Yi-Heng Hao, Ph.D.
Research Scientist

Ph.D., Institute of Biophysics - Chinese Academy of Sciences
My studies focus on identifying the molecular mediators of Myc-nick induced migration and metastasis using animal models and organoid cultures.  I am broadly interested in multiple aspects of cellular and molecular biology and previously studied the regulations of intracellular trafficking and autism.
Yi-Heng.Hao@@utsouthwestern.edu

Maria del Carmen Lafita Navarro, Ph.D.
Postdoctoral Researcher

Ph.D., Molecular Biology and Biomedicine, University of Cantabria, Spain
My research focuses on identifying and characterizing metabolic pathways that regulate the progression of Myc-driven cancers in a transcription-independent manner.  I joined the Sorrell Lab in February 2016, before that I was a graduate student at the University of Cantabria in Spain.  There, I studied the function and regulation of the MXD family of proteins, which are MYC transcriptional antagonists. Outside the lab, I enjoy playing sports, especially Ultimate Frisbee.
MariadelCarmen.LafitaNavarro@utsouthwestern.edu

Niranjan Venkateswaran
Research Associate

M.S., Biotechnology, University of Texas at Dallas
I am investigating the function of Myc-Nick-induced lysine acetylation in cancel cell survival.  My research goals are to contribute to improved understanding of mechanisms involved in chemotherapy resistance.  Previously, I worked as a research associate in the Simmons Cancer Center at UTSW, studying the vulnerabilities of KRAS in lung cancer.  In my leisure I enjoy reading books, playing cricket, and soccer.
Niranjan.Venkateswaran@utsouthwestern.edu

Michael Mitchell, M.D.
Clinical Fellow

D.O., Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine, Harlem, NY
I am a clinical fellow in Pediatric Hematology/Oncology.  My research focuses on the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor, C-MYC and N-MYC in Neuroblastoma, which is one of the leading causes of cancer-related death in young children.  I have enjoyed bringing a clinical perspective to the lab while learning more basic science and cancer biology.  Some of my hobbies include CrossFit, reading and exploring Dallas.
Michael.Mitchell@utsouthwestern.edu

Chunhui Jiang, Ph.D.
Postdoctoral Researcher

Ph.D., Animal Sciences, Purdue University
My studies focus on dissecting Myc regulatory network during tumor development.  My previous studies focused on stem cells and tissue regeneration.  In my spare time, I like playing basketball and reading books.

Lizbeth Perez-Castro
Graduate Student

B.S., Biology, University of Puerto Rico at Cayey
I started my Ph.D. at UTSW in 2018 and joined the Sorrell lab in February 2019.  I am interested in understanding the role of the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor (AhR) in regulation of colon cancer.  Outside of the lab I enjoy playing board games with friends, dancing and reading.
Lizbeth.Perez-Castro@utsouthwestern.edu