Discovering the mathmatics of cancer evolution
Cancer can be described as an evolutionary process. Tumor cells rapidly divide, accumulate random genetic variation, and compete for limited resources within the body. This process results in highly divers, adaptable tumors that can evade our best therapeutic interventions. Mathematics, and specifically probability theory, the study of randomness, provides us with a powerful tool to try to understand and predict the complex patterns of evolution in cancer. My research focuses on developing mathematical models to understand the evolutionary process driving cancer initiation and progression, with the ultimate gol of utilizing these models to design better prevention and treatment strategies.