By Tajdar H Zaidi
Lucknow: In a proud moment for the scientific community in India, particularly in Uttar Pradesh, Dr. Adria Hasan, a dedicated cancer researcher from Lucknow, has been honored with the prestigious Cancer Epigenetics Institute’s C. David Allis Travel Award 2025. The award was conferred upon her during a distinguished annual function held in Philadelphia, United States.
Dr. Hasan, currently a Postdoctoral Fellow at the world-renowned Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia, has been deeply engaged in pioneering research in cancer epigenetics for the past three years. Her commitment and outstanding contributions to the field were recognized earlier as well, as she was a recipient of the Fox Chase Fellowship last year.
Academic Journey and Research Excellence
Dr. Hasan embarked on her academic journey in the field of biotechnology and cancer research at Integral University, Lucknow, where she completed her M.Tech in Biotechnology followed by a Ph.D. in Cancer Research. Her academic excellence and passion for advancing cancer treatment methodologies led her to pursue further research in the United States.
With a keen focus on the role of epigenetics in cancer progression and treatment, Dr. Hasan has been contributing significantly to cutting-edge research in the field. Her work has the potential to revolutionize cancer therapeutics, particularly in understanding gene regulation mechanisms and targeted drug development.
Significance of the C. David Allis Travel Award
The C. David Allis Travel Award is a prestigious recognition named after the renowned cancer scientist C. David Allis, who made groundbreaking contributions to epigenetics. This award provides recipients with an invaluable opportunity to travel within the United States and internationally to engage in advanced research collaborations, attend conferences, and exchange knowledge with leading experts in the field. The initiative aims to foster scientific exploration and innovation by facilitating exposure to global research advancements.
Annual Function and Symposium Highlights
The award ceremony took place at the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia on March 6, 2025, as part of the highly anticipated Annual Cancer Epigenetics Symposium. This event served as a global platform for researchers, scholars, and industry leaders to discuss the latest advancements in epigenetics and its impact on cancer treatment. The conference welcomed participants from around the world and provided a unique space for networking and collaboration among scientists working at different levels of expertise.
One of the primary objectives of the international symposium was to bring world-class scientific knowledge to a global audience, making complex research findings accessible across different educational levels. Topics discussed during the symposium ranged from gene regulation mechanisms and 3D genome organization to aging, therapeutics, and innovative approaches in cancer treatment.
The symposium featured a compelling keynote address delivered by eminent scientists, including Dr. Anne Brunet, a distinguished professor at Stanford University, and Dr. Robert Kingston, the Chief Academic Officer at Massachusetts General Hospital and a professor of genetics at Harvard Medical School. Their insights into the future of cancer research and epigenetics inspired young researchers and established scientists alike.
Recognition of Global Talent in Cancer Research
Dr. Hasan was among a select group of researchers who received the C. David Allis Travel Award this year. Other recipients of this prestigious honor included:
- Chloe Azadegan
- Millie Coombes
- Aidan Douglas
- Dharmendra Kashyap (India)
- Rebecca Smith
- Martin Walsh
The inclusion of Dr. Hasan and fellow Indian researcher Dharmendra Kashyap in this distinguished list reflects the growing impact of Indian scientists in global cancer research.
Industry Participation and Research Collaborations
In addition to the symposium sessions, the event featured an extensive poster session, where in-person attendees had the opportunity to present their research findings and interact with experts. Representatives from several major pharmaceutical companies, including Arima Genomics, AstraZeneca, CAMP4 Therapeutics Corporation, Daiichi Sankyo, and VYNE Therapeutics, were present at the event. Their participation emphasized the role of industry-academia collaboration in advancing cancer therapeutics and drug development.
A Proud Moment for Lucknow and India
Dr. Adria Hasan’s achievement is a testament to her unwavering dedication, academic excellence, and commitment to pushing the boundaries of cancer research. Hailing from Lucknow, she has brought immense pride to her hometown and the scientific community in India.
It is also worth noting that Dr. Hasan comes from a family with a strong intellectual background. She is the daughter of Lucknow-based senior journalist Masoodul Hasan, who has made significant contributions to the field of journalism.
Her recognition on an international platform underscores the potential of Indian researchers in the global scientific landscape. With such accolades, she is set to further contribute to cancer research, bringing hope for improved treatments and better patient outcomes worldwide.
Dr. Adria Hasan’s receipt of the C. David Allis Travel Award is not just a personal achievement but also an inspiration for aspiring scientists in India. Her journey from Integral University, Lucknow, to one of the leading cancer research institutes in the world showcases the importance of perseverance, dedication, and passion in the field of science. With her continued efforts, the future of cancer research appears promising, and her work is expected to make meaningful contributions to the fight against cancer on a global scale.
