Michael Woods

Currently, Dr. Woods is not accepting graduate students.

Research Interests

Identification of novel genes and mutations involved in hereditary colorectal cancer, familial pulmonary fibrosis, intracranial aneurysms, Goeminne syndrome and various eye diseases; utilizing a colorectal tissue bank to identify pathways causing cancer; curating the International Society of Gastrointestinal Hereditary Tumours (InSiGHT) variant database.

Research Biography

Dr. Woods’s research interests span numerous genetic diseases, particularly hereditary colorectal cancer. By utilizing the unique Newfoundland and Labrador population, and the wealth of data obtained by clinical colleagues, families with rare diseases of unknown genetic etiology are recognized and their genetic basis is better understood. The goal of these studies is to benefit the peoples of NL, particularly the families with inherited disease. With the outstanding collaborations between laboratory scientists, clinicians, patients and their families, discoveries can be taken from the bench to the bedside.

Currently, studies are performed on datasets generated through genomic sequencing derived from family-based analyses. Through using bioinformatics and functional assays, disease-causing mutations are identified. This directly helps patients and families by providing information that informs better clinical and genetic screening protocols. As well, it has the potential to identify important targets for downstream applications.

In addition, Dr. Woods collaborates worldwide with clinicians and scientists on better understanding the epidemiology of colorectal cancer and how genetic variation influences patient diagnoses, treatments, and outcomes.

Dr. Woods was Chair of the Board of Directors for the NL Division of the Canadian Cancer Society (2011–2013) and was a Member of the National Board of Directors of the Canadian Cancer Society (2011-2020).

Publications

Newfoundland and Labrador's University

We acknowledge that the lands on which Memorial University's campuses are situated are in the traditional territories of diverse Indigenous groups, and we acknowledge with respect the diverse histories and cultures of the Beothuk, Mi'kmaq, Innu, and Inuit of this province.