Ma Somsouk

Ma Somsouk, MD, MAS is a Professor in the School of Medicine at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF). He specializes in gastroenterology and HIV research, focusing on colorectal cancer screening interventions, HIV persistence in gut tissues, and gut microbiome interactions. His work integrates population health strategies with molecular and clinical research to address disparities in cancer outcomes and infectious disease management.

Dr. Somsouk holds an MD from Harvard Medical School, an MAS in Epidemiology and Biostatistics from UCSF, and advanced training in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. His research spans clinical trials, public health programs, and translational studies, supported by grants from NIH and other institutions. Key contributions include developing FIT-based screening programs, studying HIV reservoirs, and analyzing gut-liver axis dysfunction in treated HIV infection.

He leads or co-leads multiple NIH-funded projects, including the IMPACTT trial to improve colonoscopy follow-up and studies on HIV latency mechanisms. His work emphasizes collaboration across disciplines to advance equity in healthcare access and outcomes.

Education:

• M.A.S., Epidemiology and Biostatistics, UCSF, 2008
• MD, Harvard Medical School, 2002
• MAS Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Champion Training, UC, 2022
• B.A., Chemistry, Pomona College, 1997

Research Interests:

Dr. Somsouk’s research bridges clinical practice and population health, with a focus on:
1. Multilevel interventions for colorectal cancer screening in underserved populations.
2. HIV persistence and immune activation in gut tissues.
3. Gut microbiome’s role in HIV, liver disease, and inflammatory bowel disease.
4. Leveraging big data and health systems to improve care equity.
His work uses advanced techniques like spatial transcriptomics and organoid models to study viral reservoirs and mucosal immunity.

Grants & Roles:

• Principal Investigator: IMPACTT (NIH R01CA271031)
• Co-Investigator: HIV Cure Research (NIH R01AI1836666, Delaney Enterprise)
• Leadership in UCSF’s Helen Diller Cancer Center initiatives

Labs/Teams:

Collaborates with UCSF’s Institute for HIV Cure Research, Center for Vulnerable Populations, and the HIV/AIDS Division. Active in multi-institutional consortia like the Delaney AIDS Research Enterprise.