PhD
Adjunct Associate Professor, Genetics
UNC-Chapel Hill
Research Collaborator, Cancer Genetics
Area of Interest
Parker’s research involves methodological development, integrated analysis, and machine learning for high throughput studies in cancer. He previously lead the development of algorithms and content resulting in Prosigna™, the only CE marked and FDA 510(k) cleared breast cancer diagnostic assay for FFPE tissue. He has been involved in similar diagnostic development activities across multiple solid tumors types with the goal of optimizing treatment for individual tumors.
Parker previously directed the sequencing and related genomic analysis in the Bioinformatics Shared Resource at the UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center. The Bioinformatics Shared Resource provides consultation and analytical services primarily for the Cancer Center, but is also involved in collaborations across multiple departments and institutions. In this role he lead processing and dissemination of 10K RNA-seq samples as part of TCGA, 2k cancer samples as part of the UNCseq program, and lead the shared resource activity for multiple collaborative studies.
News and Stories

Study identifies molecular differences between primary breast cancer and its metastases
A multi-institutional national study has identified unique molecular features responsible for the development and progression of metastatic breast cancer.

A patient’s decision adds immeasurably to knowledge about how to treat lung cancer
Chad Pecot, MD, and colleagues used biospecimens from a patient just after he succumbed to lung cancer to unravel how a KRAS mutation developed resistance to a treatment that had initially proved effective.

Molecular aspects of ovarian and endometrial tumors mapped to the level of a single cell
Researchers led by Hector L. Franco, PhD, have determined for the first time, cell-by-cell, the genetic and epigenetic state of ovarian and endometrial tumors.

UNC Lineberger faculty among the most highly cited scientists worldwide
Clarivate’s 2020 Highly Cited Researchers list recognized 15 UNC Lineberger members for publishing some of the most influential scientific papers the past decade.