Leading with Purpose: How Dr. Maryam Jamil Inspires the Next Generation of Scientists
By: Chanelle Kamga
Department of CMGM, VCU School of Medicine
Email: Kamganguekacb@vcu.edu
Date: 14th November 2025
Dr. Maryam Jamil, a postdoctoral fellow and vice president of the CMGM postdoc association in the department of Cellular, Molecular, and Genetic Medicine, in Dr. Ashley Cowart’s lab, is advancing our understanding of how specific lipids influence the development and progression of liver cancer. Her work focuses on uncovering the metabolic changes that drive hepatocellular carcinoma and, in turn, exploring lipid-based pathways that could one day serve as novel therapeutic targets. Through her research, Dr. Jamil aims to bridge the gap between basic biochemical mechanisms and the development of more effective, targeted cancer treatments.
Beyond her work at the bench, Dr. Jamil recently made an impressive mark on the national stage by serving as the organizer and co-chair of the Trainee Retreat Programming Committee for CABTRAC 2025 (Cancer Biology Training Consortium). CABTRAC is a nationally recognized organization that connects more than 80 U.S. institutions and partners with the NIH’s National Cancer Institute to strengthen cancer biology training across the country. After attending the 2024 CABTRAC conference, she was selected to help lead the 2025 retreat, an acknowledgment of her leadership, professionalism, and commitment to fostering collaboration among emerging cancer scientists.
Reflecting on the experience, Dr. Jamil shared that the most memorable moment came when the trainees she helped organize the event for personally thanked her. “It was a genuine reminder of why mentorship and community matter so much to me,” she said. Having experienced firsthand the value of strong mentorship in her own scientific journey, Dr. Jamil is passionate about offering that same support to others. “I’ve seen how much mentorship has shaped my own journey as a scientist, so I’m driven to offer that same guidance and encouragement to those coming up next.”
Stepping into a national leadership role came with its many challenges, but Dr. Jamil not only embraced them but also welcomed them with optimism and perseverance. One advice to other trainees who want to take on leadership roles in science is deeply encouraging: “At first, it may feel overwhelming, and you might doubt your ability to lead, but don’t let that hold you back. Leadership is a skill that develops with experience, and taking that first step is the most important part.”
Dr. Jamil’s dedication to mentorship, scientific inquiry, and collaboration serves as an inspiration to her peers and trainees alike. VCU celebrates Dr. Jamil’s leadership and looks forward to seeing how her ongoing contributions will continue to shape the field of cancer biology and inspire future generations of researchers.