Get to Know ICRN Researchers: Q&A

What does being part of the ICRN or affiliated with CCF mean to you? 

The CCF is such a special organization. It has been a visionary organization with an ability to connect the most amazing scientists and researchers to foster collaboration and incorporate the patient voice in every aspect of our work. Moreover, the leadership of CCF has continued to make participation with this team something that provides value for everyone—I learn from every patient and researcher that I meet.  Even though I have “volunteered” my time with CCF, I have gotten so much more out of my time working with the organization over the years.  The insight to invite thought leaders from around the world and energize them around the cause of serving patient with cholangiocarcinoma has been unbelievably well done, and in my opinion, unmatched in other organizations.

As a senior researcher, what advice would you give to early-career professionals?

Keep going! Research advances happen in fits and starts.  Look for ways to learn from every person you encounter, and be a good collaborator.

What message of hope would you share with CCA patients about your work?

When I started caring for patients with cholangiocarcinoma, we had no interest from companies in finding drugs—we didn’t even have any FDA-approved therapies! We have seen impressive change, but I know there is more to do.  The most hopeful thing for me is the number of incredibly smart, creative and dedicated people who are working on advances for our patients.  Good things are definitely coming!

Fun Question: What’s the last movie, book, or concert you enjoyed? 

My 15-year-old son still lets me read aloud before bed, and we just finished Nate Bargatze’s memoir.  We are headed to see him live later this year.

What does being part of the ICRN or affiliated with CCF mean to you?

Being affiliated with the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation and the International Cholangiocarcinoma Research Network (ICRN) is both a privilege and a profound source of inspiration. It connects me to a global community of clinicians, scientists, and advocates who are all united by a shared mission: to improve outcomes for patients with this devastating disease. The sense of collaboration and shared purpose fuels my commitment to push the boundaries of research and accelerate meaningful advances.

As a junior investigator, how has getting involved with CCF helped your career?

The support from CCF has been transformative for my career. It provided me with the resources and visibility to launch a focused research program on the tumor immune microenvironment in cholangiocarcinoma, an area that remains vastly underexplored. Through mentorship, networking opportunities, and dedicated platforms to present my work, CCF has helped me grow not just as a researcher but as an advocate for patients affected by this cancer.

What message of hope would you share with CCA patients about your work?

My message to patients is that your courage drives our science. Our team is working tirelessly to unravel how the immune system interacts with cholangiocarcinoma, with the goal of developing more precise and effective therapies. Every tissue sample and data point we study brings us one step closer to unlocking new treatments and improving survival. We are making progress—and we will not stop until better options are available for every patient.

Fun Question: What’s the last movie, book, or concert you enjoyed?

I recently watched Mad Unicorn, a gripping Thai series that follows the entrepreneurial journey behind a high-stakes logistics startup aiming to become the country’s first unicorn.  It’s a story about perseverance in the face of overwhelming odds—a theme that resonates strongly with my journey in research. I’d recommend it to anyone who appreciates stories of quiet determination and resilience, especially those looking for hope and inspiration in the face of challenges.