Mitosis and Cancer Cell Heterogeneity

  We are a basic cancer research lab with focus on the cell biology of mitosis. Mitosis is not simply a cell proliferation process. The connections with cell signaling pathways can help generate daughter cells of different fates through a single cell division. 

  We have long investigated both subcellular structures (centromeres, kinetochores, and centrosomes) and regulatory mechanisms (mitotic checkpoint) involved in the prevention of aneuploidy and chromosomal instability. More recently we have also developed interest in cell division symmetry control and mitochondrial inheritance. We believe these work will help clarify how cancer cells gain genetic, epigenetic and functional heterogeneity. 

 We are continuously looking for self-motivated ambitious COLLEAGUES---graduate students, postdocs and visiting scientists. The lab also accepts undergraduate and high school students for research adventures. Consider yourself a good fit for the lab, if you share the belief that independent line of deep thinking is vital for doing intellectually satisfying science, wherever you are based and whichever career stage you are at. You should also be a good team player and a reliable "can do" person. The lab members have won numerous awards.

Lab News:

August 2025 - The lab has been awarded a R03 award to expand the use of knocksieways techniques! Thanks to NCI.

May 2025 - Read Raissa's article in the Toledo Blade that explains her research to the public: Why cells need brakes: Uncovering the role of MAD1 as a guardian against cancer. Thanks to the Blade and Dr. Kandace Williams for providing the opportunity!

August 2024 - A second Instrument Supplement is awarded for the lab to purchase software modules for the Keyence  BZ-X810 live cell imaging microscope system!  Thanks to NIGMS and Keyence!

April 2024 - Congratulations to Trey and Hayden for winning their Summer Research fellowships to continue their work in the lab during the summer!