As a physician-scientist, Dr. Byers’ research focuses on high-throughput molecular profiling to identify new therapeutic targets, predictive biomarkers, and mechanisms of resistance, especially in the area of Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC). H er research led to the first comprehensive framework for classifying SCLC into distinct molecular subtypes. She has rapidly translated these findings into clinical trials and leads a multi-disciplinary translational research team that leverages tumors and liquid biopsies from patients with lung cancer to accelerate the development of personalized treatments and biomarkers.

Dr. Byers serves as PI on multiple awards including NCI R01, U01 and U24 awards focused on lung cancer. She is co-PI for the NCI’s Small Cell Lung Cancer Consortium, Chair of the MD Anderson Cancer Center Multidisciplinary Research Program, co-leader of the MD Anderson Cancer Center Lung CCSG Program, and a project leader in the MD Anderson/UT Southwestern Lung SPORE. As a clinical investigator, Dr. Byers has led a number of clinical trials investigating new therapeutic targets and biomarkers, including the first CAR T-cell for SCLC patients.