The Cancer and Bone Lab at Sheffield.
The Cancer and Bone Lab, led by Alanna Green, researches the molecular mechanisms governing myeloma chemoevasion and the role of the bone microenvironment. Key research themes include studying cancer dormancy and metabolism. Recently, the Green lab played a central role in developing a new drug to clinical trials for myeloma patients.
How long have you had your lab?
My group is the 'Cancer and Bone Lab', which I have led for about 4 years. Currently this is 3 postdocs, a lab manager and 3 PhD students.
Major research theme
We study incurable cancers that grow in bone, with a particular interest in myeloma and bone metastasis. Our group is currently focused on how the bone microenvironment regulates cancer processes like cancer cell dormancy and drug resistance, alongside development of new drugs to target dormant cancer cells.
Most recent accomplishment
In my research I am proud of getting a new drug into clinical trials for myeloma patients.
Additionally, along with other Fellows at the University of Sheffield, I recently founded our Faculty of Health Fellows College. We support the career development of independent Research Fellows and aspiring fellows building a stronger community where Fellows can thrive at Sheffield.
Advice for new investigators opening their lab
Mentors are so important for your career development and personal growth. I found it helpful to have different mentors for different parts of my career. For instance, a mentor that can support you in fellowship applications might be different to a mentor you can go to for advice on navigating your institutional processes like hiring staff. Listen to the advice of different people, but ultimately do what is right for you.
If opening a lab comes at the same time as starting a family, remember that you can't be all things to all people. Find the balance that works for you!
Fun traditions
We don't really have any traditions per se, but we always try to celebrate the wins (big or small) and have a summer social and end of year celebration.
If you’re interested in the work in the Cancer and Bone Lab, check out their website, follow Alanna on LinkedIn or email Alanna at: a.c.green@sheffield.ac.uk
The Cancer and Bone Lab social.
Blog post contributed by Bill Grey of the ISEH Publications Committee.
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