Waaqo Daddacha

Waaqo Daddacha is an Assistant Professor at the Medical College of Georgia, affiliated with the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. His research focuses on molecular mechanisms of DNA repair, cancer therapeutics, and gene therapy applications in glioblastoma treatment. He teaches graduate-level courses including Cur Topics & Tech in MB, Integrative Science, and Elements of Scientific Pres.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Microbiology and Immunology, University of Rochester (2014)
• MS in Microbiology and Immunology, University of Rochester (2012)

Research Interests: Dr. Daddacha investigates the role of SAMHD1 and SIRT proteins in DNA repair pathways, their implications in cancer drug resistance, and the development of viral vector-based gene therapies for refractory glioblastoma. His work bridges molecular biology and clinical oncology.

Scientific Awards:

• Outstanding Young Basic Scientist Faculty Award, Medical College of Georgia (2020)

Service: Dr. Daddacha serves on the Instrument Committee (2019-2020) and the MCG Research Strategic Plan Work Group (2021-Present). He is an ad hoc reviewer for the Journal of Visualized Experiment (2021-Present).