Characterising the molecular changes that underpin the progression and pathogenesis of cancer.

Our Focus

Through the use of cutting edge technologies, Molecular Oncology (MO) aims to identify genes involved in the development of cancer, quickly and accurately.

MO's researchers combine diverse techniques, ranging from genomics, computational biology, tumour imaging, in vitro and in vivo functional models, to study biological and clinical phenotypes. The proteins produced by these genes may serve as targets for novel chemotherapy drugs and other cancer treatments, or imaging scans. MO uses these combined techniques to validate the role of the novel candidate genes in the development of cancer; with an eye towards translating findings into improved treatment options for cancer patients around the world.

News & Events

New test identifies high-risk childhood brain tumours, improving treatment decisions

Canadian researchers have developed an effective new technique for identifying aggressive medulloblastoma – the most common type of malignant brain tumour in children – and potentially sparing young patients from unnecessary treatments and their harmful long-term side effects. 

The technique, spearheaded by researchers at BC Cancer, BC Children’s Hospital and UBC’s department of pathology and laboratory medicine, can help doctors tailor treatments to individual patients and ensure high-risk cases receive the intensive therapy they need.

Dr. Poul Sorensen receives esteemed Doctors of BC Terry Fox Medal

Dr. Poul Sorensen is the recipient of the 2024 Doctors of BC Terry Fox Medal, a prestigious award recognizing outstanding individuals who have achieved success in clinical practice, research and/or teaching to advance cancer care. A distinguished scientist at the BC Cancer Research Institute (BCCRI) and professor in the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at the University of British Columbia (UBC), Dr. Sorensen was selected based on his remarkable contributions to the field of pediatric cancer research and in translating scientific discoveries into clinical practice. 

Research Labs

Recent Publications

Proteomic Screens for Suppressors of Anoikis Identify IL1RAP as a Promising Surface Target in Ewing Sarcoma.

Cancer discovery, 2021
Zhang, Hai-Feng, Hughes, Christopher S, Li, Wei, He, Jian-Zhong, Surdez, Didier, El-Naggar, Amal M, Cheng, Hongwei, Prudova, Anna, Delaidelli, Alberto, Negri, Gian Luca, Li, Xiaojun, Ørum-Madsen, Maj Sofie, Lizardo, Michael M, Oo, Htoo Zarni, Colborne, Shane, Shyp, Taras, Scopim-Ribeiro, Renata, Hammond, Colin A, Dhez, Anne-Chloe, Langman, Sofya, Lim, Jonathan K M, Kung, Sonia H Y, Li, Amy, Steino, Anne, Daugaard, Mads, Parker, Seth J, Geltink, Ramon I Klein, Orentas, Rimas J, Xu, Li-Yan, Morin, Gregg B, Delattre, Olivier, Dimitrov, Dimiter S, Sorensen, Poul H
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