Satya Prakash

Satya Prakash, PhD, is a Professor in the Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology at the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB). He holds a BSc in Biology and Chemistry from Meerut College, an MVSC in Genetics from the Indian Veterinary Research Institute, and a PhD in Genetics from Washington University. His postdoctoral training was at the University of Chicago. Dr. Prakash's research focuses on DNA replication and repair mechanisms, particularly translesion synthesis (TLS) and their role in cancer. His work has been recognized with awards such as the Merit Award from NCI, the Distinguished Faculty Research Award, and Fellowships from AAAS and the American Academy of Microbiology.

His research interests include understanding how TLS polymerases facilitate replication through DNA lesions, the interplay between DNA repair and cancer evolution, and mechanisms underlying genome instability. Key findings include the discovery of Pol η's role in XPV syndrome and the elucidation of TLS's role in preventing tumorigenesis. Current studies aim to target error-prone DNA repair pathways for cancer therapy.

Dr. Prakash has an extensive publication record spanning DNA repair, TLS mechanisms, and cancer biology. His work bridges biochemical, genetic, and structural approaches to uncover fundamental biological processes and their clinical implications.