This month, we feature Shahid Banday, PhD, as our Postdoc Spotlight. Dr. Banday is a postdoctoral associate in the lab of Dr. Matthew Hemming in the Division of Hematology/Oncology. 

Hometown? 
I am originally from Kashmir, a region known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. 
 
What is your research focus? 
From 2018 to 2024, I had the privilege of working in Dr. Michael Green's lab at UMass Chan Medical School, where I built a strong foundation in cancer biology and genomics. In 2025, I transitioned to Dr. Matthew Hemming’s lab, where I now focus on using broad profiling and functional genomics to uncover oncogenic mechanisms in diverse sarcoma subtypes. It’s an exciting new chapter in my research journey, filled with opportunities to push the boundaries of science and contribute to transformative discoveries.  

Why did you choose UMass Chan for your postdoctoral studies? 
I chose UMass Chan for my postdoctoral studies due to its outstanding reputation in biomedical research and its collaborative and innovation-driven environment. The opportunity to work with Dr. Green, a leader in cancer biology and functional genomics, was a key factor in my decision. His lab's pioneering work aligned perfectly with my research interests in oncogenic mechanisms and epigenetic regulation. Moreover, UMass Chan promotes a highly supportive and collaborative atmosphere, encouraging scientific curiosity, mentorship, and career growth. Being part of such a prestigious and dynamic research community has been an incredible experience, shaping my growth as a scientist.  

During my time in the late Dr. Green's lab, my research focused on elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying Ewing’s Sarcoma (ES), particularly the regulation of the oncogenic fusion protein EWSR1::FLI1. Through a genome-scale CRISPR/Cas9 screen, we identified C1GALT1 as a critical regulator of EWSR1::FLI1 expression in ES cells. We demonstrated that C1GALT1 stabilizes SMO, a key component of the Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway, through O-glycosylation, thereby activating downstream signaling. This process is essential for ES cell survival and tumor progression. Additionally, we found that pharmacologically inhibiting C1GALT1 with itraconazole (ITZ), a well-characterized and potent small molecule approved by the FDA nearly 30 years ago for treating a non-cancerous condition, impairs Hh signaling and reduces EWSR1::FLI1 expression, leading to diminished cell viability and tumor growth. Our findings position C1GALT1 as a potential therapeutic target in ES and highlight the efficacy of ITZ in disrupting this signaling pathway.  

Where is your favorite place to travel for vacation and why?  
One of the most breathtaking places I’ve visited is Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada. Walking through it is surreal. The fiery red rock formations felt like stepping onto another planet. The stunning landscapes, ancient petroglyphs, and dramatic sandstone waves made it a truly mind-blowing experience, but my love for adventure doesn’t stop on land. Recently, I’ve developed a passion for water sports and the thrill of exploring life beneath the waves. Next on my travel bucket list is scuba diving in top scuba spots in the U.S., discovering vibrant marine life. Scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef, Australia, remains the ultimate dream. Whether it’s the fiery landscapes of the desert or the serenity of the ocean depths, I’m all about chasing unforgettable experiences.  

What topping does not belong on pizza? 
Pineapple doesn’t belong on pizza because it disrupts the perfect balance of flavors—kind of like an unwanted mutation in a well-planned experiment!  

 In your spare time, what TV show do you binge?   
The British sitcom “Mind Your Language” is my all-time favorite TV show.  

 Favorite holiday? 
My favorite holiday is Eid al-Adha because it is a time of gratitude, generosity, and sacrifice. It emphasizes the values of compassion, sharing, and helping the less fortunate, bringing families and friends together in a spirit of kindness. It commemorates Ibraham's (AS) devotion to Allah.