Physician Spotlight: Muhammad J. Tariq, MD, Champions New Treatments for Blood Cancers

Muhammad J. Tariq, MD, was drawn to hematology and oncology by the rapidly evolving science and the opportunity to help patients live full lives.

After receiving his medical degree from King Edward Medical University in Lahore, Pakistan, he completed a residency in internal medicine at the John H. Stroger, Jr. Hospital of Cook County in Chicago.

After a fellowship in hematology and medical oncology at the University of Buffalo/Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Dr. Tariq joined the University of Florida College of Medicine as an assistant professor in the Division of Hematology & Oncology. As a member of the bone marrow transplant team, he will focus on patients with lymphoid malignancies.

Get to know him in our Q&A:

Q: How did you end up going into medicine, and why did you decide to specialize in oncology?

A: Since my childhood, my grandparents and my parents shared their dream of me becoming a doctor (the first one in my family). One of the things I learned from them is the act of helping others in all possible ways, whether financially, educationally or lending a hand. The field of medicine is all about helping people in need, so it has always felt lie the right choice for me. My interest in hematology and oncology started with listening to the stories of cancer patients in the classroom. Their journeys and struggles led me to this career path. Oncology is the most rapidly evolving field of medicine. With the availability of newer treatments, I can provide better care to my patients and contribute to the field with research and clinical trials.

Q: What are your research interests, and do you have any current research projects?

A: My clinical and research focus is lymphoid malignancies, including Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, as well as chronic lymphocytic leukemia. I also have a focus on immunotherapy for blood cancer, such as CAR T-cell therapy, bispecific antibodies and stem cell transplant. I am working to build research projects using immune and targeted therapies for relapsed/refractory non-Hodgkin lymphomas.

Q: What is one thing you would like patients to know about how you approach patient care?

A: I want every patient to know that I will always prioritize their well-being as if they were my own family. I will advocate for the safest, most effective treatments while ensuring they feel heard, respected and fully informed.

Q: What is one thing in this field that gives you hope right now?

A: The exceptional caliber of physicians and scientists dedicating their work to developing new cancer treatments and the courage of patients fighting cancer give me hope.

Q: What do you like to do outside of work?

A: In my free time, I enjoy connecting with my family, reading and exploring outdoor parks and gardens. I am also a food enthusiast. These activities provide balance in my life and foster personal growth.