Orlando Group

Colorectal cancer development is driven by somatic mutations in genes within the RAS pathway, such as KRAS and BRAF. Whereas RAS signalling is known to sustain tumour growth, effective targeted therapy to tackle RAS directly, or its downstream targets, has proven exceedingly difficult to develop. Our research focuses on understanding the role of aberrant RAS signalling activation in controlling gene regulation in colon cancer, with the ultimate goal of discovering innovative therapeutic strategies by identifying transcription factor and chromatin factor dependencies.

Employing cutting-edge technologies (bulk RNAseq/ATACseq, 10X single-cell multiome, DNA methylation, CRISPR-editing) in organoid models, iPSCs and primary samples, my group works on studying the epigenetic reprogramming within the cancer stem cells (CSCs) and the tumour microenvironment, investigating how epigenetic plasticity can promote cancer growth and therapy resistance.

Investigating the role of RAS activation in reprogramming the tumour microenvironment in colon cancer

DPhil in Cancer Science

We are always looking for talented, enthusiastic, and curious individuals who are passionate about making a difference in cancer research. We welcome applications from researchers at all career stages with a background in cancer biology, epigenetics, computational biology or related fields. We offer a collaborative and supportive environment with access to cutting-edge technologies and a commitment to mentorship and career development.

For informal inquiries or to discuss potential projects, please contact Dr Giulia Orlando at giulia.orlando@oncology.ox.ac.uk with a CV and a brief statement of your research interests.

Prof. Ian Tomlinson, Department of Oncology, University of Oxford

Prof. Simon Buczacki, Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Oxford

Prof. Simon Leedham, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford