MEET THE TEAM
Dr. Shruti Bansal, PhD
I am an Associate Research Scientist in the Department of Radiation Oncology at Columbia University Irving Medical Center, with a background in immuno-oncology research. At the Spina Lab, I focus on targeting the adenosine signaling axis to help overcome tumor radioresistance. I’m excited to drive the development of new cancer therapeutics and help shape future clinical trials in partnership with physician-scientists at Columbia and collaborators nationwide.
Chelsea Rahiman
I recently graduated from Stony Brook University, where I focused on research in Microbiology and Immunology. In the Spina Lab, I coordinate tissue collection for immunologic assays, support preclinical studies on radiotherapy and immunotherapy, and manage our regulatory protocols and lab operations. What I love most about science is how every answer leads to new questions—there's always something more to explore.
Dr. Krishan Saini, PhD
I am a postdoctoral research scientist in the Department of Radiation Oncology. I’m currently exploring adenosine signaling and radiation therapy in preclinical murine models of lung cancer. I love science because it pushes us closer to uncovering the ultimate truths behind drug resistance, immune escape, and maybe even the deeper realities of the world itself.
Dr. Luis Aparicio
de Santiago, PhD
I am a Research Associate Scientist at Columbia University with a multidisciplinary background in theoretical particle physics, mathematics, machine learning, biology, and music. My work focuses on advancing computational biology through an interdisciplinary framework that combines mathematics, statistical physics, machine learning, and genomics to address pressing biomedical challenges, particularly in cancer research. Recently, I’ve been exploring natural language processing, protein language models, and generative deep learning, with attention to both practical applications and theoretical foundations.
Brian Ragaishis
I am a research assistant in the Spina Lab. I am currently investigating tumor and immune system responses to α- and β-emitting radiopharmaceuticals in various murine models of prostate cancer. I earned my B.S. in Biological Sciences from USC in 2024, where I studied marine microbial communities and biogeochemical cycling. In the coming years, I plan to pursue a Ph.D. and stay at the forefront of biomedical research.
Dr. Chang Liu, PhD
I am a post-doctoral fellow working jointly in the Obradovic and Spina Labs. I am a bioengineer with a background in mechanobiology, tissue engineering, computer graphics, and deep learning. I’m currently combining computational analysis of spatial RNA-Seq data with experimental validation of cell-cell interactions. I love science because it lets me bridge complex systems and creativity — especially when I get to visualize biology like an artist would.
Dr. Jason Cham, MD
I am a hematology/oncology fellow at Columbia University, where I study the effects of adenosine signaling inhibition on non-small cell lung cancer in the Spina Lab. I earned a BA in Molecular and Cell Biology (Immunology) and a BS in Bioengineering from the University of California, Berkeley. I went on to complete medical school at the University of California, San Francisco and an internal medicine residency at Scripps Clinic/Scripps Green Hospital. I’m excited to help develop new therapies for our patients!
Dr. Matthew Ehrlich, MD
I am a hematology/oncology fellow focused on clinical and translational research in genitourinary cancers. I originally studied chemistry and worked with synthesized polymers in college, which sparked my interest in the medical applications of biopharmaceuticals — particularly in oncology and how translational science can drive clinical efficacy. I completed medical school at the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell and my Internal Medicine residency at Columbia University Medical Center.
Courtney Maurice Burress IV
I am an undergraduate student at Columbia University majoring in Biochemistry on the pre-med track, currently serving as a research intern in the Spina Lab. I’ve previously conducted research at institutions in my hometown of Chicago, Illinois, including Northwestern University and the University of Chicago. I hope to build on these experiences as I work toward earning my MD-PhD.
Joshie Amposta
I am an executive partner supporting the Spina Lab, where I help manage scheduling, communications, and special projects — including the development of the lab’s website. I earned my B.S. in Management Accounting from the University of San Agustin, where I first discovered my love for building organized, systems-driven workflows. I’ve really enjoyed becoming part of a collaborative, science-driven environment
(even from afar!).
Maierdan (Mardan) Palihati
I am a postdoctoral research fellow in the Spina Lab. I study the immunologic mechanisms underlying radioligand therapies for metastatic prostate cancer. My work focuses on understanding how targeted radioligand therapy shapes tumor–immune interactions to inform the next generation of therapeutic strategies. Before joining the lab, I earned my medical degree in Shanghai and developed a strong interest in translational cancer research. My long-term goal is to become a physician-scientist who bridges clinical care and laboratory discovery—identifying the biological puzzles behind malignant cancer and developing novel approaches to treat them. Outside the lab, I enjoy swimming, jogging, and exploring New York City’s vibrant cultural scene.