Departments / Department of Cancer Research

Department of Cancer Research

About Department

The department is oriented towards enhancing the scientific knowledge and devising new technologies in order to fight cancer. Using contemporary molecular biology techniques, the department addresses cancer biology, response of cancer to treatment and novel therapeutic interventions. 

Mission

To advance the war against cancer through meticulous research, modern molecular biology practices and networking that bring the findings of the laboratory into clinical practice. 


Vision

Position the Department of Cancer Research as a top department in cancer research across the area in order to stimulate remarkable discoveries and equip the next generation of scientists with knowledge to end cancer. 


Labs

Molecular virology

Molecular virology

This Lab is a specialized facility dedicated to studying viruses at the molecular level, focusing on their structure, function, replication, and interaction within the host cells. It is equipped with required tools including PCR machines, centrifuges, and biosafety cabinets to handle viral genetic material and proteins safely. Researchers in this lab work on understanding viral pathogenesis, developing diagnostic methods, and designing antiviral therapies or vaccines. The lab often follows strict biosafety protocols (BSL-2) with negative pressure system it prevents contamination and ensures safe handling of infectious agents. Its work contributes to combating viral diseases, improving public health, and advancing biotechnology.

 

Key facilities include: 

1. Applied Biosystems 7300 Real-Time PCR System   

The system in a sophisticated instrument used for quantitative PCR (qPCR) to amplify and simultaneously quantify targeted DNA or RNA sequences. It utilizes fluorescent dye-based detection to monitor the amplification process in real-time, providing accurate and reproducible results. This system is widely used in research, clinical diagnostics, and forensic analysis for applications such as gene expression studies, pathogen detection, and genotyping.

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2. Heraeus Laboratory Incubator   

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Maintains stable temperature conditions and supports uniform growth environments for studying cell behavior and therapeutic responses.

3. HERAsafe Biosafety Cabinet   

A HERAsafe Biosafety Cabinet (BSC) is a type of enclosed, ventilated laboratory workspace designed to provide a safe environment for handling potentially hazardous biological materials. It offers protection to the user, the sample, and the environment by filtering both incoming and exhaust air through HEPA filters and the UV-lamp ensures contamination-free experiments. HERAsafe BSCs are commonly used in microbiological and biomedical research, clinical laboratories, and pharmaceutical settings to prevent contamination and ensure safety when working with infectious agents or sensitive biological samples.

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4. ALS Deep Freezer (-80 °C)

It is commonly used to preserve biological samples such as DNA, RNA, proteins, cell cultures, and tissues. The extremely low temperature slows down enzymatic and chemical activities, preserving the integrity of these samples for extended periods.

It is also essential for storing sensitive pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and reagents, as well as for cryopreservation of reproductive cells (egg and sperm). This equipment is crucial in scientific research, medical applications, and industrial processes where maintaining extremely low temperatures ensures the stability and longevity of critical materials.

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5. Eppendorf 5804 Centrifuge   

Supports a wide range of applications, including cell harvesting and nucleic acid purification. Provides reliable, high-speed centrifugation, essential for sample preparation in molecular research.

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6. GFL Water bath 

The GFL Water Bath is used to provide a controlled and stable temperature environment for heating or incubating samples. It is commonly used for applications such as thawing reagents, maintaining cell cultures, or conducting chemical reactions at precise temperatures. The water bath ensures uniform heat distribution and is equipped with features like digital temperature control and safety mechanisms for reliable and safe operation.

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Contact:

Dr. Shakhawan Abdulrahman Mustafa

Email: [email protected]

Phone: +964-770-1586077


Molecular Biology Lab II

Molecular Biology Lab II

The department boasts a Level 3 laboratory, equipped with high standard instruments and advanced technologies to ensure precision, safety, and reliability in cancer research.

Key facilities include: 

   GFL Shaking Incubators: Ideal for generating uniform culture conditions, supporting diverse cancer cell studies. 

 

                       
  CO₂ Incubators and Gel Documentation Systems: Facilitating cellular and genetic analysis crucial for cancer diagnostics and therapy development. 

   Advanced Biosafety Infrastructure: Ensuring a secure environment for handling infectious agents and conducting high level experiments. 

Contact:

Dr. Ahmed Barqee

Phone: +9647704288042

Email: [email protected]



Department Extra Information:
Members 3
Labs 2