John Powers

John Powers is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Pediatrics and Courtesy Assistant Professor in the Department of Oncology at Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin, where he leads RNA biology research targeting pediatric neuroblastoma as a CPRIT Scholar.

His academic credentials include:

• Bachelor's degree in Microbiology from University of Texas at Austin
• Ph.D. in Molecular Genetics and Microbiology from University of Texas at Austin
• Postdoctoral training at Harvard Medical School and Boston Children's Hospital focusing on microRNA biology and cancer genetics

Dr. Powers' research centers on deciphering MYCN-driven mechanisms in neuroblastoma through RNA biology, with dual therapeutic approaches: developing RNA-based treatments and creating low-cost personalized cancer vaccines. Core research pillars encompass:

• MYCN amplification and dysregulation pathways
• RNA therapeutics for high-risk neuroblastoma
• Personalized vaccine platforms for targeted cancer therapy

His publication record reveals consistent focus on neuroblastoma pathogenesis since 2010, with recent work (2024-2025) emphasizing lipid metabolism interactions with MYCN, noncoding RNA mechanisms, and translational applications of RNA biology. The research trajectory demonstrates evolution from fundamental molecular mechanisms to preclinical therapeutic development.

Professional recognition includes:

• CPRIT Scholar award from Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas

Dr. Powers directs the Powers Lab at Dell Pediatric Research Institute, where his team investigates RNA-based interventions for pediatric cancers. His industry background at Moderna Therapeutics informs the lab's translational approach to therapeutic development, particularly in cellular genetic engineering for cancer vaccines.