Dr. Megha Baska is a chemist and preclinical research scientist dedicated to developing tumor-selective therapeutics that will improve outcomes for patients with metastatic and drug-resistant cancers. Her research focuses on the rational design, synthesis, and optimization of targeted drug delivery systems—including small molecules, nanopolymers, and antibody-based platforms. She has developed novel linker chemistries and delivery strategies to enhance tumor-specific targeting, improve therapeutic efficacy, and increase tumor-to-background ratios while minimizing off-target toxicity. Her research aims to advance precision oncology through rational design of delivery systems that selectively target tumor cells and improve clinical outcomes.
Prior to joining UCSF, her research focused on the design, synthesis, and characterization of organic compounds, hydrogel-based supramolecular nanomaterials, and host–guest chemistry for environmental applications. This foundation in chemical synthesis and materials science provided her with strong skills in molecular design and functional characterization. Her current work integrates novel linker chemistries and nanocarrier design to enhance therapeutic selectivity and efficacy of radiopharmaceuticals while minimizing off-target toxicity. Radiopharmaceuticals consist of organic compounds/chelators coordinated with inorganic metals. Her advanced training in inorganic chemistry during her Master’s course has been instrumental in enhancing her expertise in this field.