https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2082-2397
Overview
The Oliver Lab is focused on understanding the biology of under-studied subtypes of lung cancer, specifically squamous and small cell lung cancer (SCLC). We investigate mechanisms of tumor cell fate, lineage plasticity, and drug resistance to uncover vulnerabilities that can be therapeutically targeted. We capitalize on state-of-the-art mouse and patient-derived models to identify and test novel treatment strategies, with the goal of translating these findings to the clinic.
Current Appointments & Affiliations
Professor of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology
·
2023 - Present
Pharmacology & Cancer Biology,
Basic Science Departments
Member of the Duke Cancer Institute
·
2022 - Present
Duke Cancer Institute,
Institutes and Centers
Recent Publications
Bcl-xL blockade targets neutrophils and synergizes with chemotherapy in lung squamous cell carcinoma.
Journal Article EMBO Mol Med · March 31, 2026 Tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs) represent a large fraction of immune cells in tumors, but how their regulation and function vary in distinct cancer subtypes remains unknown. In KrasLSL-G12D/WT; p53fl/fl mouse models of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD), TANs ... Full text Link to item CiteTMPRSS11B promotes an acidified microenvironment and immune suppression in squamous lung cancer.
Journal Article EMBO Rep · December 2025 Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Existing therapeutic options have limited efficacy, particularly for lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC), underscoring the critical need for the identification of new therapeutic targets. ... Full text Link to item CiteSupplemental methods, supplemental tables 1-4, and supplemental figures 1-14 from BET Inhibitors Target the SCLC-N Subtype of Small-Cell Lung Cancer by Blocking NEUROD1 Transactivation
Other · November 27, 2025 <p>Table S1. The list of the SCLC cell lines (N=52) used in this study. Table S2. The list of 384 genes that constitute the NEUROD1 gene signature. Table S3. The siRNA screen results in H446 and COR-L279 cells. Table S4. Sensitivity (IC50) of ... Full text CiteRecent Grants
PIK3CG as a novel target of tuft-like lung cancer
ResearchPrincipal Investigator · Awarded by V Foundation for Cancer Research · 2026 - 2031Pharmacological Sciences Training Program
Inst. Training Prgm or CMEPreceptor · Awarded by National Institutes of Health · 2025 - 2030Duke Research Training Program in Surgical Oncology
Inst. Training Prgm or CMEMentor · Awarded by National Cancer Institute · 2024 - 2029View All Grants
Education
Duke University ·
2005
Ph.D.
Oklahoma Baptist University ·
2001
B.S.