My research focuses on molecular mechanisms of chemotherapeutic resistance and targeted therapy approaches in upper GI cancers. My current research involves the role of AXL receptor tyrosine kinase in Barrett's carcinogenesis. This research attempts to gain insight into how AXL through regulation of c-ABL promotes cancer cell survival and invasion, hallmarks of tumorigenesis. This study also investigates the effects of p53 loss of function through deletion or mutation on AXL expression in the context of reflux-induced DNA damage and oxidative stress. I have also mentored and taught several postdoctoral fellows and students in the field of cancer biology in the past many years.