In this post we will try to answer the following question: Is it worth pursuing a PhD? The post consists of an extract of 10 questions from the transcript of an interview conducted with a student of doctorate: Juan Diego Diaz.
Juan Diego is focused on cancer epigenetics research and his lab has made significant advances in the field. We are excited to have the opportunity to speak with him and learn more about his work and his experience in the field. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center New York.
Is it worth doing a PhD? This may be a typical question, but I'm sure there are a lot of people asking themselves this question right now.
JD In my opinion, yes, it is worth doing a PhD. The truth is that doing a PhD is very demanding and can have disastrous consequences for mental health. It is common to accumulate wear and tear. However, I consider that I have a vocation for research and that is essential to face the moments that may be critical during this stage.
How do you stay motivated during your research and PhD work?
JD To stay motivated during research work and the PhD, it is important to have a passion for the research topic and a clear understanding of how the results of the research can have a positive impact on society. I like to think that our findings have the potential to improve the lives of many people. It can also be helpful to have the support of a network of friends and colleagues who share the same interests and goals.
Tell us a little about your PhD: What is your PhD research topic?
JD My PhD research focuses on cancer epigenetics and how changes in gene expression at the epigenetic level can contribute to cancer development and progression. I am interested in how we can use this information to develop new therapies and treatments for different types of cancer.
What exactly is epigenetics?
JD Epigenetics is the study of how gene expression patterns can be modified without altering the DNA sequence of a gene. Epigenetic changes can be caused by external factors, such as environment or lifestyle, and can have a significant impact on gene function and on the development and health of an organism.
Epigenetic changes can manifest themselves in different ways, such as modification of methylations of nucleotides in DNA or modification of proteins that bind to DNA. These changes can control gene activity and thus influence the development and functioning of cells and tissues.
What led you to choose Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center to pursue your PhD?
JD This institution is a reference centre for cancer research and I had always wanted to participate in research that could improve the understanding of cancer and the ability to act on different cancer diseases. I was lucky enough to finish my master's studies here, I collaborated with a laboratory at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and as they say: one thing led to another.
What has been the most difficult part of your PhD experience so far?
JD Without a doubt, the most difficult part of my PhD experience has been balancing research work with academic and personal obligations. A PhD is a huge commitment of time and effort, and it can sometimes be difficult to find time for everything.
What are the main challenges you have faced in your research into cancer epigenetics?
JD One of the main difficulties in cancer epigenetics research is the complexity of the process. Cancer is a complex disease that can affect many different types of cells and tissues and can be caused by a wide variety of factors. Cancer epigenetics involves studying how changes in gene expression at the epigenetic level can contribute to cancer development and progression, and it can be difficult to understand how these changes affect cells and the body as a whole.
What important advances has your laboratory made in the field of cancer epigenetics and how have these discoveries been applied in clinical practice?
JD Our laboratory has made significant advances in cancer epigenetics in areas such as cell cycle regulation, epigenetic regulation, and immunology. These discoveries have been applied in clinical practice by creating personalized therapies and treatments based on epigenetics, which offer more specific therapeutic targets for cancer patients. This is especially useful in minimizing the side effects of other cancer treatments that produced a very noticeable reduction in the quality of life of patients.
What advice would you give to someone interested in pursuing a career in cancer research and epigenetics?
JD My advice to someone interested in cancer research and epigenetics is that they should be consistent and keep up to date with the latest advances in science and discoveries. They should work day in and day out and should have a passion for science.
What is your next step in your career and how do you hope to apply what you have learned during your PhD in your future work?
JD My next step in my professional career is to continue expanding the scope of my research through collaboration with other scientists in the field of cancer epigenetics. I hope to apply what I have learned during my PhD to contribute to the advancement of science and ultimately improve the lives of cancer patients.
