Linda Marklund

Number of Completed supervisions as principal supervisor: 2

Ongoing supervisors as principal supervisor: 7

Number of Completed supervisions as co-supervisor: 3

Ongoing supervisors as co-supervisor: 4

My research focuses on head and neck cancer, with particular emphasis on HPV-associated oropharyngeal cancer. Through translational and clinical studies, I investigate biomarkers, tumour biology, diagnostic strategies, and treatment outcomes to enable more precise and individualized care. The overarching goal is to improve survival while reducing treatment-related morbidity and preserving quality of life for patients with head and neck cancer

My research focuses on improving treatment outcomes and quality of life for patients with head and neck cancer. Through translational, clinical, and population-based studies, I investigate tumour biology, HPV-associated cancers, biomarkers, diagnostic pathways, and treatment outcomes to support more precise and personalized care.

A major focus of my work is the development and implementation of minimally invasive diagnostic and treatment strategies that can reduce unnecessary treatment-related morbidity while maintaining excellent oncological outcomes. In particular, I have a longstanding interest in sentinel lymph node biopsy and its role in individualizing treatment decisions. Building on its established use in early-stage oral cancer, my research explores how sentinel node techniques can be extended to additional tumour groups and more advanced disease settings, with the aim of tailoring treatment intensity to each patient's risk profile.

By integrating clinical research with molecular and pathological insights, I seek to improve risk stratification, optimize treatment selection, and identify patients who may benefit from de-escalated or intensified therapies. The overarching goal is to maximize cure rates while preserving speech, swallowing, function, and long-term quality of life for patients with head and neck cancer.