Research Team

Dr. Faria Khan is an air pollution toxicologist. Her research focuses on the toxicity of chemicals of emerging concern (CECs), with a specific focus on their involvement in the development and progression of cancer in airway epithelial cells. This research delves into the molecular mechanisms underlying  cellular plasticity caused by these CECs. The findings from this study have the potential to shape public health policy decisions.

Dr. Megan Solan is an environmental toxicologist. Her research focuses on the mechanisms of cellular plasticity that are induced by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in human airway epithelial cells. Understanding how environmental exposures affect mechanisms of cellular plasticity can offer vital insights into disease pathogenesis and contribute to public health improvement.

Dr. Hyo Jin Kim is a food scientist and immunologist. Her research focuses on elucidating the signaling pathways and damage responses in airway epithelial cells caused by exposure to environmental pollutants and underlying disease conditions, such as asthma. By investigating the mechanisms of epithelial cell damage and repair, her goal is to develop strategies that mitigate the adverse effects of environmental pollutants on respiratory health, ultimately contributing to improved public health outcomes.

Dr. Chim Mwase is an airway epithelial cell biologist. Her research focuses on the role of tissue factor proteins contained in extracellular vesicles released by mechanically compressed airway epithelial cells. Mechanical compression mimics the mechanical effect of the airway epithelium in the narrowed airway during asthma exacerbations. Thus, her goal is to identify the role of tissue factor protein in asthma pathogenesis.