Appointments:
Scientist, Atlantic Cancer Research Institute
Research Interests:
Extracellular vesicles, liquid biopsy, genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics
Enabling liquid biopsy technology for companion diagnostics and prognosis in neurological diseases
My current research is focused on the development of liquid biopsy technologies for use in neurological disease, such as brain cancer. The Atlantic Cancer Research Institute (ACRI) has developed an array of technologies to interrogate multiple molecular parameters, including cell-free DNA and extracellular vesicles (EVs), which are present in biofluids such as plasma and urine. Using these technologies, I am investigating whether the molecular cargo (DNA, RNA, and protein) contained within EVs isolated from patient plasma can be used to diagnose and/or predict recurrence/transformation of brain cancers. The ultimate goal of these studies is to improve our ability to detect the presence of cancer at an early stage, when effective clinical intervention may result in better patient outcomes.
What brought you to your current institution?
I joined ACRI as a Research Associate in 2016. ACRI has an exemplary track record of supporting scientists in cancer research and establishing a balance between basic science and commercialization. I was extremely excited to join ACRI, which is a founding partner in the recently-established New Brunswick Centre for Precision Medicine.
Hometown: Bathurst, NB
Learn More about my research: Atlantic Cancer Research Institute
Involvement with BHCRI to date:
BHCRI Summer Student Award (2021), Cancer Research Training Program Scholarship (2009 and 2010)