Our laboratory studies how human cells respond to high-energy radiation such as X-rays and gamma rays. Much of our effort focuses on the way that cells repair radiation-induced damage to their genetic material. The laboratory performs basic research to fill in gaps in our understanding of repair pathways. The laboratory also performs applied research to develop ways to sensitize tumor cells to radiation and to better understand and mitigate the risks associated with environmental radiation exposure. Some of our most exciting work involves an attempt to re-engineer the repair machinery so that it can be used to correct genetic defects in stem cells.
My colleagues and I are also developing a clinical proteomics program to identify molecular markers that will aid in early detection of cervical and other cancers.