Meet the Minds of CDIB spotlights the diverse faculty who power the department’s groundbreaking research. Through candid interviews, it gives readers a closer look at the career paths, passions, and real-world impacts of UAB researchers shaping the future of medicine.
George Green, Ph.D., is an assistant professor in the Department of Cell, Developmental, and Integrative Biology. Green earned a Bachelor of Science in biology from Limestone College in 2016 and completed his Ph.D. in biology at UAB in 2023.
His primary research focuses on cancer immunology, neuro-oncology, and the gut–brain–tumor axis, with an emphasis on how gut microbiota influence immune cell composition, gene expression, and therapeutic response in glioblastoma.
In addition to his faculty role, Green serves as an associate scientist at the UAB O'Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center and mentors student researchers across UAB biomedical programs. His early inspiration for teaching and scientific research stemmed from an undergraduate professor.
“I had an incredible professor during my undergraduate education whose passion for both teaching and research had a lasting impact on me,” said Green. “I admired not only his scientific expertise but also the values and mentorship he demonstrated, which ultimately inspired me to pursue my Ph.D. at UAB, where he had earned his doctorate.”
After completing his doctorate in biology at UAB, Green remained at the institution as a postdoctoral researcher investigating the complex interplay between the gut microbiome, the immune system, and brain tumors.
During this period, he discovered that guiding students through complex biological concepts was just as fulfilling as bench science. That passion ultimately led him to join CDIB as an assistant professor, where he combines his research background with his enthusiasm for teaching the next generation of healthcare professionals and scientists.
Today, Green teaches across several undergraduate and graduate courses in UAB’s Cancer Biology program, covering topics such as introductory cancer biology, cancer cell growth, cancer genetics, microbiome and cancer, and journal club. He also helps develop new coursework that incorporates emerging technologies like bioinformatics and artificial intelligence. Rather than relying solely on factual memorization, Green focuses on cultivating foundational learning goals.
“My goal is to give students more than factual knowledge, I want them to understand how scientific discoveries are made, how to critically evaluate research, and how to apply evidence-based thinking to real-world biomedical problems,” said Green. “Whether students pursue medicine, research, or another healthcare profession, I hope they leave with curiosity, confidence, and the ability to think like scientists.”
Among his proudest accomplishments at UAB is helping expand the cancer biology curriculum to reflect modern advances in genomics, immunology, microbiome research, and precision medicine. Beyond the curriculum, he finds deep fulfillment in watching his mentees publish scientific papers, gain acceptance into medical schools and Ph.D. programs, and stay in touch as they advance in their careers.
“Some of the moments I value most are the emails from former students sharing their accomplishments or simply thanking me for the role I played in their journey,” said Green.
Knowing that I have had a positive impact on their confidence, curiosity, and career aspirations is what makes teaching so meaningful to me”
When asked what advice he would offer students interested in science, medicine, or biomedical education, Green encourages an open and resilient mindset.
“Be curious, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to fail. Science is built on persistence far more than perfection. Many experiments don’t work the first time, and some of the most valuable discoveries come from unexpected results,” said Green.
“Consistent effort, a willingness to learn, and genuine enthusiasm will take you much further than trying to have all the answers from the beginning!”
Follow along with the Meet the Minds of CDIB series to discover more about the faculty advancing education and scientific discovery at UAB.