Summary
In this episode, Dr. Amy Wilson shares her journey as an ovarian cancer researcher, discussing her motivations and challenges, the complexities of ovarian cancer, and the challenges faced in the field. She highlights the importance of immunotherapy, the role of leader cells in chemoresistance, and the potential of drug repurposing. Dr. Wilson also emphasizes the need for better communication between scientists and the community, the significance of research foundations in funding, the importance of patient involvement in science, and the challenges that women face in heathcare system. The conversation concludes with a call to action for participation in Frocktober, a campaign to raise awareness for ovarian cancer.

Keywords:
Ovarian cancer, immunotherapy, drug repurposing, cancer research, women’s health, ovarian cancer foundation, leader cells, science communication, hereditary cancer, research funding.

Takeaways:
Curiosity drives scientific inquiry from a young age. Personal experiences can shape one’s career path in science.
Ovarian cancer is often diagnosed at a late stage, complicating treatment.

Immunotherapy has not been as successful in ovarian cancer as in other cancers.

Leader cells contribute to chemotherapy resistance and disease recurrence.

Drug repurposing can be a cost-effective strategy in cancer treatment.

Effective science communication is crucial for public understanding.

Research foundations play a vital role in funding innovative cancer research.

Collaboration between scientists and the community enhances research impact.

Diversity in science is essential for addressing health inequities.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Ovarian Cancer Research

01:39 Curiosity drives Science

03:21 Link between Music and Science

06:30 Transitioning to Ovarian Cancer Research

09:07 Understanding Ovarian Cancer

12:16 Types and Prognosis of Ovarian Cancer

14:53 Inherited Ovarian and Breast Cancer

16:55 Postdoctoral Research on Leader Cells

20:12 Mechanisms of Metastasis and Treatment Resistance 23:40 Immunotherapy Challenges in Ovarian Cancer

27:43 Drug Repurposing in Cancer Treatment

30:56 Lessons from Failures in Research

32:50 Impact of Research on Community and Transition to Advocacy

34:58 Navigating Research Challenges

35:56 The Critical Role of Research Foundations

39:13 Bridging the Gap Between Research and Patients 41:15 Communicating Science Effectively

43:16 Communicating Science through Social Media and Frocktober

45:28 Advocacy and the Importance of Community

49:31 Key Factors for Success in Her Scientific Career

50:51 Challenges Faced by Women in Science

51:36 Passion for Women’s Health Advocacy

55:00 Advice for Junior Scientists

56:23 Frocktober: Raising Awareness for Ovarian Cancer

Music: “Wescience Podcast Intro”
Artist: Wescience Podcast Composer: Carlos Aya Bonilla © 2025 Carlos Aya —

All rights reserved.Available in Youtube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram and Tik Tok with @WeSciencePodcast handle. Website: www.drcarlosayabonilla.com