Dr. Hanaa Skhoun embarked on her academic journey with a strong foundation in biological sciences, obtaining a Bachelor's degree in Biology and Health Studies in 2014. Building on this, she pursued a Master's degree in Research in Euro-African Biosecurity and Biosafety in 2016. Her academic prowess culminated in a Doctorate in Human Genetics in 2023, showcasing her dedication to advancing knowledge in her field.
Professional Endeavors
Dr. Skhoun's professional journey has been marked by significant contributions to genetic research, particularly in leukemia. Her doctoral research at the Mohammed V Military Training Hospital's Genetic Research Unit focused on studying the involvement of tumor suppressor gene TP53 and oncogenes RAS in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) among Moroccan children. This was followed by a pivotal stage at the Faculty of Sciences in Rabat, collaborating with Laboriad on Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) and the BCR/ABL fusion gene's role in diagnosis and therapeutic monitoring.
Her expertise spans a range of techniques crucial to genetic research, from DNA and RNA extraction to sequencing and mutation analysis. Additionally, she is adept in bioinformatics tools, enabling her to delve deep into genomic data for insights into disease mechanisms.
Contributions and Research Focus
Dr. Skhoun's research contributions have significantly advanced the understanding of leukemia, especially in the Moroccan context. Her work on cytogenetic abnormalities, TP53 and RAS gene profiles in childhood ALL, as well as the association of TP53 gene polymorphisms with ALL risk in Moroccan children, has been published in reputable journals. These publications underscore her commitment to unraveling the genetic intricacies of leukemia, potentially paving the way for targeted therapies and improved prognostic approaches.
Moreover, her involvement in seminars, co-supervision of master's and bachelor's candidates, and continuous pursuit of knowledge through additional training showcase her dedication to both academic and practical aspects of genetic research.
Accolades and Recognition
Dr. Skhoun's academic excellence has been recognized through various accolades, including the Excellence Award from Mohammed V University and a prestigious CNRST Excellence Scholarship. These acknowledgments not only highlight her intellectual acumen but also reinforce her standing as a promising researcher in the genetics domain.
Impact and Influence on Human genetics
Dr. Skhoun's research and academic endeavors have had a tangible impact on the field of human genetics, particularly in leukemia research. By unraveling genetic mechanisms underlying leukemia and contributing to scholarly publications, she has expanded the scientific community's understanding of these complex diseases.
Legacy and Future Contributions
Dr. Skhoun's legacy lies in her dedication to unraveling genetic complexities in leukemia, especially among Moroccan children. Her future contributions are poised to further bridge the gap between genetic research and clinical applications, potentially leading to personalized treatments and improved patient outcomes in leukemia and other genetic disorders.
Human genetics delves into the study of genetic variations, inheritance patterns, and their impact on human health and development. It explores the intricate molecular mechanisms governing traits, diseases, and susceptibility to various conditions across generations. Through advanced technologies like genome sequencing, geneticists unravel the complexities of DNA, identifying genes associated with diseases, understanding genetic disorders, and developing targeted therapies. Human genetics plays a pivotal role in personalized medicine, as it enables tailored interventions based on an individual's genetic makeup, fostering precision healthcare and improving patient outcomes.
Notable Publications