Donors Make a Difference: Yuliang Wang

Yuliang Wang, second-year PhD student in Experimental Medicine, received the 2024 Charlotte and Leo Karassik Foundation Oncology PhD Fellowship. This scholarship is designed to support outstanding trainees at McGill University pursuing research at the Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Institute (GCI).

Under the supervision of Prof. Morag Park, Yuliang focuses on identifying novel therapeutic targets for triple-negative breast cancer. Triple-negative breast cancer accounts for about 10-15% of all breast cancers, and is a fast-growing and aggressive subtype of the disease which is difficult to treat. Yuliang explores both the cell-intrinsic and extrinsic functions of novel biomarker candidates in an effort to provide deeper insights into the disease and devise new strategies for targeting it in the clinic, especially in cases of therapy resistance.

As he works to unravel the mysteries of breast cancer, the Karassik Fellowship provides him with significant financial support, allowing him to focus on pushing his research forward and making a real difference in the lives of those affected by cancer. “This assistance is invaluable in helping me advance my work”, Yuliang shares.

However, beyond the financial aid, being awarded this studentship represents a meaningful recognition of his contribution to breast cancer research. Especially as a junior PhD student, acknowledgement from the community is vital to remain motivated in one’s scientific career, which can contain many obstacles and setbacks. He expresses his appreciation for such encouragement: “Conducting scientific research in the field of cancer is a challenging and lengthy journey, and the first year has truly highlighted this for me. This award serves as a powerful reminder that I am not alone on this path. It reassures me that I have the support of many kind individuals who share the same dedication and belief in my work.”

On his quest to improve outcomes for patients with triple-negative breast cancer, who urgently need better treatment options, this award strengthens Yuliang’s determination to continue his research, and inspires him to work harder to honor the trust and support that this recognition represents. Indeed, the strength of the GCI community is a driving force behind our researchers’ successes, imbuing them with the resilience and tenacity necessary to continue tackling difficult problems in cancer research.