Executive Board

Dr. Maria Jones-Muhammad is a postdoctoral scholar in Dr. Farah Lubin’s lab in the Department of Neurobiology. Her research investigates how in utero cannabinoid exposure affects offspring neurodevelopment, with a focus on the molecular mechanisms that shape neuronal circuit formation, gene expression changes, and sex-specific behavioral outcomes. She also explores the potential of ketogenesis to reverse age-related memory decline. Beyond the lab, Dr. Jones-Muhammad is committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable academic environment for postdocs across all career paths. She and the executive board plan to create safe, supportive spaces where underrepresented postdocs can grow, connect, and thrive — both within and beyond academia.

Dr. Whitney Neal is a postdoctoral trainee in Dr. Laura Rogers’ lab in the Department of Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine & Population Sciences. Her research centers on understanding how physical activity influences biological, psychosocial, and clinical outcomes in chronic health conditions, with particular emphasis on individuals with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and cancer-related immune dysregulation. As a trainee in the Cancer Prevention and Control Training Program (NCI T32CA047888), Dr. Neal works with Dr. Rogers to examine how aerobic exercise influences gut microbiome diversity, inflammatory markers, and psychosocial outcomes in post-primary treatment breast cancer survivors. Beyond her work in the lab, Dr. Neal is passionate about amplifying the voices and lived experiences of underrepresented postdoctoral scholars and trainees across disciplines. In her role as Vice President, she is committed to helping foster inclusive spaces that promote professional development, wellness, and collective empowerment.

Dr. Nicole Caviness-Ashe is an oncology nurse scientist and postdoctoral scholar in the Cancer Prevention and Control Training Program (NCI T32CA047888) under the mentorship of Dr. Timiya Nolan and Dr. Elizabeth Brown. Her research focuses on reducing disparities in blood cancer care and outcomes, with particular interests in multiple myeloma and other hematologic malignancies. Her program of research is centered on four interconnected areas: cancer survival and survivorship, cancer disparities among underserved populations, access to cancer care, and the use of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies to improve healthcare delivery. Across these areas, she seeks to understand how social, geographic, and healthcare system factors contribute to disparities across the cancer care continuum, including timely diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship, particularly among Black and rural communities. Beyond her research, she is passionate about mentorship, supporting the professional development of Black scholars, and building community among postdoctoral trainees. As Career Development Chair for BPA, she is committed to creating opportunities that support the career advancement, professional growth, mentorship, and success of students and postdoctoral scholars

Dr. Mahdi Eskandarian Boroujeni is a postdoctoral scholar in the Department of Neurobiology. His work combines experimental and computational approaches to study neuroinflammation and brain function and has expertise in molecular genetics, neuroimmunology, and bioinformatics. Having lived and worked across academic institutions and research organizations in Asia, Europe, and the United States, Dr. Eskandarian Boroujeni values diverse perspectives and the power of community in advancing both science and personal growth. He is passionate about mentorship, collaboration, and creating spaces where scholars can connect, learn from one another, and build meaningful professional relationships. As Mentorship Taskforce Chair for the UAB Black Postdoctoral Association, he is dedicated to building meaningful connections among postdoctoral scholars, creating opportunities for mentorship, and fostering a supportive community where individuals can learn, grow, and succeed together.