October Cancer Awareness Month: Featuring Cerebral Organoid Research from Jessica Gosio
Author: Emily Nguyen
To finish off October with our final post on the topic of cancer awareness, I had the pleasure of speaking with Jessica Gosio, a 4th year PhD candidate in Molecular Genetics at the University of Toronto.
Jessica worked on many projects during her neuroscience specialist and psychology minor undergraduate studies, from clinical research to basic science. However, she found her interests in the areas of cancer and the implications of impaired neurodevelopmental pathways.
She currently conducts research in Dr. Wrana’s lab at The Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute in affiliation with Mount Sinai Hospital. Her primary work focuses on glioblastoma, the most aggressive form of brain cancer with no new treatment having been developed for over a decade. Her research involves growing cerebral organoids, which are mini brains derived from human stem cell lines. Jessica then uses these organoids as models for brain tumours by microinjecting them with glioblastomas from patient samples. She hopes to use these findings to inform the development of clinical trials that will test various drug efficacies in cancer patients.
“I chose to study cancer because I like learning about development using organoids, and cancer is basically just confused development through the same pathways. My research really allowed me to merge the 2 fields together.”
Jessica started her research experience very early in her 1st year of undergrad at Toronto General Hospital. She was responsible for clinical data entry and eventually expanded her skill sets which allowed her to branch out to other disciplines. She went on to complete a 3rd year thesis project course under the supervision of Dr. van der Kooy. In her 4th year, she did another thesis project course, but under the guidance of Dr. Tropepe. Throughout this process, she engaged in personal learning and made it her goal to try things on her own before seeking feedback from her PI. I was curious in understanding how one could get involved in such a wide range of research, as it can be challenging for undergraduate students to find their place amongst the variety of options available.
Jessica credits her success to her passion and her willingness to take initiative.
“I would highly suggest sending out thoughtful emails to professors and including your CV (not your transcript, unless requested…a great tip!) If you don’t hear back, it most likely means that they are busy. Don’t be afraid to send follow up emails! You ultimately want a lab that will teach you, they are aware that you don’t have much experience as an undergrad. Also, if you have ideas, propose them! You could very well create your own project once you are settled into a lab that you like.”
Changing labs every year allowed Jessica to work with various models, from zebrafish, to mice, and now to humans. Her natural curiosity pairs wonderfully with research that will allow her to help countless individuals over a long period of time. Jessica refers to it as a “high risk, high reward” process that she greatly enjoys.
Despite all the great research being produced in a lab, work can get stressful. Jessica describes herself as a very sociable person who strives to achieve a positive work-life balance.
“I like to take time off on Sundays in order to avoid burnout. It’s important to make time for yourself if you want to have a longer career!”
When asked about the challenges of graduate school, Jessica emphasizes the prevalence of imposter system: the feeling of not knowing enough and the fear that others will find out.
“This strong form of self-doubt can be taunting, however, it’s important to realize that there is a steep learning curve in a lab because often times, everyone comes from different fields. Embrace it, and leverage the skills that you’ve learned so far. These helped you get to where you are today.”
And lastly, regarding Jessica’s plans for the future, she hopes to get involved in academia and become a professor. She is also open to exploring start-up opportunities and science outreach through social media and high school education events.
At the end of the day, don’t be afraid to take a risk and be curious. It may lead you to a new PI, a unique project, and a revelation on what you are truly passionate about.
Follow us on Instagram @storiesofwise !
