Goals and Objectives

The Discovery and Developmental Therapeutics Research Program focuses on developing and recruiting expertise in three interconnected themes: discovery, cancer imaging, and developmental therapeutics.

Discovery. The program aims to discover and evaluate novel therapeutic targets and small molecule anti-cancer agents that modulate mechanisms determining tumor vulnerability or overcoming drug resistance. It utilizes high-throughput screening, systems biology, computational modeling and medicinal chemistry to populate the therapeutic pipeline for better cancer therapies.

Cancer Imaging. The program invents and utilizes in vivo imaging agents and technologies for non-invasive diagnostic and image-guided therapeutic cancer applications. Program members develop novel materials, targeting moieties and imaging agents, such as theranostic nanoparticles, nanofibers, radionuclides and PET/SPECT imaging probes, to enhance diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.

Developmental Therapeutics. Lastly, the program leads human interventional trials for cancer using innovative therapeutic strategies and individualized treatment options. It serves as a convergence point for translating targets, imaging, therapeutic agents and clinically mature immunotherapy agents with efforts to improve patient outcomes leveraging Winship’s scientific strengths and resources including early-phase clinical trials

The productive bench-to-bedside research conducted by program members provides a rich training environment for the next generation of cancer researchers. Integrated activities are designed to promote biomedical science careers, especially among underrepresented groups. Strong engagement with Winship's Community Outreach and Engagement drives the prioritization of catchment area needs in programming and member research.