معرفی
Renato Aguilera is a Professor of Biological Sciences at the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) and serves as Director of the Biology Graduate Program and the Research Infrastructure Core at the Border Biomedical Research Center (BBRC). His research focuses on immunology, cancer biology, drug discovery, and health disparities, particularly in Hispanic populations. He has developed high-throughput assays for chemical library screening and pioneered studies on repurposing antimalarial drugs like Pyronaridine as Topoisomerase inhibitors for cancer therapy. His work includes collaborations with TTUHSC to identify genetic mutations in Hispanic Triple-Negative Breast Cancer patients, aiming to address ethnic disparities in cancer prevalence and treatment efficacy.
- University: University of Texas at El Paso
- Department: Biological Sciences
- Core Facilities: Border Biomedical Research Center (BBRC) - Cellular Characterization and Biorepository Facility
Research Interests: His work spans cancer biochemistry, immunology, and drug discovery, with a strong emphasis on health disparities. He leads projects to establish Hispanic-derived cancer cell lines for evaluating drug responses and has secured significant NIH funding, including a $6.4 million grant for student training and a $19 million grant for Mexican-American cancer research.
Scientific Awards:
- 2022 EE Just Lectureship and Award (ASCB)
- 2019 Distinguished Scientist Award (SACNAS)
Training & Mentorship: Aguilera directs the NIH-funded RISE program, which has trained 25 undergraduates and 12 Ph.D. candidates from underrepresented groups. He actively promotes diversity in STEM through initiatives like the Minorities Affairs Committee of the American Society for Cell Biology.
