Khawla Sami Alkuraya

Prof. Khawla Alkuraya is a physician-scientist and the leader of Human Cancer Genomic Research at the Research & Innovation Centre, KFSHRC. She completed residency training in Pathology and fellowship training in Molecular Diagnostics at Georgetown University Hospital and is board-certified in Clinical Pathology.

Her research focuses on defining the molecular landscape of cancers prevalent in Saudi Arabia and translating population- specific genomic discoveries into precision oncology. Under her leadership, KFSHRC has contributed to major international cancer genome initiatives, including the International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC). Professor Al-Kuraya has authored more than 150 peer-reviewed publications and presented over 300 abstracts at international scientific meetings. Her work has been recognized through national honors and leadership roles in scientific governance and advisory bodies.

Cancer genomics and molecular profiling of solid tumors

Precision oncology and translation of genomic discoveries into clinical practice

Molecular diagnostics and advanced genomic technologies

Hereditary cancer risk assessment and multigene testing strategies

Population-specific cancer biology with emphasis on Middle Eastern cohorts

Leadership of national and international cancer genome initiatives, including ICGC programs

Integration of genomics into clinical pathology workflows

Strategic research leadership, scientific governance, and innovation program development

Prof. Alkuraya earned her medical degree from King Saud University in 1994. She completed pathology residency training and fellowships in pathology and Molecular Diagnostics at Georgetown University. She is certified by the American Board of Pathology and licensed by the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties. At KFSHRC, she serves as Principal Clinical Scientist and Senior Consultant and leads Human Cancer Genomic Research programs. She is also Professor of Pathology at Alfaisal University and has held academic appointments with the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Her career spans translational research leadership, national program development, and contributions to international scientific initiatives.