OnCoffee: Muhammad Awidi on Immunotherapy, Advocacy, Rock Climbing, and Career Growth
In this conversation, Dr. Muhammad Awidi shares his inspiring journey—from growing up in Amman to training in Boston and now working at Roswell Park Cancer Center as an oncologist and immunotherapy researcher.
We dive into how early research shaped his path, his advocacy to improve diversity in clinical trials, and his work on how obesity impacts responses to cancer immunotherapy.
We also talk about how he stays grounded outside of medicine—with rock climbing, scuba diving, and a deep commitment to self-care. This episode is full of wisdom for medical students, researchers, and anyone navigating a career in oncology.
Oncoffee interview is part of the OncoDaily Podcast series.
00:00 Introduction
01:53 Choosing between medicine and aviation
05:24 Discovering hematology through early research
08:43 Falling in love with Boston and choosing it for residency
10:26 Advocacy for clinical trial access in underserved communities
13:17 Immunotherapy research at Roswell Park
15:06 How immunotherapy is transforming cancer care
17:21 Anti-smoking advocacy work in Jordan
20:49 The power of scuba diving, rock climbing & self-care
24:25 How “The Power of Your Subconscious Mind” changed his mindset
29:55 Moving to West Virginia to fight lung cancer through care and advocacy
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