Iulia M. Lazar

Bridging the gap between disciplines to tackle complex biological challenges, Iulia M. Lazar serves as an Associate Professor of Biological Sciences at Virginia Tech. Her pioneering work in the field of proteomics and systems biology is dedicated to unraveling the intricacies of breast cancer cell cycle regulation. With a keen focus on the molecular mechanisms that drive cancer progression, she employs advanced proteomic techniques to identify novel therapeutic drug targets, aiming to revolutionize the landscape of cancer treatment. Professor Lazar's research is particularly centered on the use of ER+ and HER2+ breast cancer cells as model systems. Through these models, she delves into the ways cancer cells manage to circumvent cell cycle checkpoints, a critical aspect of cancer cell proliferation. Her innovative approach combines the power of proteomics with holistic systems biology, providing a comprehensive understanding of the signaling pathways involved in cancer development. A significant aspect of her work involves the development of microfluidic architectures for targeted biomarker detection. This cutting-edge technology enhances the precision and efficiency of identifying biomarkers, which are crucial for early diagnosis and personalized treatment strategies. Her laboratory's efforts have culminated in the identification of over 4000 breast cancer proteins, each representing a potential target for novel anti-cancer drugs and therapies. Professor Lazar's contributions to the field extend beyond her research. She is actively involved in mentoring the next generation of scientists, fostering an environment of curiosity and innovation. Her dedication to education and research excellence is reflected in her numerous publications and presentations at national and international conferences. Her work not only advances our understanding of breast cancer but also exemplifies the power of interdisciplinary research in addressing some of the most pressing health challenges of our time. Through her commitment to scientific discovery and collaboration, Professor Lazar continues to make significant strides in the fight against cancer, paving the way for new therapeutic avenues and improved patient outcomes.