Program: PhD in Interdisciplinary Oncology
Year in Program: 4
What inspired you to pursue your program?
I was drawn to the Interdisciplinary Oncology Program (IOP) because of its strong culture of collaboration and focus on translational research. Cancer is incredibly complex, and solving its challenges requires input from scientists across disciplines. The IOP brings together researchers from diverse fields like immunology, genomics, drug development and many more, which ultimately creates opportunities for truly impactful, patient-focused science. Being part of a program where collaboration is the norm allows us to ask more ambitious questions and design stronger studies with real clinical relevance.
Why did you choose UBC?
Ever since I was a kid, I knew I wanted to go to UBC. I think it was the Nitobe Gardens that really sold it for me! I did my undergrad in the Biochemistry and Forensic Science program and fell in love with the unique training opportunities and tight-knit community. Once I decided to pursue cancer research, staying at UBC for grad school was a no-brainer. Doing my PhD with Dr. Kevin Bennewith has been incredibly rewarding. His mentorship and the collaborative environment at BC Cancer have shaped how I approach research and deepened my passion for translational science.
Tell me about your research.
My research focuses on understanding the tumor microenvironment, which is the complex community of cells and signals that surround a tumor. In many cancers, this environment suppresses the immune system, making it harder for immunotherapies to work. I study how we can reprogram that environment to better support immune cells, especially T cells, so they can effectively recognize and destroy cancer. By identifying ways to make tumors more “immune-friendly,” my work aims to improve the success of immunotherapy for aggressive cancers that don’t currently respond well to treatment.
What are you most looking forward to this year?
This year, I’m especially excited to present my findings at scientific conferences and connect with researchers who share a passion for cancer immunotherapy. I’m also excited to mentor another round of incoming students through my role as a teaching assistant. But mostly, I’m looking forward to continuing my work alongside my lab mates, who have quickly become like family. The collaborative and supportive environment we’ve built makes even the toughest experiment days seem fun, and I feel lucky to be surrounded by people who challenge and inspire me every day.