Maria Amaya, MD, PhD

Assistant Professor

Our laboratory is dedicated to identifying vulnerabilities in MDS and leukemia stem cells to discover new therapeutic targets. We are committed to translating these discoveries into innovative treatments, with the goal of moving promising therapies from the laboratory to clinical trials.

Jamie Borg

Research Services Professional

Jamie received her BS in Biochemistry from the University of Arizona. After graduating, she continued her work in the Romagnolo lab, studying epigenetic silencing and nutritional targeting of BRCA-1 in breast cancer. She then joined the team at the University of Arizona Cancer Center Human Immune Monitoring Facility processing clinical trial samples for head and neck cancer patients. Jamie moved to Denver and joined the Amaya Lab, investigating proteins that affect mitochondrial function as a way to target leukemic stem cell survival. Outside of the lab, Jamie enjoys spending time with her family, hiking, baking and crocheting.

Geovana Santos

PhD Candidate, Cancer Biology

Geovana Santos is a PhD student in the Cancer Biology Program. Her research focuses on hematologic malignancies, particularly mechanisms of resistance in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and how these mechanisms may contribute to the development of new therapeutic approaches. She earned a B.S. in Biomedical Sciences in Brazil and a graduate certificate in Clinical and Laboratory Hematology. Her previous research focused on the role of immunophenotyping in AML diagnosis and on the relationship between acute promyelocytic leukemia, disseminated intravascular coagulation, and advances in therapy. Prior to beginning her PhD, Geovana worked as a clinical laboratory analyst before transitioning to research as a temporary researcher at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus.

Keishla Gonzalez

Hematology/Oncology Fellow, Pediatrics

Keishla's bio coming soon.

Rachel Kvaal

Research Services Professional

Rachel received her BS in Biochemistry, with research experience spanning molecular biology techniques, genetic modification methods, and bioinformatic analysis. She currently works to support our immunological research through sample processing, flow cytometry, and functional cell-based assays.

Rosana Pereira

Research Services Professional

Rosana's bio coming soon.

Hunter Tolison

PhD Candidate, Cancer Biology Program

Hunter's bio coming soon.