Christopher R. Vakoc

Christopher R. Vakoc is a Professor at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, where he leads a research program focused on identifying genetic dependencies and therapeutic targets in cancer. His work bridges clinical oncology and molecular biology, with a strong emphasis on transcriptional regulation and chromatin in hematological malignancies and solid tumors.

• B.S., The Pennsylvania State University (1997-2001)
• MD, PhD, University of Pennsylvania (2001-2007)
• Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Fellow (2008-2011)

Dr. Vakoc’s research explores how chromatin modifications and transcriptional complexes create vulnerabilities in cancer cells. His lab employs cutting-edge genetic screening technologies to uncover novel drug targets, with a particular focus on leukemia, pancreatic cancer, sarcoma, and lung cancer. A major breakthrough from his team was the identification of BRD4 as a critical dependency in acute myeloid leukemia, which helped establish the clinical rationale for BET inhibitors in cancer therapy.

The research trends in Dr. Vakoc’s work consistently revolve around the dysregulation of gene expression in cancer, using functional genomics to map dependencies in transcriptional machinery. His publications reflect deep engagement with epigenetic regulators, super-enhancers, and oncogenic transcription factors, contributing to the broader understanding of how non-mutational mechanisms drive tumorigenesis.

Dr. Vakoc has been recognized with several top honors in cancer research, including:

• Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Scholar Award
• AACR Outstanding Achievement in Cancer Research Award
• Pershing Square Sohn Cancer Research Alliance Prize
• Paul Marks Prize

He has mentored numerous trainees and leads a highly collaborative research group supported by competitive grants from organizations such as the NIH, Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, and private cancer research alliances. His lab continues to pioneer methods in CRISPR-based screening and transcriptional circuit mapping to develop new therapeutic strategies.

The Vakoc Lab at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory is a dynamic research team dedicated to uncovering fundamental mechanisms of gene control in cancer. The lab integrates molecular biology, genomics, and chemical biology to dissect transcriptional addiction in tumor cells and translate findings into preclinical models.