Episode #22: How a Biologist and a Mathematician Are Rewriting the Future of Breast Cancer Research
What do weather prediction models have to do with breast cancer? In the latest episode of All Things Cancer, cancer biologist Dr. Lisa Coussens and computational scientist Dr. Elana Fertig break down their unlikely NFCR-funded collaboration — and why it’s changing how researchers understand breast cancer.
Coussens’ path wound through art school, marine biology, and an early stint at Genentech before she became a leading voice in cancer immunology. Fertig came at science from the opposite direction — a lifelong puzzle-solver who applied advanced math to weather prediction before turning those same tools toward biology.
Their partnership, born from an NFCR grant designed to fund cross-disciplinary research, brought Coussens’ complex breast cancer datasets together with Fertig’s data integration expertise — work she compares to a marriage: “There has to be a connection… and a give and take.”
The two discuss combining four different anti-cancer therapies in a breast cancer model, why basic science funding is more at risk than ever, and why Fertig pushes back on AI as a “magic wand” for cancer care — arguing it’s only as good as the biology and data behind it.
Listen to the full episode of All Things Cancer — available anywhere you listen.
About All Things Cancer
Each episode of All Things Cancer will spotlight the most pressing topics in oncology, from cutting-edge treatments and emerging research to personal stories of resilience and hope. More than just a podcast, it’s a platform for raising awareness, advancing cancer education, and fostering a global community of support and collaboration.
Hosted by NFCR CEO, Sujuan Ba, Ph.D., this compelling series will bring together the entire ecosystem of cancer research—including leading scientists, oncologists, doctors, patient advocates, caregivers, biotech innovators, and survivors—for powerful discussions on the breakthroughs shaping the future of cancer research, treatment, and care.
All Things Cancer is now available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, with new episodes released biweekly.
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