Kashmiri Scholar Wins Prestigious Global Research Award for Cancer Breakthrough

Srinagar: In a significant recognition of Kashmiri scientific excellence, Umar Majeed Khawaja, a distinguished researcher from the University of Kashmir’s Department of Clinical Biochemistry, has been honored with the Global Scholar-in-Training Award (GSITA) 2025 by the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR). This prestigious award, conferred upon only 15 researchers worldwide, acknowledges exceptional contributions to cancer research.

Khawaja is among the two Indian scholars selected for this accolade, the other being a researcher from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi. His groundbreaking work on colorectal cancer has earned him an invitation to the AACR Annual Meeting in Chicago (April 25-30, 2025), where he will present his research and engage with leading global oncologists. This fully-sponsored opportunity will allow him to collaborate with experts and explore the latest advancements in oncology.

Advancing Kashmir’s Research Footprint on a Global Stage

This achievement marks a pivotal moment for Kashmir’s scientific community, reinforcing the region’s growing presence in international biomedical research. The Vice Chancellor of the University of Kashmir, Professor Nilofer Khan, hailed Khawaja’s recognition as a testament to the university’s rising global research stature. She stated:

“This is a proud moment for Kashmir University and a validation of our commitment to high-quality research. Umar’s success will inspire young researchers and strengthen our scientific collaborations at an international level.”

Khawaja is currently pursuing his PhD under the mentorship of Dr. Reena Singh (Lovely Professional University, Punjab) and Dr. Shoukat Ahmad Gani (University of Kashmir). His research focuses on the anti-cancer potential of Rheum webbianum, a medicinal plant indigenous to the Himalayan region. The findings from his work hold promise for developing novel cancer therapies based on natural compounds.

Bridging Science and Society in Kashmir

Expressing his gratitude, Umar Majeed Khawaja emphasized the importance of perseverance in scientific research. He remarked:

“This award is a recognition of the dedication of researchers who work in challenging environments. My study contributes to a deeper understanding of cancer biology and potential treatments. I hope this inspires young scientists in Kashmir to pursue ambitious research goals.”

Apart from his academic endeavors, Khawaja has actively contributed to cancer awareness initiatives in Kashmir, advocating for early diagnosis and preventive strategies. His work has been published in leading international scientific journals, and he is a peer reviewer for several high-impact publications.

His success underscores Kashmir’s potential as a hub for cutting-edge scientific inquiry, positioning the region’s researchers as key contributors to the global fight against cancer.