Dr. Salem is an Adj. Professor, Academy Research Fellow, and Principal Investigator (Group Leader) at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, where he leads the Head and Neck Oncobiome Group.
As a dentist-scientist with a clinical background in dentistry, Dr. Salem brings a translational perspective to cancer research, connecting oral health, microbiology, tumour biology, and precision medicine. His research focuses on the mechanisms by which oral bacteria, microbial products, and the tumour microbiome influence head and neck cancer development, progression, invasion, and metastasis.
Dr. Salem has extensive experience in coordinating large-scale, multicentre international research projects and mentoring doctoral researchers and postdoctoral scientists. He also contributes actively to the scientific community as a reviewer and editorial board member for more than 20 international peer-reviewed journals, and has been invited as a keynote speaker at several international cancer research meetings.
In recognition of his early-career contributions to science, Dr. Salem received the Early-Stage Researcher Award in 2013 at a European Cooperation in Science and Technology meeting. He has also served in academic board roles at the University of Helsinki and contributed to the organization of several international scientific conferences.
Outside academia, Dr. Salem enjoys reading, writing, and sports.
Saika Hasnat, DDS-Candidate, Doctoral Researcher. The Doctoral School in Health Sciences, University of Helsinki
Sini Karinen, DDS, MSc, Doctoral Researcher. The Doctoral School in Health Sciences, University of Helsinki
Shrabon Hasnat, DDS, Doctoral Researcher. The Doctoral School in Health Sciences, University of Helsinki.
Roosa Kosonen, DDS-Candidate, Research Assistant
Marjut Metsäniitty, DDS, MSc, PhD, Postdoctoral Researcher
Rabeia Almahmoudi, DDS, PhD, Postdoctoral Researcher
Marcelina Bilicka, MSc, Research Assistant
Roosa Hujanen, MD, PhD, Postdoctoral Researcher
Nehir Erten, BSc, MSc, Research Intern
Juha Heikkinen, Research Intern
Sofia Sharkawy, MSc, Erasmus+ Exchange student