Research
Immunogenomics
We create computational tools and workflows that enable development of therapies targeting the adaptive immune system, including Bayesian approaches for characterization of highly polymorphic immune-related loci (e.g., POLYSOLVER), deep learning methods for immunogenicity prediction, and algorithms for elucidating activated regions of the “dark genome” based on second- and third-generation sequencing data.
Antigen Discovery Platform
Antigens are key mediators of the anti-tumor effects of personalized cancer treatments, including engineered TCR therapy, CAR T-cell therapy and cancer vaccines. However, the identification of tumor-specific and highly immunogenic antigens poses significant challenges and remains a critical unmet need. We are creating comprehensive, high-throughput approaches for discovery and validation of antigen targets for cancer immunotherapy.
Cancer Vaccine Program
Recent trials have demonstrated the significant therapeutic potential of cancer vaccines, either alone or in combination with other treatments. We are harnessing the results of our antigen discovery efforts in the lab in conjunction with cutting-edge formulation and delivery insights to develop highly immunogenic universal and personalized cancer vaccines for multiple tumor types.
Mechanism of Response to Immunotherapy
Immunotherapies such as checkpoint blockade achieve durable remissions in only a subset of patients and are associated with significant autoimmune adverse effects. We are developing multi-modal biomarkers based on complementary tumor, tumor microenvironment, and host-level bulk and single-cell assays that predict response at baseline as well as early indication of benefit.