PhD Research Fellow, at University of Miami, United States.
Alexandra McMahon is a dedicated doctoral candidate in Epidemiology at the University of Miami, committed to advancing public health through molecular epidemiology and cancer research. With a strong background in microbiology and public health, she has actively contributed to NIH-funded projects focusing on breast cancer, medical cannabis, and inflammasome analyses. Alexandra’s expertise spans statistical modeling, metabolomics, and epidemiological research, making her a valuable asset in translational medicine. Her leadership in research coordination, publication writing, and conference presentations underscores her commitment to improving patient health outcomes through evidence-based interventions.
Professional Profile
Google Scholar
Education 🎓
- Doctor of Philosophy in Epidemiology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine (2022-Present)
- Specialized coursework: Cancer Epidemiology, Advanced Statistical Methods
- Master of Public Health in Epidemiology, University of Florida (2021-2022)
- Specialized coursework: Epidemiology Methods I & II, Social Epidemiology
- Bachelor of Science in Microbiology and Cell Science, University of Florida (2018-2021)
- Relevant coursework: Advanced Microbiology Lab, Biochemistry, Genetics, Python Programming
Experience 💼
- Doctoral Researcher, UM Cancer Epidemiology Research (2022-Present)
- Leads metabolomics and inflammasome analyses for breast cancer prognosis
- Conducts statistical modeling and develops intervention strategies
- Researcher, UF CRISP Medical Cannabis Study (2021-2023)
- Led qualitative and quantitative studies on medical cannabis for pain management
- Published findings in peer-reviewed journals and conferences
- Research Assistant, Health Promotion Lab (2021-2022)
- Managed participant recruitment and data collection for NIH-funded studies
- Trained junior research assistants in data entry and analysis
Research Interests 📝
Alexandra’s research focuses on cancer epidemiology, molecular biomarkers, and the intersection of public health and precision medicine. She explores the role of metabolomics and multi-omics in predicting breast cancer prognosis, particularly in diverse populations. Additionally, she investigates medical cannabis as a therapeutic intervention for chronic pain and its implications in inflammatory pathways. Her work contributes to developing personalized treatment strategies and improving long-term patient outcomes.
Awards & Honors 🏆
- Cancer Epidemiology Education in Special Populations Fellow, CUNY University (2023)
- University of Miami Doctoral Fellowship, Division of Epidemiology (2022-Present)
- Outstanding MPH Epidemiology Student, University of Florida (2022)
- Top Abstract Award, Cannabis Clinical Outcomes Research Conference (2022)
- Cum Laude, College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, University of Florida (2021)
- Dean’s List, University of Florida (2020)
- Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society (2018)
Top Noted Publications 📚
Medical Cannabis & Chronic Pain
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Perceived Effectiveness of Medical Cannabis Among Adults with Chronic Pain
- Journal: Cannabis
- Year: 2023
- Citations: 15
- Summary: Examines patient-reported effectiveness of medical cannabis for chronic pain management, analyzing dosage, strain, and symptom relief.
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Medical Marijuana Effectiveness for Chronic Pain
- Journal: Journal of the American Geriatrics Society
- Year: 2020
- Citations: 25
- Summary: Investigates the use of medical marijuana for chronic pain relief in older adults, discussing benefits, risks, and patient-reported outcomes.
Metabolomics & Breast Cancer
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Metabolomics in Radiotherapy-Induced Early Adverse Skin Reactions of Breast Cancer Patients
- Journal: Breast Cancer (Dove Medical Press)
- Year: 2024
- Citations: 10
- Summary: Identifies metabolomic biomarkers associated with early skin toxicity in breast cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy.
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Metabolomic Biomarkers for Breast Cancer Prognosis
- Journal: Cancers (Under Review)
- Year: 2024
- Summary: Investigates metabolomic signatures that could serve as prognostic markers for breast cancer progression and treatment response.
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Metabolomics in Radiotherapy-Induced Skin Reactions
- Conference: Proceedings of AACR (American Association for Cancer Research)
- Year: 2023
- Citations: 12
- Summary: Presents findings on metabolite changes in breast cancer patients experiencing skin reactions from radiotherapy.
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Inflammation as a Prognostic Biomarker in Breast Cancer Patients
- Conference: Cannabis Clinical Outcomes Research Conference
- Year: 2023
- Citations: 8
- Summary: Explores inflammation-related biomarkers in breast cancer prognosis and their relationship to cannabis use.
Mental Health & Emergency Response
- Urban Search and Rescue Mental Health Concerns
- Conference: International Firefighter Cancer Symposium
- Year: 2024
- Citations: 5
- Summary: Highlights mental health risks, PTSD, and coping mechanisms among urban search and rescue workers, with a focus on cancer risk and psychological stress.
Conclusion
Is Alexandra McMahon a strong candidate for a Best Researcher Award. Yes, she is a highly competitive candidate with a well-rounded profile, including impactful publications, funded research, leadership roles, and conference awards. With continued high-impact research, increased grant funding, and broader research scope, she could be an even stronger contender for prestigious research awards in the future.