Moores Cancer Center Intern Adam Ramadan Wins Prestigious Kyoto Prize Scholarship, Citing Mentorship and Opportunities as Catalysts
A Rancho Bernardo High School senior, Adam stands out not only for his academic achievements but also for the initiative and curiosity that have defined his journey into scientific research. His fascination with science began at just four years old when a doctor's office poster of the human heart captured his imagination. That moment sparked a lifelong interest in biology, which deepened over the years through educational videos, independent reading, and direct lab experience.
Determined to gain hands-on exposure to scientific research, Adam reached out to several UC San Diego professors seeking mentorship. A familial connection to Switzerland, a place that also happens to be where Dr. Judith Varner, a leading Moores Cancer Center researcher, completed her Ph.D. at the University of Basel, led to a meaningful mentorship that would change the course of his academic journey.
Dr. Varner, a professor in the Department of Pathology and Medicine and co-leader of the Solid Tumor Therapeutics program at Moores Cancer Center, welcomed Adam into her lab, where he volunteers weekly. As a cancer research lab member at Moores Cancer Center, Adam quickly became immersed in work focused on tumor immunology and translational oncology.
Under Dr. Varner's guidance, Adam learned and applied foundational lab techniques such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR), genotyping and cell analysis. These essential tools built his technical proficiency and gave him a window into the complex world of cancer biology. Dr. Varner's lab focuses on understanding how macrophages, immune cells that typically help fight infections, can sometimes be co-opted by tumors to promote cancer growth. The team has developed novel therapeutic approaches to block these pathways, including the PI3K gamma inhibitoreganelisib, currently in Phase II and III clinical trials.
"The first time I conducted a PCR on my own without supervision was huge," Adam said. "It was the first time I felt trusted to do real science and make an impact."
That sense of purpose and belonging deeply influenced Adam's outlook — not just as a student but as a budding scientist. Through his experience in the lab, he came to understand the value of mentorship, precision and perseverance. This very experience formed a key part of his application for the Kyoto Prize Symposium Scholarship.
Initially, Adam applied for the scholarship "just for fun," not expecting to be selected from the competitive pool of candidates. However, his unique academic curiosity, hands-on lab experience, and interdisciplinary interests helped him stand out. When he learned he had won, Adam was both stunned and elated.
"The Kyoto Prize celebrates interdisciplinary contributions, which means so much to me," he said. "In addition to science, I'm also passionate about filmmaking and philosophy. This scholarship recognizes how these fields connect and support one another."
For Adam, the Kyoto Prize isn't just a financial award; it's a validation of his vision for the future. He hopes to pursue a career in research that integrates multiple disciplines to translate discoveries into solutions that improve human health. Whether through oncology, bioengineering, or new therapeutic technologies, Adam is determined to contribute to science in ways that matter.
He also hopes to remain in the UC San Diego community, where his research journey began. Though currently waitlisted, he dreams of attending UC San Diego as an undergraduate and continuing his work in cancer biology.
Working at Moores Cancer Center taught me how important it is to take initiative and value mentorship and collaboration," Adam said. "It was the first time I felt trusted to do real science and make an impact, and that's helped me grow into the kind of scientist and person I hope to become.
Dr. Varner had high praise for her young mentee. "Adam is truly one of the most brilliant high school students I have ever met," she said. "His dedication, curiosity, and drive to understand complex scientific problems are remarkable. I am incredibly proud to see his hard work recognized through the Kyoto Prize."
The Kyoto Prize Symposium Scholarship is awarded annually to outstanding San Diego-area high school students who reflect the values of the Kyoto Prize laureates — individuals recognized for lifetime achievements in advanced technology, basic sciences, and the arts and philosophy. Past recipients of the scholarship have gone on to pursue impactful careers across a range of fields.
Adam joins this distinguished group with a clear sense of purpose, and gratitude for the opportunity that set him on this path. His story is a testament to the power of mentorship, the importance of scientific curiosity, and the potential of young minds when nurtured in the right environment.
Congratulations to Adam Ramadan on this outstanding achievement. Moores Cancer Center is proud to be part of his journey and excited to see where it leads next.