Why did you apply for CareerS?
During my studies I already hoped that I wouldn’t have to choose between research and clinic in my career. In 2021, directly after completing my studies, I found a super position at the Institute of Pathology, where, at an early stage, I was able to participate in clinical studies and smaller research projects. What I wanted to do most of all was carry out my own project involving something close to basic research, but in my everyday work I didn’t have the time. I looked around for funding opportunities and then I came across CareerS. The Clinician Scientist programme is a relatively low threshold opportunity to get into research of your own, and it not only offers financial support but also makes it possible to participate in helpful seminars and exchange views with other young researchers.

What does your current research involve?
I work in the team headed by Wolfgang Hartmann at the Institute of Pathology in Münster, and I’m looking at epigenetic mutations in synovial sarcomas. The synovial sarcoma is a rare tumour which proceeds from the connective tissue and occurs mostly in young adults. There is not as yet any targeted therapy for this tumour. The aim of my project is to gain a better understanding of the underlying mechanism of how tumours occur, in order to find possible therapeutic targets.

What plans do you have for the future?
During my studies I assumed I was going to become a GP – until I learnt more about pathology in my practical year and discovered my passion for histology and research. In future I would like to continue combining clinical work and research and, at some point, head a small research team.

This article was first published in the 2023 annual report of the West German Cancer Center Consortium.