Odusanwo Toyin

E-mail; odusanwotunde1988@gmail.com

Research Statement: Cancer Immunotherapy

As a medical doctor with five years of clinical experience in Sub-Saharan Africa, I've witnessed
firsthand the devastating impact of cancer on patients and families, and I'm driven to develop
innovative solutions to combat this disease. Despite advances in medical and surgical
interventions, cancer incidence and mortality continue to rise in Nigeria, highlighting the urgent
need for new treatments. My goal is to contribute to the development of effective cancer
immunotherapies that harness the power of molecular interventions to combat cancer.

My interest in cancer immunotherapy was sparked by my final year presentation on "HIV and
associated cancers," which revealed the critical role of the immune system in combating cancer.
I am eager to explore the complex interactions between the immune system and cancer, and to
identify novel targets for immunotherapy.

My research interests include investigating mechanisms of immune evasion and resistance,

developing personalized immunotherapeutic strategies, and identifying biomarkers for predicting
response to immunotherapy.

During my MBBS degree, I gained valuable research experience in immunology and oncology,
evaluating the efficacy of immunotherapeutic agents in preclinical models. I am confident that
my background and experience have prepared me well for a career in cancer immunotherapy
research.

My short-term research goals include:

- Identifying at least three novel targets for cancer immunotherapy

- Developing a predictive biomarker for immunotherapy response with at least 85-90% accuracy

My long-term research goals include:

- Establishing a translational research program focused on cancer immunotherapy

- Collaborating with clinicians to develop innovative immunotherapies
- Contributing to the development of personalized cancer treatment strategies

My proposed research project will investigate the role of a novel immune checkpoint
molecule in cancer progression and response to immunotherapy. I plan to use a
combination of in vitro and in vivo experiments, as well as bioinformatics approaches, to
understand the mechanisms of action and identify potential biomarkers for response.
Ultimately, my research aims to translate to clinical practice, improving patient outcomes and
quality of life. I plan to collaborate with clinicians and other stakeholders to ensure that my
research is clinically relevant and effective.

I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the Cancer Immunotherapy program at

Dalhousie University, and to collaborate with esteemed faculty members to drive innovation and
discovery.