Tell us about your role at UHN.
I am a postdoctoral researcher at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, and my work is focused on studying the formation and metastasis of high-grade ovarian cancer. In parallel, I am investigating the role of the MAP kinase scaffold protein KSR1 in regulating mTORC1 signaling within Ras- and PI3K-driven cancers to understand its potential as a therapeutic target.
How long have you been at UHN and what led you to this role?
I have been in this role at UHN for over a year. I completed my PhD in Cell and Developmental Biology at Institut Curie in Paris in 2022, where I focused on how changes in organelle organization contribute to tumour development. My research uncovered how the positioning of lysosomes, controlled by the transcription factor TFEB, plays a key role in aggressive bladder cancer.
What are you passionate about in your role at UHN? What does health research mean to you?
I am deeply passionate about cancer research, particularly in understanding the complexities of disease progression. My motivation lies in contributing to solutions that address the most challenging aspects of patient care and treatment. I believe health care research should focus on tackling these pressing issues while advancing scientific knowledge. By enhancing our understanding of cancer and related health care burdens, I hope to make a meaningful impact in improving patient outcomes and offering innovative approaches to overcoming the obstacles faced in treatment.
How does your work help to advance UHN's vision of A Healthier World?
My research supports UHN’s vision by advancing cancer biology and contributing to new therapeutic approaches. By exploring molecular mechanisms of cancer progression, it aligns with UHN’s mission to translate scientific discoveries into impactful treatments, driving innovation in patient care and addressing key health care challenges.
What makes UHN an ideal place to advance health research?
UHN is an excellent place for research due to its strong commitment to translational science, collaborative environment, integration of research with clinical care, and access to state-of-the-art facilities. UHN also emphasizes innovation, and interdisciplinary work, and has a robust infrastructure that supports the journey from basic science to clinical application, helping to advance health care outcomes and treatments.
Do you have any interests outside of work?
I enjoy playing the keyboard and reading during my free time.
What do you see for the future of health research, and what gets you excited about it?
The future of health research is incredibly promising, especially with advancements in personalized medicine and emerging technologies. I am excited by ongoing research to develop tailored therapies that improve patient outcomes and by the opportunity to translate lab discoveries into clinical practice, making treatments more effective and addressing complex diseases like cancer with a deeper understanding of their mechanisms.
How to Participate in You @TeamUHN
You @TeamUHN is a campaign to highlight the important scientific contributions that research lab staff, trainees and learners, administrative staff, core facilities staff, Research Solutions & Services staff, and volunteers make towards A Healthier World through discovery and innovation. If you’re interested in sharing your story, we invite you to complete this form here (Open to UHN staff, trainees and volunteers).