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Head & Neck Cancer Research

The department's head and neck oncology research group leads a comprehensive, multidisciplinary research program integrating advanced molecular genetics, immuno-oncology, and patient-centered clinical care.

Their translational laboratories are pioneering liquid biomarker development for early detection and surveillance, while leveraging spatial transcriptomics and metabolomics to dissect the tumor microenvironment and its role in progression and treatment resistance. A particular focus is placed on understanding the tumor microenvironment in response to immunotherapy and mechanisms of treatment resistance. The group’s work spans bench-to-bedside translation, with robust clinical trial activity informed by genomic, transcriptomic, and spatial data.

Additionally, investigators are committed to improving outcomes through innovations in shared decision-making and value-based care, ensuring that scientific advances are tightly integrated with patient needs and healthcare system impact.

Research Programs & Labs

Head & Neck Oncology Research Program

Uniting experts across 13 departments and five University of Michigan schools, our Head and Neck Oncology Program leads groundbreaking cancer research that spans basic, clinical, behavioral, population, and translational studies to continuously advance patient care.

Head & Neck Oncology Clinical & Health Services Research Lab

Advancing head and neck oncology, the Head and Neck Oncology Clinical and Health Services Research Group conducts clinical and health services research to continuously improve patient outcomes and optimize healthcare experiences.

Michigan Otolaryngology & Translational Oncology Lab

Developing at-home urine-based testing and advancing precision oncology to improve patient outcomes through informatics tools, ethical policy frameworks for genomic data use, and novel therapeutic strategies that better predict treatment response.