Dr Stehbens is a cell biologist with an interest in understanding cell migration and the cytoskeleton. Her research group aims to understand how cells integrate secreted and biomechanical signals from their local microenvironment to facilitate movement and survival. They have uncovered a novel role for the microtubule cytoskeleton in protecting cells from rupture during cell invasion in crowded environments. Using patient-derived tumour cells, coupled to genetic alteration and substrate microfabrication, they use state-of-the-art microscopy to understand the fundamental mechanisms of cell migration with the aim of understanding how to better prevent metastasis.