Genetic changes underlying colorectal cancer initiation and progression

In the Gastroenterology Laboratory we are interested in characterising the genetic changes underlying the progression of pre-cancerous colonic polyps to colon cancer. We work closely with clinicians specialising in Gastroenterology, Pathology, Oncology and Genetics to increase our understanding of this disease and improve patient management and outcomes.

Potential Honours and PhD projects will examine candidate genes for a role in the development of colorectal cancer, selected from bioinformatic analysis of genome-wide data including expression arrays, DNA methylation array profiling and next generation exome sequencing. Candidate genes will be examined in a clinically and molecularly well defined series of colorectal polyps and cancers. Functional studies will be conducted in colorectal cancer cell lines and in xenograft models. Projects are also available to examine strategies for pharmacoprevention using our BRAF mutant murine model.

http://www.qimrberghofer.edu.au/page/Lab/Conjoint_Gastroenterology/
Please email Dr Vicki Whitehall with your academic CV.