Biography

Having dedicated over two decades to conducting fundamental and translational research, specifically on solid tumor malignancies, I possess extensive expertise as a molecular oncology researcher. Over the past 8 years, my focus has been on the most common special histological subtype, a highly hormone-sensitive form of breast cancer known as invasive Lobular Breast Carcinoma (ILC). 
My drive stems from a deep passion for uncovering hidden biological phenomena in translational oncology research. My expertise lies in pioneering preclinical cancer models, particularly ER-positive breast cancers, addressing this subtype's lack of clinically relevant preclinical models. I have achieved significant breakthroughs, including developing a game-changing in vivo intraductal model that closely mimics patient responses to treatments and metastasis as well as cutting-edge experimental methods and tools that have expanded the horizons of preclinical and translational ILC research.

Current work

I currently lead Working Group 4 for ILC Model Systems. This initiative is a crucial part of the EU-funded COST Action LOBSTERPOT (CA19138), orchestrated by the European Lobular Breast Cancer Consortium (ELBCC). Our goal is to enhance the understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of ILC, thereby making significant strides in the fight against this disease. As a member of the scientific advisory board subcommittee of the Lobular Breast Cancer Alliance (LBCA), I am actively involved in promoting the development of innovative research models for ILC.