Frances Turrell

Frances Turrell is a Lecturer in Cancer Biology at the Division of Cancer Sciences (L5), University of Manchester. Her research focuses on understanding mechanisms of metastasis in estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer, particularly the role of the tumor microenvironment and aging in promoting dormancy and metastatic relapse. She previously held a Postdoctoral Researcher position at The Institute of Cancer Research (University of London) from 2018 to 2024.

Dr. Turrell's expertise spans tumor-immune interactions, immunotherapy strategies, and the development of in vivo syngeneic models to study metastasis. Her work contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being) by addressing breast cancer recurrence and therapeutic innovation.

Her research has explored PDGF-C’s role in ER+ breast cancer metastasis, CAR-T cell therapies targeting endosialin, and the genetic factors (e.g., ID2) influencing brain colonization. Recent studies highlight aging-related microenvironmental changes and their impact on metastatic progression.

Her lab’s goals include identifying high-risk patients for late relapse and discovering novel therapies to limit metastasis. Collaborations and methodologies emphasize multidisciplinary approaches, including molecular genetics and immunological techniques.