Name: Owen Crump
Lab Position: Research Technologist I
Degree: M.Sc. in Microbiology and Immunology
What’s your background?
I was born in Toronto, and raised in a suburb in the west end of the city, Etobicoke, where I attended primary, middle and high school. After graduating in 2013, I pursed a Bachelor of Science degree from Dalhousie University, completing a major in Microbiology and Immunology with Honours in 2017. The research I began in my Honour’s thesis inspired me to continue in the field and I began an MSc in Microbiology and Immunology in the fall of 2017, studying the efficacy of using mast cells, a part of the innate immune system, as a potential immunotherapy against breast cancer.
What research projects are you currently working on?
My current research focuses on determining the therapeutic efficacy of using tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) as an immune therapy against glioblastoma in mouse models with mutations representing replication repair deficiency (RRD). The efficacy of TIL therapy against glioblastoma will be evaluated independently and in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitors. Additionally, my work focuses on identifying biomarkers in RRD hypermutant cancers that could become optimal targets for TIL therapy. As a technician, I will also be assisting with many of the ongoing projects in the Tabori lab as needed.
Do you have any advice for someone interested in a career in research?
The biggest lesson I have learned from a career in research is to be patient when facing the inevitable roadblocks that individual experiments will present. Conversing with your colleagues/supervisor and a deep dive into the relevant literature is essential to overcome any necessary troubleshooting. Additionally, when working with mice and performing experiments that will last multiple months, it is important to be diligent and organized prior to beginning; you can never plan too carefully!
What are your interests outside of science?
My time in research propelled a quick obsession with music that has extended to many artists and genres, and I was a frequent concert attendee pre-pandemic. I am an avid skier/snowboarder with a general love for sports, most notably hockey and football.
What’s your favorite food?
My favourite food changes frequently, but it is currently scalloped potatoes.
Do you prefer coffee, tea, or none?
Coffee, very assuredly!