Trainee of the Month – Cole Nickason

Cole is a member of the Han Lab. His research focuses on exploring cancer progression at the level of RNA regulatory events within the context of neuroendocrine tumors. His aim is to identify new diagnostic and therapeutic targets. Cole’s interest in genomics and evolution during his undergraduate studies fueled his passion for cancer research, including new areas to explore such as dysregulation. In his free time, Cole likes to learn about paleontology and zoology.

1.  What is your current research focus?

My current research focus is exploring cancer progression at the level of RNA regulatory events, within the context of neuroendocrine tumours. This comes with the aim of eventually identifying new potential diagnostic and therapeutic targets.

2.  What made you interested in pursuing cancer research?

Throughout my undergraduate studies, I found myself particularly interested in two subjects: genomics and evolution. As such, cancer progression fascinated me, as both forces are at play, with abnormal genetic regulation leading to tumour evolution and worsening patient prognosis. Largely overlooked levels of genetic regulation, like alternative splicing, also offered an exciting new area of potential dysregulation to explore. Beyond the scientific interest, there is the obvious clinical need for more knowledge of cancer and its mechanisms, making it a clear choice for my research focus.

3.  What are your interests outside the CDCR and the lab?

Outside the lab, I enjoy learning about natural history, particularly paleontology and zoology.