Romanian scientist in the U.S. rewrites treatments for serious diseases using algorithms

Romanian-born Professor Mihai Pop, a leading scientist at the University of Maryland in the U.S., is developing innovative treatments for serious diseases by leveraging mathematical algorithms to analyze the human microbiome. His work aims to provide oncologists with new tools to enhance the effectiveness of cancer therapies.

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I can say the transition was somewhat easy.

Pop, who co-directs the Center of Excellence in Microbiome Sciences at the University of Maryland, explained in an interview with "Adevărul" that his algorithms act as a "secret weapon." They enable doctors to "read" the microbiome, a complex ecosystem of microorganisms within the body, to better target diseases like cancer and combat the growing threat of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Reflecting on his academic journey, Pop recalled leaving Romania in the 1990s for doctoral studies in the U.S. He described his transition to a top American university, Johns Hopkins, as smoother than expected, attributing this to the welcoming environment and supportive colleagues. "I can say the transition was somewhat easy," he stated, noting his youth at the time made him more open to new connections.

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mathematical algorithms have become the 'secret weapon' through which oncologists can read the microbiome to increase the effectiveness of cancer treatments.

While his initial research focus was not aligned with the Romanian academic system post-revolution, Pop has recently re-established connections. He attended a Smart Diaspora conference in Cluj in November, fostering new contacts and continuing to share project updates with former colleagues. He also clarified that biotechnology is a debate that is "more social than scientific," and cautioned against commercial myths surrounding "treating" aging or the capabilities of generative artificial intelligence.

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biotechnology is a debate that is more social than scientific