My favorite part about cancer biology research is the vast enormity of the field. From topic to context to technical method, our understanding of cancer biology is constantly evolving, yielding an exciting and dynamic space to learn and make discoveries. I study cancer-associated fibroblasts which are a non-cancer, non-immune cell type that exists in nearly all solid tumors. They influence tumor progression through a variety of functions and mechanisms that are still being discovered today. Being part of a team that is actively shaping the definition of this cell type is exhilarating.
As a member of the Committee on Cancer Biology, my broad research interests have been encouraged and developed. I have gained several opportunities to present my work internally with constructive feedback and have a well-established community of students and faculty to exchange thoughts and ideas. The collaborative environment fostered by the Committee on Cancer Biology has led to several scientific partnerships and mentoring opportunities.
Just this year, the Committee on Cancer Biology has given the opportunity to present my thesis work on how “Tumor Nutrient Stress Regulates Cancer-associated Fibroblast Heterogeneity” at two international conferences.
I am honored to have my work funded in part by the NIH/NCI Multi-disciplinary Training grant in Cancer Research (MTCR) T32 and the Robert C and Mary Jane Gallo Scholarship Award.
Marta Storl-Desmond
PhD Candidate