Cross Cancer Institute
Advancing cancer research through innovative experimental approaches, collaborative science, and cutting-edge molecular biology techniques at the University of Alberta
The Division of Experimental Oncology conducts innovative, laboratory-based research that bridges fundamental biological discovery with clinical application to improve cancer patient outcomes. Located within the Cross Cancer Institute, our research embraces a "bench-to-bedside" integration that transforms scientific insights into tangible therapeutic advances.
Cutting-edge experimental approaches to understand cancer biology and develop novel therapeutic strategies.
Multidisciplinary teams working together to tackle complex challenges in cancer research and treatment.
Bridging laboratory discoveries with clinical applications to improve patient outcomes and quality of life.
Our distinguished faculty members lead groundbreaking research programs in experimental oncology
Principal Investigator
Investigates fundamental mechanisms of DNA damage repair with focus on B-cell malignancies, particularly multiple myeloma. Research bridges basic DNA damage response biology with translational oncology.
Principal Investigator
Internationally recognized leader in cell nucleus, chromatin structure, and genome stability research. Pioneered discovery that chromatin behaves like a gel rather than liquid.
Director, Division of Experimental Oncology
Explores cancer through developmental biology lens, focusing on glioblastoma, metastatic cancers, and fatty acid binding proteins in cancer metabolism.
Principal Investigator
Leader in DNA damage and repair field, specializing in Polynucleotide Kinase/Phosphatase (PNKP) enzyme research and therapeutic development for cancer treatment.
Principal Investigator
Dedicated to understanding cell division process and targeting errors for cancer therapy. Focus on mitotic checkpoint and synthetic lethality approaches.
Faculty Member
Investigates relationship between intestinal mucosal immune system and genomically unstable tumors for immunotherapy development.
Faculty Member
Focuses on Notch signaling pathway in ovarian cancer initiation, progression, and metastasis for therapeutic target identification.
Faculty Member
Investigates DNA damage response pathways and develops pharmacological strategies targeting DDR for personalized cancer medicine.
Faculty Member
Leads translational research program focused on prostate cancer through bench-to-bedside approach targeting metastatic processes.
Faculty Member
Studies melanoma development through developmental biology and epigenetic regulation, focusing on histone modifications in cancer.
Faculty Member
Develops advanced molecular imaging techniques using PET and MRI for cancer diagnosis and treatment monitoring.
Faculty Member
Investigates brain tumor biology with focus on tumor-initiating cells and immune system interactions.
Our research programs unite around fundamental themes that drive cancer understanding and treatment
Investigating the intricate mechanisms that maintain genomic integrity and how their failure contributes to cancer development. Our researchers explore DNA repair pathways, chromatin dynamics, and cellular responses to genotoxic stress.
Understanding how cells regulate division and how checkpoint failures lead to cancer. Research focuses on mitotic processes, kinase regulation, and exploiting cell cycle vulnerabilities for therapeutic benefit.
Exploring cancer as a disease of hijacked developmental programs and altered cellular metabolism. Research investigates how normal developmental pathways are corrupted in cancer and how metabolic rewiring drives tumor progression.
State-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge equipment supporting innovative cancer research
Advanced microscopy systems for cellular and molecular visualization including confocal and super-resolution imaging.
Comprehensive molecular biology equipment including PCR, qPCR, Western blotting, and protein purification systems.
Multi-parameter analysis capabilities for cell cycle studies, apoptosis detection, and protein expression analysis.
Controlled radiation exposure systems for studying DNA damage responses and radiation biology in cancer cells.
High-performance computing resources for genomic and proteomic data analysis and computational biology research.
Sterile cell culture facilities with incubators, biosafety cabinets, and specialized equipment for cell line maintenance.