Discovery of cancer cell vulnerabilities and the contribution of the cancer microenvironment to the growth of cancer cells

Discovery of cancer cell vulnerabilities and the contribution of the cancer microenvironment to the growth of cancer cellsThe laboratory is focused on the study of cancer, including discovery of cancer cell vulnerabilities and the contribution of the cancer microenvironment to the growth of cancer cells. Development of new and improved treatments based on this knowledge is a goal. One project is focused on colorectal cancer, a leading cause of cancer death. Recently, we have discovered a vulnerability of colorectal cancer cells and exploited this discovery to develop kinase inhibitors that effectively induce cell death in colorectal cancer cells. The second project is focused on the effects of a tumor suppressor gene, often defective in cancer cells, in endothelial cells. We use a variety of experimental approaches to advance research, including genetic, epigenetic and biochemical approaches to study genes, gene expression, mRNA translation, and proteins; we use a variety of cell culture systems, mouse models of cancer and other diseases, including genetically modified mouse lines; bioinformatics is used to evaluate large datasets. The student will be paired with a post-doctoral fellow in the laboratory and will work under supervision to the extent necessary with the goal of making the experience valuable for the student.