Creating a mathematical representation of what’s happening in cancer

TheoryLab

Dr. Stacey Finley develops mathematical models to better understand cancer, tumor growth, and the effectiveness of different therapies. Her team creates a mathematical representation of what’s happening in biology, so they can understand how reactions are happening in cells, how cells are interacting with one other, and how that influences the growth of a tumor. They can use that data to create simulations and make predictions about what could happen, all with the goal of finding more effective treatments for cancer patients. Using mathematical modeling, “we can try as many ideas as we can think of, in a shorter amount of time, with fewer resources, and with fewer dollars to spend, compared to doing experimental studies.” Dr. Finley provides the best explanation of mathematical modeling you’re likely to hear. But she also spoke at length about her approach to scientific mentoring and had wonderful advice for other young women of color who are aspiring scientists. Stacey Finley, PhD, is Associate Professor of Biomedical Engineering and the Gordon S. Marshall Early Career Chair at the University of Southern California. 3:51 – On systems biology and why it’s important to understand networks of reactions happening inside of cells instead of looking at one reaction at a time 5:38 – Why the immune system is a nice platform for looking at system-level behavior 8:22 – Mathematical modeling? What is that? 11:00 – Some great examples of how mathematical models are helpful to understanding cancer 15:20 – The process: use experimental data and clinical data to build a reliable mathematical model to make useful predictions; do simulations; make predictions; work with collaborators to test and validate the predictions; impact patient care 19:03 – An aspect of her research she’s particularly excited about 26:23 – Her approach to scientific mentoring and lessons she’s learned along the way 31:18 – Advice for aspiring mathematicians, scientists, and engineers who are young women of color 35:05 – Ways that she thinks funding agencies could make careers in cancer research more inclusive 40:01 – How ACS funding has impacted her research and career 45:04 – A message she’d like to share with people whose lives have been impacted by cancer