Keila Torres, MD PhD MBA FACS

Keila Torres
Department of Surgical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center

Dr. Torres is a past recipient of the SARC Career Development award, and her career focus now spans from sarcoma surgical oncology to sarcoma lab research to entrepreneurial programs. Her laboratory research group provides molecular epigenetic understanding and rationales for epigenetic therapeutic strategies in patients who suffer from high-grade sarcomas, such as malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNSTs).

In addition to Dr. Torres’ research work, she is committed to helping the next generation of scientists and physicians and serves as a mentor in different training programs, such as the U54 Partnership for Excellence in Cancer Research and the Partnership for Careers in Cancer Science and Medicine program at UTMDACC. Further, in collaboration with the MD Anderson Leadership Institute, she launched the MDACC MBA/MHA Summer Internship Program. This program represents a collaboration and partnership with four universities in Texas.

In collaboration with SARC, Dr. Torres drew upon her entrepreneurial training by launching the Catalyst Program, which provides funds and expert support for small-scale projects positioned for rapid progress. These efforts highlight her commitment to patients impacted by sarcomas and to educating the next generation of physicians and scientists.

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