Dr. Raya Saab

Professor

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Biography

Raya Saab is the Lindhard Family Professor of Pediatric Cancer Biology at Stanford University, specializing in Pediatric Hematology-Oncology. Her research focuses on pediatric solid tumors, particularly rhabdomyosarcoma, investigating the molecular mechanisms of oncogene-induced tumorigenesis and tumor suppressor pathways. Notable contributions include identifying critical roles of tumor suppressors such as p53 and p18Ink4c, and potential therapeutic targets like CDK2 in tumor progression. Saab's lab has revealed the paracrine role of rhabdomyosarcoma-derived exosomes in tumor biology and their impact on stromal cells. She is actively exploring signaling pathways that contribute to the metastasis of pediatric tumors, with an aim to develop targeted therapies. Saab has held various academic and administrative positions, including Director of the Bass Center Tissue Biorepository and Section Chief of Oncology at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital. She completed her medical education at the American University of Beirut and postdoctoral training at St Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Research Interests

Experience

Director

2023-01-01 — Present

Bass Center Tissue Biorepository, Stanford University • Palo Alto, CA, USA

Leads the Bass Center Tissue Biorepository, managing tissue resources for research.

Section Chief, Oncology

2022-01-01 — Present

Lucile Packard Children's Hospital • Palo Alto, CA, USA

Oversees the Oncology division, focusing on pediatric oncology.

Acting Director

2017-01-01 — 2021-12-31

Children's Cancer Institute, American University of Beirut Medical Center • Beirut, Lebanon

Led initiatives to advance cancer research and treatment pathways.

Associate Director Academic Affairs

2014-01-01 — 2016-12-31

Children’s Cancer Institute, American University of Beirut Medical Center • Beirut, Lebanon

Managed academic and administrative functions.

Director

2012-01-01 — 2021-12-31

Pediatric Cancer Research Program • Children’s Cancer Institute, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon

Directed research program focused on pediatric cancers.

Requirements for Stanford University

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.5
TOEFL
Listening
Required:26
Reading
Required:26
Writing
Required:26
Speaking
Required:26
Total
Required:100
GRE General
Verbal
Required:160
Quantitative
Required:165
Analytical Writing
Required:4.5
Overall
Required:4.5
Prerequisites
Bachelor degree from an accredited institution Strong background in mathematics and programming
Application Checklist
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Official transcripts
  • Resume/CV
Specialization Notes

The Computer Science department emphasizes research potential. GRE General is currently optional but recommended for some tracks.