We have chosen to pursue translational research projects in the challenging area of variation (heterogeneity) of patient outcomes as our initial focus. New molecular insights into the development of cancer have revealed increasing layers of heterogeneity that reflects not only the diversity of tumour cell behaviour, the impact of the micro-environment surrounding cancer cells, and also the macro-environment of host biology in the context of cancer control. We shall study not only cancer biology, but also the interaction of cancer cells with the host, society and the sustainability of the health care system and illness management.
NODE LEADER
DR CLAYTON SMITH
Dr.Smith is the Director of the Bone Marrow Transplantation / Leukemia Program of British Columbia, a joint program of the BC Cancer Agency and Vancouver Coastal Health Authority. A noted clinician / researcher, he has focused on the therapeutic development and manipulation of blood stem cells to treat blood cancers. Dr. Smith is the Canada Research Chair in Cell Therapies at the University of British Columbia.
