Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Fellowship
The Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Fellowship Program is designed to train fellows for careers in academic medicine and provide training in state-of-the-art clinical care and cutting edge clinical and basic science research. Our program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) and accepts three to four fellows yearly through the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP).
Fellows participating in the Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Fellowship Program receive exceptional instruction in the clinical care of patients and become well-prepared to make substantial contributions to our field through leadership and clinical, basic science and translational research. Upon completion of our program, our fellows will meet the eligibility requirements for the subspecialty certification requirements of the American Board of Pediatrics. Pediatric hematology/oncology fellows from MD Anderson Children’s Cancer Hospital have gone on to varied careers across the globe.
Letter from our Program Director
Associate Professor
I am delighted to extend a warm welcome to you on behalf of the Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Fellowship Program at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. As program director, it is my privilege to introduce you to our renowned fellowship program, which stands at the forefront of pediatric cancer care, research and education.
At MD Anderson, we take great pride in our commitment to providing comprehensive training that equips fellows with the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary to become leaders in the field of pediatric hematology-oncology. Our program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) and offers a rigorous yet rewarding three-year curriculum that integrates clinical care, research and scholarly activities.
One of the hallmarks of our program is our multi-pronged approach to pediatric cancer care. As part of one of the largest multidisciplinary pediatric cancer care programs in the nation, fellows will work alongside world-renowned experts in various specialties, including oncology, hematology, stem cell transplantation, neuro-oncology and more. This collaborative environment fosters a rich learning experience and ensures that fellows receive comprehensive training across the spectrum of pediatric hematological and oncological disorders.
Pediatric Hematology/Oncology at MD Anderson benefit from exposure to a diverse patient population, including approximately 2,500 children treated at our institution each year. From the diagnosis and management of hematological diseases to the latest advancements in cancer treatment and stem cell transplantation, fellows are actively involved in every aspect of patient care, under the guidance of experienced faculty preceptors.
In addition to clinical training, our program places a strong emphasis on research and scholarly activities. Fellows have the opportunity to pursue cutting-edge research projects under the mentorship of faculty members who are leaders in their respective fields. Whether it's basic science research, translational research, or clinical trials, our fellows are encouraged to explore their interests and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in pediatric hematology-oncology.
As a fellow in our program, you will have access to state-of-the-art facilities, resources, and support services that are unparalleled in the field. From our dedicated pediatric oncology unit to our stem cell transplant and cell therapy program, MD Anderson offers a comprehensive and collaborative environment where fellows can thrive and grow both personally and professionally.
I invite you to examine all that our Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Fellowship Program has to offer and to consider joining our dynamic and passionate team of clinicians, researchers, and educators. Whether your goal is to pursue a career in academic medicine, clinical practice, or research, we are committed to providing you with the training and support you need to achieve your aspirations and make a meaningful impact in the lives of pediatric cancer patients and their families.
Thank you for considering the Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Fellowship Program at MD Anderson. We look forward to welcoming you to our community and embarking on this transformative journey together.
Meet our Current Fellows
Fellows in the Spotlight
Our fellows lead colorful lives outside of their education and training. Take a look at how our current trainees are making the most of their time in Houston and places that require a passport!
Drs. Ariel Nash, Elysia Cohen (left), Aaron Fan, Olayinka Okeleji, Alexander Hsu, and Adrian Gutierrez enjoy a night out to get to know each other.
Drs. Aaron Fan, Amr Elgehiny, and Faraz Afridi enjoyed dinner outside of work and posed for a selfie.
Dr. Ariel Nash enjoyed the fresh air and sunshine of Saguaro National Park in Arizona during a vacation in 2023.
Dr. Faraz Alfridi recently enjoyed a lovely walk and hike in the mountains of Bali this year.
Drs. Reeja Raj, Samanta Catueno and Maria Frost trying to convince their Program Director to come have dinner with them.
These doctors posed for a selfie prior to dinner at one of Houston's many restaurants. They are Ariel, Olayinka, Aaron, Elysia, and Ramya.
First-Year Fellows
Adrian Gutierrez, M.D., earned his medical degree at The University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. He did his pediatric residency at Texas Tech University Health Center in El Paso, Texas.
Alexander Hsu, M.D., earned his medical degree at the Texas A&M School of Medicine in Bryan, Texas. He fulfilled his pediatrics residency at Driscoll Children's Hospital in Corpus Christi, Texas.
Second-Year Fellows
Samanta Catueno, M.D., earned her medical degree from Faculty of Medical Sciences at the University of Buenos Aires, Argentina. She did her pediatric residency at Driscoll Children's Hospital in Corpus Christi, Texas.
She likes spending time outdoors with her husband and doing activities such as hiking or going on bike rides, and enjoying the many restaurants and concerts Houston has to offer.
Amr Issam Darwish Hassan Elgehiny, M.B.B.Ch., earned his medical degree from Alexandria University Faculty of Medicine, in Egypt. He embarked on his Pediatric residency journey at the American University of Beirut in Lebanon and further expanded his skills with a second residency at the McGovern Medical School at UT Health (University of Texas Health) in Houston, Texas.
Amr is genuinely passionate about cultural diversity and global health, always seeking ways to grow and contribute. With a background in various healthcare systems, he aspires to make a positive impact, especially within children cancer centers in his home country. Outside of learning and working, Amr values simple moments spent with his family in Houston, a city he finds diverse and welcoming, offering numerous opportunities for both personal and professional growth at his trainee level.
Reeja Raj, D.O., earned her medical degree at the Nova Southeastern University College of Osteopathic Medicine in Fort Lauderdale, Fl. She did her pediatric residency at the University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital and Holtz Children’s Hospital in Miami, Fl.
She has a wide range of interests including hemoglobinopathies, bleeding disorders and solid tumor and she is still exploring and keeping an open mind on specialties within hematology – oncology. Originally from Philadelphia, Reeja has been enjoying the warmth of Texas coupled with the diversity of Houston. In her free time, she indulges in reading, yoga and visiting different local coffee shops (of which there are plenty in Houston).
Maria Frost, M.D., earned her medical degree at the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine in St. Maarten. She did her pediatric residency at the Broward Health Medical Center in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
She is still exploring all avenues of specialization within Pediatric Hematology/Oncology. She grew up in New York and truly appreciates the more temperate climate of Houston. When she is not at work, Maria has been enjoying Houston’s culinary cuisine one tasty restaurant at a time.
Third-Year Fellows
Elysia Cohen, M.D., earned her medical degree from Loma Linda University School of Medicine in California. She did her pediatric residency at Westchester Medical Center, Valhalla, New York. Her fellowship research project aims to understand the role of ERK5 S496 phosphorylation in macrophages, and how this contributes to tumor growth.
She is building on previous data that shows that mice in which ERK5 cannot be phosphorylated at S496 display decreased tumor growth compared to wild type mice, and a shift in the tumor associated macrophages away from M2-like macrophages. Her project will be looking into the significance of this shift in the macrophage population. Outside of work she enjoys singing and spending time with family and friends.
Aaron Fan, Ph.D., M.D., earned his doctor of philosophy in biomedical sciences at Augusta University in Augusta, Ga., where he remained to earn his medical degree. Dr. Fan is a transfer on the Accelerated Research Pathway for Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, which he started at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and has transferred to the University of Texas MD Anderson Children’s Cancer Hospital to continue his education with us.
His research interest is in cancer immunotherapies, where for his fellowship project, he is working in the lab of Dr. Friedman, focusing on applications of oncolytic viruses and its combination with other therapies such as cancer vaccines. Outside of work, this doctor enjoys spending time and traveling with his wife, Brooke, and trying out new restaurants in Houston.
Ariel Nash, M.D., earned her medical degree from Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine. She did her combined medicine-pediatric residency at Albany Medical Center in Albany, NY, where she also served as Chief Resident in her 4th year. Ariel is currently working in Dr. Watowich’s lab in the Department of Immunology on the role of CCR7 in the efficacy of cDC1 vaccination against tumor cells and in the recruitment of TILs. Clinically, she is interested in adolescent and young adult oncology, specifically bone sarcomas.
Outside of work, she loves to check out local city and state parks for hiking and camping and the many restaurants in Houston. She also enjoys traveling and hopes to one day visit every national park in the United States.
Olayinka Okeleji, M.B.B.S., completed her medical education at University of Ibadan College of Medicine, Nigeria. She did her pediatric residency at Woodhull Medical and Mental Health Centre, Brooklyn NY, where she also served as Chief resident in her third year. With a dual clinical interest in Hemoglobinopathies and Stem Cell Transplantation/Cellular Therapy, she is currently in Dr. Michael Andreff’s lab where she is involved in research focusing on 'the role of induced potential mesenchymal stem cells (iMSC) in enhancing engraftment during stem cell transplant.'
Beyond her specific medical interests, Olayinka is also passionate about global health initiatives and is on the Global Cancer Care track for trainees. Beyond work, Olayinka enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends. She loves cooking and baking with her girls (aged seven and three) and organizing engaging activities for them. Additionally, she shares a love for travel and exploration with her husband, discovering new places and cultures.
Ramya Ramakrishnan, M.D., earned her medical degree from Gandhi Medical College and Hospital, Secunderabad, India. She did her pediatric residency at University of South Alabama in Mobile, Alabama. Her fellowship research project is on the use of immunotherapy in solid tumors, evaluating CAR-NK cell therapy targeting CD 70 in osteosarcoma, under the guidance of Dr. Nancy Gordon.
She enjoys working in the hematology clinics here at UT Health, specifically the Gulf States Hemophilia and Thrombophilia center. Outside of work, she recently welcomed her first born daughter and loves spending time with her family.
Our Alumni
2021-2024
2024
Faraz Afridi, M.D., Fellow, Hospice and Pallaitve Medicine Fellowship, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Shaikha AlQahtani, M.D., Fellow, Pediatric Transplant and Cellular Therapy (PTCT) Fellowship, Duke Children's Hospital, Durham, North Carolina
Jiasen He, M.D., Fellow, Pediatric Neuro-Oncology Fellowship , MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
Faryal Munir, M.D., Assistant Professor, Phoenix Children's Hospital, Phoenix, Arizona
2023
Jeremy Connors, M.D., Assistant Professor, Pediatrics, MD Anderson Children's Cancer Hospital, Houston, Texas
Emily Rav, D.O., Fellow, Hospice and Palliative Care, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
Sanilla Sarkar, M.D., Assistant Professor, Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida
Irtiza Sheikh, D.O., Assistant Professor, Pediatrics, MD Anderson Children's Cancer Hospital, Houston, Texas
2022
Brandon Brown, M.D., Assistant Professor, Pediatrics, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
Amber Gibson, D.O., Assistant Professor, Pediatrics, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
Adriana Trabal, M.D. , Hematologist-Oncologist, Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital, Hollywood, Florida
2021
Sumit Gupta, M.D., Hematologist-Oncologist, Cure for the Kids Foundation, Las Vegas, Nevada
Dristhi Ragoonanan, M.B.B.S., Assistant Professor, Pediatrics, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston , Texas
2017-2020
2020
David McCall, M.D., Assistant Professor, Pediatrics, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
Avis Harden, M.D., Assistant Professor, Pediatrics, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
Usman Baig, M.D., Assistant Professor, Palliative Care/Neuro-Oncology, Loma Linda University Children's Health, Loma LInda, California
Sana Mohiuddin, M.B.B.S., Hematologist-Oncologist, Women & Children’s, Huntsville, Alabama
2019
Nelda Itzep , M.D., Assistant Professor, Pediatrics, MD Anderson Cancer Center
Brianna Murphy, D.O., Sanford Children's Hospital, Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Grace Nehme, M.D., Hematology-Oncology Consultant, Clemenceau Medical Center, Dubai, UAE
Sheetal Phadnis, M.D., Instructor, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, University of Alabama, Birmingham, Alabama
2018
Branko Cuglievan, M.D., Assistant Professor, Pediatrics, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
Natalie Sloan, D.O., Pediatric Hematology-Oncologist, Norton Children's Cancer Institute, Louisville, Kentucky
Miriam Garcia, M.D., Assistant Professor, Pediatrics, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
April DePombo, D.O., Pediatric Hematology-Oncologist, Golisano Children's Hospital of Southwest Florida, Fort Meyers, Florida
2017
Ryuma Tanaka, M.D., Assistant Professor, Neuro-Oncology, Children's Hospital of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
Angela Shaw, M.D., M.S., Assistant Professor, Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
Pamela Camacho, M.D., Assistant Professor, Hematology-Oncology, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas
For inquiries and questions, contact:
Priti Tewari, M.D.
Associate Professor, Pediatrics-Patient Care
Program Director, Pediatrics
Hematology/Oncology Fellowship
The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
Children’s Cancer Hospital
1515 Holcombe Blvd., Unit 0087
Houston, TX 77030
Phone: 713-792-3497
ptewari@mdanderson.org