My research interests lie at the interphase of chemistry and cancer biology. I intend to tackle the most pressing issues in cancer biology – how to target and therapeutically intervene to disrupt cancer stem cell functionality (self-renewal, drug resistance, tumor recurrence after therapy, and metastatic spread to distant organs). I am especially interested in discovery of novel small molecules with anti-cancer properties. Currently I am focused on the anti-cancer stem cell activity of polyether ionophore antibiotics and their derivatives. In my study I am utilizing 3D organoid models to better mimic tumor architecture and to facilitate rapid screening of small molecule drug candidates selectively active against cancer stem cells.