of course, doing it all in the natural beauty of the PNW doesn’t hurt.
Come be my boss! We’re looking for a passionate and supportive leader for our Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology. Research in MMI spans diverse models and systems of host-pathogen interactions. Come join us in the beautiful Pacific NW!
facultycareers-ohsu.icims.com/jobs/35624/c...
facultycareers-ohsu.icims.com/jobs/35624/c...
Faculty Portal | OHSU
facultycareers-ohsu.icims.com
August 26, 2025 at 2:19 PM
Serving as Chair of MMI was one of the most rewarding roles of my career. The department is full of brilliant scientists tackling host–pathogen interactions from every angle. I can’t think of a better opportunity. And of course, doing it all in the natural beauty of the PNW doesn’t hurt.
Great start with our new students. Curious minds, strong values, real drive. Welcome to GSBS. #WeAreGSBS
Sharing moments (photos) from last week’s new student orientation: https://loom.ly/pX_lQ30 While students learned about our programs, we got to know them better! Beyond studying biomedical sciences, they like to raise chickens, play basketball, build gadgets, and practice martial arts! #WeAreGSBS
August 25, 2025 at 10:33 PM
Great start with our new students. Curious minds, strong values, real drive. Welcome to GSBS. #WeAreGSBS
Excited to welcome the new class of students to the MD Anderson UTHealth Houston Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences! I look forward to seeing the science you will create, and the impact you will have on the future of biomedical research. @mda-uthgrad.bsky.social
August 19, 2025 at 7:18 PM
Excited to welcome the new class of students to the MD Anderson UTHealth Houston Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences! I look forward to seeing the science you will create, and the impact you will have on the future of biomedical research. @mda-uthgrad.bsky.social
Exciting week! We're thrilled to meet the newest members of our community.
We're off to a smashing start to orientation week! We look forward to getting to know our students from everywhere who speak multiple languages, love to make Matcha, play piano, design clothes, are raising twins, a cat named Tigger, a rooster: RuPaul, and much more! #WeAreGSBS
August 18, 2025 at 8:58 PM
Exciting week! We're thrilled to meet the newest members of our community.
Thanks to our Program Directors for all they’ve done for the GSBS and their dedication and leadership!
It was a celebration!🎉Outgoing program directors William Margolin, PhD – Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, and Suhendan Ekmekcioglu, PhD – Immunology, were honored last week by students, faculty, and staff — thanks to them and Traver Hart, PhD – Quantitative Sciences, for supporting students!
June 18, 2025 at 3:23 PM
Thanks to our Program Directors for all they’ve done for the GSBS and their dedication and leadership!
I’m pleased to help introduce our Paper of the Month series — a great way for researchers and anyone interested in science to learn more about our work to advance healthcare.
Learn about the key advancements utilizing stem cell technology that could drive future cancer research and the development of therapies in our June “Paper of the Month” Decoding cancer etiology with cellular reprogramming: loom.ly/bxjXpj0 #WeAreGSBS #CancerResearch
Paper of the Month: Decoding cancer etiology with cellular reprogramming
loom.ly
June 10, 2025 at 9:13 PM
I’m pleased to help introduce our Paper of the Month series — a great way for researchers and anyone interested in science to learn more about our work to advance healthcare.
Congratulations again, to Molly Bray! It was an honor to present her with this award at our commencement. Dr. Bray is an outstanding role model for our young scientists. #WeAreGSBS
🎉 Honoring Molly S. Bray, PhD ’98, our 2025 Distinguished Alumna! Bray returned to the Graduate School to share how mentorship, curiosity, and embracing change shaped her career — and why today’s graduates are uniquely prepared to lead. 👉 Read more about her inspiring message loom.ly/YGnbFdg
2025 Distinguished Alumna: Molly S. Bray on science, mentorship, and change
loom.ly
June 10, 2025 at 5:28 PM
Congratulations again, to Molly Bray! It was an honor to present her with this award at our commencement. Dr. Bray is an outstanding role model for our young scientists. #WeAreGSBS
It’s great to see Heather's research in the spotlight. Her NIH-supported research reflects the kind of curiosity and commitment that drives scientific discovery and improves human health. We look forward to seeing the impact she will continue to make in the field of neuroscience. #WeAreGSBS
Genetics & Epigenetics student Heather Tsong’s research on brain and neurodegeneration is supported partly by a National Institutes of Health grant awarded early this year. Learn about her research and how this award supports her interest in cellular neuroscience and human health at loom.ly/stRWjds.
NIH grant helps support Genetics & Epigenetics student Heather Tsong’s brain research
loom.ly
May 29, 2025 at 10:44 PM
It’s great to see Heather's research in the spotlight. Her NIH-supported research reflects the kind of curiosity and commitment that drives scientific discovery and improves human health. We look forward to seeing the impact she will continue to make in the field of neuroscience. #WeAreGSBS
Proud of the three students who presented their research at MD Anderson Cancer Center’s Research Town Hall today and answered questions about their important work to better understand brain and colorectal cancer, embryonic development and fertility challenges. Thanks for your dedication to science!
May 16, 2025 at 6:40 PM
Proud of the three students who presented their research at MD Anderson Cancer Center’s Research Town Hall today and answered questions about their important work to better understand brain and colorectal cancer, embryonic development and fertility challenges. Thanks for your dedication to science!
Today’s commencement reminded me what it looks like when a community stands behind science. In these uncertain times, when funding is tight and priorities shift, I’m inspired by our students’ perseverance, families' support, and faculty dedication. The future of biomedical science is in good hands!
May 14, 2025 at 2:22 AM
Today’s commencement reminded me what it looks like when a community stands behind science. In these uncertain times, when funding is tight and priorities shift, I’m inspired by our students’ perseverance, families' support, and faculty dedication. The future of biomedical science is in good hands!
Grateful to everyone who joined us to celebrate the research, resilience, and rising talent that define the GSBS.
I remain proud that our school is not just holding steady—we’re growing. Thanks to the support of our donors and institutional partners.
I remain proud that our school is not just holding steady—we’re growing. Thanks to the support of our donors and institutional partners.
April 30, 2025 at 7:58 PM
Grateful to everyone who joined us to celebrate the research, resilience, and rising talent that define the GSBS.
I remain proud that our school is not just holding steady—we’re growing. Thanks to the support of our donors and institutional partners.
I remain proud that our school is not just holding steady—we’re growing. Thanks to the support of our donors and institutional partners.
Another opportunity to celebrate our students' commitment to leadership as part of their journey. Takese, Bhargavi, Zeph, and Larissa, your commitment to becoming thoughtful leaders as well as strong researchers is inspiring. Congratulations to each of you! #FutureLeaders #WeAreGSBS
Congratulations to students Takese McKenzie, Bhargavi Brahmendra Barathi, Zeph Kaffey, and Larissa Tavizon (pictured with leadership coach Dustin Peterson) on completing the university-wide UTHealth Leads program in preparation for becoming future leaders as well as strong researchers! #WeAreGSBS
April 18, 2025 at 3:57 PM
Another opportunity to celebrate our students' commitment to leadership as part of their journey. Takese, Bhargavi, Zeph, and Larissa, your commitment to becoming thoughtful leaders as well as strong researchers is inspiring. Congratulations to each of you! #FutureLeaders #WeAreGSBS
Had a great time last night at the Deans’ Dinner for the UTHealth Student InterCouncil. Proud to be there with our GSBS representatives—grateful for their dedication to student leadership and for representing our school so well.
#WeAreGSBS
#UTHealth #StudentLeadership
#WeAreGSBS
#UTHealth #StudentLeadership
April 17, 2025 at 10:12 PM
Had a great time last night at the Deans’ Dinner for the UTHealth Student InterCouncil. Proud to be there with our GSBS representatives—grateful for their dedication to student leadership and for representing our school so well.
#WeAreGSBS
#UTHealth #StudentLeadership
#WeAreGSBS
#UTHealth #StudentLeadership
Graduate Student Appreciation Week 2025 was full of special moments with our students, and we are already looking forward to creating more next year! #WeAreGSBS #GSAW2025 #GraduateStudentAppreciationWeek @mda-uthgrad.bsky.social
April 11, 2025 at 9:38 PM
Graduate Student Appreciation Week 2025 was full of special moments with our students, and we are already looking forward to creating more next year! #WeAreGSBS #GSAW2025 #GraduateStudentAppreciationWeek @mda-uthgrad.bsky.social
Every gift from our donors makes a difference in advancing biomedical science — one student and one breakthrough at a time. We greatly appreciate your support.
THANK YOU to everyone who contributed to #UTHealthHoustonGivingDay on April 8! In just 24 hours, we raised an impressive $8,275 from 19 donors! Your generosity today is shaping tomorrow’s health care — thank you for your incredible support in helping us build a brighter, healthier future! #WeAreGSBS
April 11, 2025 at 9:21 PM
Every gift from our donors makes a difference in advancing biomedical science — one student and one breakthrough at a time. We greatly appreciate your support.
It's #UTHealthHoustonGivingDay and we’re on a mission to make a big impact in a short amount of time. Whether you’re making a gift, sharing our message, or cheering us on, I hope you will join me in supporting breakthroughs in biomedical science. Every gift makes a difference at go.uth.edu/GDGSBS25.
April 8, 2025 at 4:18 PM
It's #UTHealthHoustonGivingDay and we’re on a mission to make a big impact in a short amount of time. Whether you’re making a gift, sharing our message, or cheering us on, I hope you will join me in supporting breakthroughs in biomedical science. Every gift makes a difference at go.uth.edu/GDGSBS25.
Big day! Congratulations to our MD/PhD students on your matches — enjoy your residencies at these universities across the country.
They’re matched! Congratulations to our physician-scientists in the University of Texas Medical Scientist Training Program at Houston, who celebrated Match Day 2025, matching with their residencies and taking the next step in their medical careers! #WeAreGSBS #matchday2025
March 25, 2025 at 11:48 PM
Big day! Congratulations to our MD/PhD students on your matches — enjoy your residencies at these universities across the country.
We are pleased to welcome MD Anderson Cancer Center scientist and educator Francesca Cole, PhD, as our new associate dean for academic affairs! She is pictured fourth from left in the Cole Laboratory. Read more at go.uth.edu/FrancescaCole-AssociateDean-AcademicAffairs
@francescacole.bsky.social
@francescacole.bsky.social
March 21, 2025 at 5:33 PM
We are pleased to welcome MD Anderson Cancer Center scientist and educator Francesca Cole, PhD, as our new associate dean for academic affairs! She is pictured fourth from left in the Cole Laboratory. Read more at go.uth.edu/FrancescaCole-AssociateDean-AcademicAffairs
@francescacole.bsky.social
@francescacole.bsky.social
It's great to see our students thriving in their labs. Keep up the fantastic work on cancer research, Andrea! #cancerresearch
Andrea Hernandez Molina’s research in the Young Laboratory involves treatment for head and neck cancer. Hear more about her research as a PhD candidate in the Immunology Program, and why she is thankful to work with such amazing scientists in their “home away from home.” #WeAreGSBS #immunology
March 14, 2025 at 6:16 PM
It's great to see our students thriving in their labs. Keep up the fantastic work on cancer research, Andrea! #cancerresearch