Cancer Research and Translational Discovery
The Kenny Lab, led by Dr. Colin Kenny, focuses on advancing the understanding and treatment of melanoma through innovative, translational research. The lab is particularly interested in how cancers develop, adapt, and respond to treatment, with the goal of improving outcomes for patients facing complex diseases.
Opportunities for Trainees
The Kenny Lab provides a supportive and collaborative environment for trainees at all levels, including graduate students, medical students, residents, and fellows.
Trainees have opportunities to:
- Participate in ongoing research projects
- Gain experience in experimental design and data analysis
- Develop skills in scientific writing and presentation
- Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team
Mentorship is a core part of the lab’s culture, with a strong emphasis on fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and professional growth.
Collaborative Environment
The lab is part of a dynamic academic research community that values collaboration across disciplines. By working closely with clinicians, scientists, and institutional partners, the Kenny Lab contributes to a research ecosystem focused on accelerating discovery and improving patient care.
Colin Kenny, PhD
Assistant Professor of Surgery - Surgical Oncology and Endocrine Surgery
Research Overview
Research in the Kenny Lab centers on the biology of melanoma and the factors that influence tumor behavior. A key area of focus is studying transcription factor gene regulatory networks in melanocyte stem cells and how these networks influence melanoma cell fate, metastasis, and treatment resistance.
By examining both cancer cells and their surrounding environment, the lab works to better understand how tumors change over time and identify new opportunities for therapeutic intervention.
The lab utilizes advanced model systems to:
- Study how cancers form and evolve
- Explore how tumors interact with their microenvironment
- Investigate mechanisms of metastasis and treatment resistance
- Identify potential targets for therapy
- Evaluate responses to emerging treatments
This work supports a broader effort to translate scientific discovery into clinically meaningful advances.
In The News
“Our goal is to create an environment where trainees can think critically, ask bold questions, and see how discovery in the lab can truly impact patients. It’s an opportunity to be part of meaningful, translational research from the very beginning.”
