Dr. Song’s research background focuses on adeno-associated virus (AAV) biology, engineering, and gene therapy development. Her AAV journey started at the University of Florida—the birthplace of AAV vectors—under Drs. Arun Srivastava and Mengqun Tan, followed by postdoctoral and early faculty training at the University of North Carolina with Dr. Matthew Hirsch, and industry experience with Dr. R. Jude Samulski. Her journey continues at Gene Therapy Institute at The Ohio State University, where her research centers on AAV biology and ocular gene therapies.

Her early studies demonstrated AAV6 and engineered AAV6 capsids are optimal for hematopoietic stem cells, positioning AAV6 as a preferred vector for gene editing in these cells. Her postdoctoral work supports IND-enabling studies for AAV-mediated therapy targeting MPS-associated corneal blindness. Her AAV biology work includes inverted terminal repeat (ITR) engineering to enhance vector safety and persistence, as well as human-to-human (H2H) translational program to accelerate bench-to-bedside translation.

Her work received honors include the NCBiotech Gene Therapy Fellowship, UNC Research Excellence Award (postdoctoral), ASGCT Career Development Award, and GTI Pilot Award.

Salha Sassi, MD, MS, is a physician-scientist with over eight years of combined experience in clinical medicine, pathology, and biomedical research, with a strong focus on cardiovascular disease and oncology. She has developed expertise in engaging healthcare professionals through scientific dialogue, presenting clinical data, and supporting the safe and effective adoption of emerging therapies. Her work reflects a patient-centered approach and a commitment to advancing innovative treatment strategies.

Dr. Sassi has contributed extensively to cancer research, particularly in lung cancer, melanoma, and sarcoma, including studies on therapeutic resistance and immunotherapy approaches such as tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes. With a background in both clinical practice and research, she has collaborated with multidisciplinary teams, published multiple scientific papers, and presented at national and international conferences. Her combined clinical insight and research experience position her as a valuable contributor to advancements in oncology and cardiovascular care.