Research Abstract

I am a GI oncologist and lab-based investigator at Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Assistant Professor at Harvard Medical School, and Associate Member of the Broad Institute. Our lab research focuses on defining the fundamental mechanisms that enable gastrointestinal cancers to initiate by resisting differentiation, studying both tumor-intrinsic and -extrinsic factors. We specialize in dissecting the molecular, epigenetic, and structural roles of pioneer transcription factors like SOX9 and their capacity to promote a stem-like and fetal-like programs that block differentiation, expand lineage plasticity, and prevent cellular turnover during cancer initiation. Leveraging mechanistic insights, our team has developed genome-engineered cellular biotechnologies to systematically screen genetic and chemical perturbations, uncovering novel regulators and therapeutic vulnerabilities. Recent work from the lab has identified key differentiation barriers in colorectal cancer and shown how disrupting chromatin-based programs can reprogram cancer cells for therapeutics gains. Looking ahead, our lab is pursuing structure-guided targeting of SOX9 and deploying innovative genetic mouse models to interrogate its role in oncofetal reprogramming. I am deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of physicians and scientists by fostering a collaborative, rigorous, and inclusive research environment.