A dual between cancer and science, a journey to understand and find cure for Cancer: from the perspective of postdocs studying Cancer Biology
- Could each of you please introduce yourself and give a brief description about your research? When/how did you first get interested in cancer research?
Jerome: While my PhD focused on mycobacterial pathogenesis, I transitioned to cancer research during my postdoc. I’m currently working on probiotic engineering for treatment of colorectal tumors in the Dantas lab. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerome-prusa-508979148/)
Kristin: My interest in cancer began during my undergraduate studies. I’m now a postdoc in the Weilbaecher lab, focusing on mechanisms of chemo-resistance in breast cancer bone metastases. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-kwakwa/)
Emilee: I’ve been involved in cancer research since my undergraduate days. After a brief stint in industry, I’m now a postdoc in the Spencer lab, studying DNA methylation in leukemias and developing a pipeline for whole-genome sequencing of CAR-T cells. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilee-kotnik/)
Sandip: I’ve developed a keen interest in cancer biology since my master’s degree. Currently, I’m working on CAR-T cell therapy for AML in the Kim lab. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandip-nathani-9b7564221/)
- If you were a researcher in a movie, what would be the climactic scene of you making a breakthrough?
The discussion centered around advancements in cellular therapies, particularly CAR-T cell therapy, for cancer treatment. Participants expressed excitement about the potential of engineering immune cells to combat tumors, especially considering challenges with traditional therapies like chemotherapy. While significant progress has been made in treating leukemias, expanding the application of CAR-T therapy to solid tumors remains a major goal. Key areas of focus include understanding factors that influence CAR-T cell development, overcoming the resistance of solid tumors to immune infiltration, and improving early detection methods for breast cancer. The conversation also highlighted the importance of personalized approaches, considering individual patient responses to treatment and the need for innovative strategies to combat chemo-resistance. Additionally, participants discussed the challenges and rewards of scientific research.
The analogy of “October Sky” resonated, emphasizing the iterative nature of scientific discovery, the importance of perseverance through failures, and the transformative power of unexpected breakthroughs. The fictional concept of a single-cell therapy capable of both detecting and killing cancer was explored jokingly, highlighting the aspirations and potential future directions of the field.
- How do you constantly learn/keep up with the skills required for your work?
The discussion highlighted the challenges and strategies for navigating a large, diverse research lab. Participants shared experiences of learning new computational tools, collaborating with colleagues, and staying updated on the latest developments in their field. The importance of active engagement, seeking help from others, and maintaining enthusiasm was emphasized.
Key points included:
- Learning new skills: Participants discussed the challenges of transitioning into a lab with a focus on computational tools and the importance of seeking guidance from colleagues.
- Collaboration: The value of collaboration within and outside the lab was emphasized as a means to stay current and leverage diverse expertise.
- Staying informed: Participants shared strategies for staying updated on the latest research, including attending seminars, reading scientific articles, and following news related to their field.
- Active engagement: The importance of maintaining enthusiasm and actively participating in lab activities, such as journal clubs and paper presentations, was discussed.
Overall, the discussion provided insights into the challenges and rewards of working in a dynamic research environment.
- If your research was a recipe, what would be the key ingredients and the secret sauce that makes it unique? And how have they changed with time?
The discussion highlighted the significant advancements in DNA sequencing and the increasing reliance on computational methods in biomedical research. Participants discussed the evolution of sequencing technologies, the growing complexity of data analysis, and the integration of computational approaches into various aspects of research.
Key points included:
- Advancements in sequencing: Participants recognized the rapid development of DNA sequencing technologies, including single-cell sequencing and long-read sequencing, and the associated increase in data volume and complexity.
- Integration of computational methods: The discussion emphasized the growing importance of computational skills for analyzing large datasets and understanding complex biological processes.
- Balance between wet lab and computational skills: Participants acknowledged the need for a balance between wet lab and computational skills, recognizing the value of both experimental and computational approaches for addressing research questions.
- Impact of AI and machine learning: The potential of AI and machine learning to accelerate various aspects of research, such as coding and data analysis, was discussed.
Overall, the discussion underscored the transformative nature of these advancements and the evolving landscape of biomedical research.
- What is the biggest challenge facing us in the cancer biology field today? How does academic research contribute towards it?
The discussion highlighted the complexity and heterogeneity of cancer, emphasizing the challenges associated with detection, treatment, and personalized medicine. Participants discussed the dynamic nature of cancer, both within individual patients and across the patient population, and the importance of bridging the gap between sequencing data and functional biology.
Key points included:
- Heterogeneity of cancer: Participants acknowledged the variability of cancer, both within individual patients and across the patient population, and the implications for diagnosis and treatment.
- Challenges of personalized medicine: The discussion emphasized the difficulties in developing personalized treatments for individual patients, given the high costs and the need for extensive data and analysis.
- Bridging the gap between sequencing and functional biology: Participants highlighted the importance of translating sequencing data into functional insights to understand the underlying mechanisms of cancer and develop targeted therapies.
- Role of academic research: The discussion emphasized the critical role of academic research in advancing our understanding of cancer biology and developing innovative approaches to personalized medicine.
Overall, the discussion underscored the need for continued research and collaboration to address the complex challenges posed by cancer heterogeneity and to develop effective and personalized treatment strategies.
- Your outlook on the field, what does the future of cancer biology look like, what skills are going to be important to be gained for succeeding 5-10 years down the line (in terms of techniques, bioinformatics, soft skills etc.,)?
Panelists have raised some excellent points about the transformative potential of AI in cancer research. Indeed, AI is poised to revolutionize the field by:
- Personalized Medicine: AI can analyze vast amounts of patient data to identify unique genetic and molecular profiles, leading to more targeted and effective treatments.
- Drug Discovery: By rapidly screening millions of compounds, AI can accelerate the discovery of novel drug candidates with fewer side effects.
- Clinical Trials: AI can help optimize clinical trial design, identify patient populations most likely to benefit from specific treatments, and predict treatment outcomes.
As previously mentioned, interdisciplinary collaboration is crucial for harnessing the full potential of AI in cancer research. By combining expertise from biology, medicine, computer science, and other fields, researchers can develop more sophisticated AI models and apply them to real-world problems.
- Final thoughts/advice to current graduate students/ new postdocs
Panelists have raised some excellent points about the importance of developing both computational and experimental skills, especially in today’s interdisciplinary research landscape.
Here are some additional thoughts on these topics:
- Computational Skills in Academia: Beyond data analysis, computational skills can be invaluable for tasks like automating experiments, designing simulations, and developing new analytical tools. Many academic institutions now offer courses and workshops to help researchers acquire these skills.
- Networking and Mentorship: Building a strong network of colleagues and mentors can be instrumental in your career. Seek out opportunities to connect with other researchers in your field, attend conferences, and participate in online communities. A good mentor can provide guidance, support, and valuable insights.
- Choosing a Lab: When selecting a lab, consider factors such as the research interests of the principal investigator, the lab’s culture and resources, and the opportunities for professional development. It’s also important to think about your long-term career goals and how the lab experience can help you achieve them.
In summary, success in academia requires a combination of technical skills, interpersonal skills, and a strategic approach to career development. By developing both computational and experimental skills, building a strong network, and choosing a lab that aligns with your goals, you can increase your chances of success in your research career.
- How do you think your mentor, department and WashU gives you the best opportunities to pursue cancer research as a postdoc?
The discussion highlighted the opportunities and resources offered by WashU for pursuing cancer research and developing a prominent career. Participants emphasized the importance of a supportive mentor, access to state-of-the-art facilities, and the collaborative environment at WashU.
Key points included:
- Mentorship and collaboration: Participants emphasized the value of a supportive mentor and the opportunities for collaboration with other researchers at WashU.
- Access to resources: Participants highlighted the availability of state-of-the-art facilities and equipment at WashU, which facilitate cutting-edge research.
- Funding opportunities: Participants discussed the availability of internal funding programs at WashU, which support researchers at various stages of their careers.
- Supportive environment: Participants emphasized the supportive environment at WashU, which fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration.
Overall, the discussion showcased the unique advantages of pursuing cancer research at WashU, including the opportunity to work with leading researchers, access cutting-edge resources, and benefit from a supportive and collaborative environment.
(Written with the help of the Gemini AI tool, organized by Dr. Sumedha Agashe)