Her research interests include the study of host and tumor genetics, phenotypic characteristics, and exposures that modulate cancer risk and prognosis. She has been particularly involved in skin melanoma research as an active member of the international Genes, Environment, and Melanoma (GEM) since the 2000 as well as of the InterMEL Consortium in more recent years. Among other, these efforts include the study of genetic variants to help distinguish the development of lethal melanoma at the time of diagnosis. She collaborates with Dr. Halpern and other members of the Dermatology Service and Melanoma Disease Management Team (DMT) to evaluate the effect of genetics, phenotypic characteristics, and exposures to further the knowledge of the biology and epidemiology of nevi —a known risk factor for melanoma. Other studies involve collaborations in the areas of cancer survivorship and integrative medicine. For instance, with Drs. Ahles and Root, her Lab helps assess the impact of genomic and biochemical markers and exposures on neurocognitive function, and she helps investigate the underlying genetics linked to chemotherapy-induced persistent alopecia in breast cancer survivors. With Dr. Mao, her Lab helps assess the contribution of phenotypic and genetic biomarkers to the efficacy of interventions in cancer patients.

With her lab team, Dr. Orlow supports additional multidisciplinary investigations in the areas of cancer etiology, prognosis, and survivorship. Her laboratory handles biospecimens collections for large epidemiologic studies including, breast, colorectal, pancreatic, endometrial, bladder cancer, and melanoma, among others.