1. How would you describe your research?

The research within my lab is made of two components. There is the cancer component where we try to understand cervical cancer and breast cancer. Then there is the regular biology component where we try to explore and understand the biology basis of the tissue of these cells.

2. How did you become interested in this area?

As a Ph.D. student I studied breast biology and breast cancer and I just never stopped. At the time I desperately wanted to start working in a lab and someone offered me a volunteer position in a lab. In that particular lab they worked on breast biology and breast cancer and since then I just continued.

3. How long have you been in this field?

Since 1998 so about 14 years now.

4. What other fields did you consider before entering this area?

At first I thought about maybe doing drug discovery or heart research. But then I decided to focus primarily on breast cancer. I have been able to incorporate drug discovery into my breast cancer research. Within the lab we do some drug discovery, we try to find new drugs from all over. So I’m able to have a little bit of the best of both worlds.

5. What degrees do you have?

I have a BS from the University of Guelph in Canada and I have a Ph.D. from the University of Toronto.

6. How do you balance your research with other responsibilities?

As a professor there are three essential responsibilities; conducting research, teaching, and then community service. So it’s a matter of keeping all three of these things balanced. You just have to manage your time well and keep your priorities in check.

7. Would you recommend your field to someone aspiring to do research?

I would, if you have passion for whatever you’re doing you’ll always succeed. It’s tough, there are long hours and little recognition. But if it’s something you love and are willing to put in the time and effort, you should of course get involved.

8. What is your next step in your research?

The next step is to now translate what we have discovered in the lab into the clinical world. We have been collaborating with the Staten Island University Hospital and doctors have been coming to the lab and we’re trying to take our lab work and apply it into clinics.