Let me start by acknowledging the existence of this thread: https://mathoverflow.net/questions/87575/mathematics-and-cancer-research

It is well-known that mathematical modeling and computational biology are effective tools in cancer research. When I started college and declared the math major, this was the direction I envisioned myself pursuing. However, I quickly fell in love with algebra, number theory, and "pure" math. So my question is

> Are there any ways for an algebraist to contribute to cancer research?


I've recently learned that algebraic geometry has been useful in studying phylogenetic trees in evolutionary biology, so while I cannot even imagine what an affirmative answer to my question might look like, I am hopeful that one exists.