Our research focuses on the role of the extracellular matrix (ECM) in carcinoma progression, spread and response to therapy. Our laboratory seeks to uncover mechanisms underlying tumor-induced stromagenic reprogramming and to elucidate how the neoplastic ECM enhances the invasive behavior of tumor cells, escape from immune surveillance systems and therapeutic resistance. Efforts of the team are centered on head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), a tumor pathology for which we have established in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo experimental models through a collaborative network of basic and clinical research teams.