Welcome Marisa Buchakjian, MD, PhD

We are excited to welcome Marisa Buchakjian, MD, PhD, clinical assistant professor, to our head and neck oncology division. Buchakjian received her MD and PhD from Duke University where her research focus was molecular cancer biology. She completed her residency at the University of Iowa and a fellowship in head and neck oncology here at the University of Michigan. 

Why did you choose the field of otolaryngology-head and neck surgery?
I chose otolaryngology because of the diversity and breadth of the field. The range of surgery types, pathologies, symptoms, anatomic subsites, and patient demographics is fascinating and makes every day at work interesting and an opportunity to learn.  

Tell us about your clinical interests.
I have always been interested in treating cancer patients and gravitated toward head and neck oncology from the start. Cancer is complex from a molecular and epidemiologic standpoint, and head and neck cancer surgeries are intricate and require dedication and focus. 

I am most interested in oral cavity and oropharynx mucosal malignancies, salivary and advanced skin cancers, and microvascular reconstruction. I love having the opportunity to care for my patients long term and support them through their cancer journey.  

Tell us about your research interests.
Research has been an important part of my life for many years. I performed basic science research in college and then completed an MD/PhD program at Duke University with a focus in molecular cancer biology. I also enrolled in the T32 program during residency and did a 2-year postdoc studying mouse models of cancer. 

My current work focuses on a cellular program called epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and how this program uses nutrients and growth factors to promote cancer cell invasion. My lab has characterized a novel cell-based tool to study EMT and has used this to examine cell migration, chemotherapy and radiation resistance, and important differences in RNA expression.  

What do you find to be the most challenging and rewarding aspects of working in otolaryngology?
The most rewarding aspects of my job are helping patients understand their diagnosis and treatment plan, supporting them through treatment, and continuing to encourage them throughout their cancer surveillance. Cancer care requires an enormous level of trust between the patient and provider, and fostering this relationship is extremely rewarding. I love knowing about my patients lives, families, and interests. 

The most challenging part of my job is certainly delivering difficult news and working with patients to plan next steps when the outcome might not be what either of us had hoped for.  

Why did you choose to come to Michigan Medicine?
I chose Michigan Medicine to support the vision and mission of the otolaryngology department. I value excellent patient care, resources to support the success of patients, trainees, and faculty, and an emphasis on research and innovation to make a difference in patients’ lives. 

It is important to me to be a member of an academically-driven division, and the Head and Neck Oncology Program supports numerous clinical, translational, and basic science research projects as well as cutting-edge clinical trials. I am also excited to participate in Rogel Comprehensive Cancer Center activities and to meet potential mentors and collaborators.  

Is there anything you’re excited to do or experience in Ann Arbor or Michigan? 
I have spent one year in Ann Arbor as a fellow so the area is not entirely new to us, but my family is very excited to start to explore Northern Michigan during the summer and to take advantage of the sporting and cultural opportunities through the University.  

What do you like to do outside of work or what are your favorite hobbies?
I have three small children, so we like to spend our time going to parks, playgrounds, and museums. My kids love any and all sporting events, both playing and watching. When it is nice out we like to play baseball and soccer in our yard and throw the frisbee for our dog, Beaker.  

Favorite music genre or artist?
I don’t think this will be popular, but I like bluegrass-style country music, as well as classic rock.