Ross Soens

Current Research

Investigating Human Gene Essentiality in Physiologic Conditions

Our overarching hypothesis is that existing model systems have masked important insights into
fundamental cell physiology and drug development. To test this with a specific focus on hematological cancers and normal immune cells, we apply a highly multidisciplinary approach that combines principles of biology and engineering across several distinct projects. Our primary goal is to apply innovative tools and concepts to understand how environmental factors influence both basic cell physiology and drug activity. By achieving this broad objective, our group hopes to: (I) uncover new targetable vulnerabilities in human cancers; and (II) leverage our findings to propose new cancer treatment strategies that incorporate either the direct modulation of environmental factors or the use of immunotherapies with improved efficacy.