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 initiation, progression, 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
The Lung Cancer Autochthonous Model Gene Expression Database Enables Cross-Study Comparisons of the Transcriptomic Landscapes Across Mouse Models.
Journal Article Cancer Res · May 15, 2025 Lung cancer, the leading cause of cancer mortality, exhibits diverse histologic subtypes and genetic complexities. Numerous preclinical mouse models have been developed to study lung cancer, but data from these models are disparate, siloed, and difficult t ... Full text Link to item CiteTransmembrane Serine Protease TMPRSS11B promotes an acidified tumor microenvironment and immune suppression in lung squamous cell carcinoma.
Journal Article bioRxiv · April 3, 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 CiteKLF4 promotes a KRT13+ hillock-like state in squamous lung cancer.
Preprint · March 13, 2025 Full text Link to item CiteRecent Grants
Duke Research Training Program in Surgical Oncology
Inst. Training Prgm or CMEMentor · Awarded by National Institutes of Health · 2024 - 2029NEUROD1 function in SCLC fate and plasticity
ResearchPrincipal Investigator · Awarded by National Institutes of Health · 2024 - 2029Stalling cancer at the ribosome
ResearchCollaborator · Awarded by V Foundation for Cancer Research · 2025 - 2028View All Grants
Education, Training & Certifications
Duke University ·
2005
Ph.D.
Oklahoma Baptist University ·
2001
B.S.