Neuroblastoma (NB) is the most common solid childhood cancer, accounting for 15% of all pediatric cancer deaths. High-risk cases, especially those with MYCN gene amplification (MNA), are highly aggressive, with survival rates below 50% despite intensive chemotherapy, which comes with severe side effects. MYCN is a key driver of NB, not only promoting tumor growth but also rewiring cancer cell metabolism. My research focuses on MYCN’s role in mitochondria, the cell’s energy hubs, and whether targeting mitochondrial function could reveal potential therapeutic vulnerability for treating MNA NB. My research aims to: 1) Understand the role of MYCN in the mitochondria of MNA NB cells: Investigating how it controls mitochondrial function, energy production, and cancer metabolism. 2) Test new treatments: Evaluating mitochondrial inhibitors, to see if they can effectively target MNA NB. 3) Develop combination therapies: Testing new drug combinations to enhance treatment effectiveness while reducing drug dosage and toxicity.
Looking back, I can really see how much my science, analytical, and writing skills improved over the years. You don’t notice it day to day, but at some point, you realize you have become a much stronger researcher. One of the best parts was getting to attend conferences and workshops around Europe (the UK, Netherlands, France, Spain..) to present my research and learn from others. It was both exciting and intimidating at first, but it really helped me gain confidence in my work. I also really enjoyed the freedom I had in shaping my research project; testing new hypotheses, following unexpected results, and initiating collaborations with other labs. Having that independence made the whole experience much more exciting and rewarding.
A PhD can feel intimidating at first, but trust the process. If you are committed, motivated, and hardworking, things will eventually fall into place. One of the most crucial factors is joining a good lab with a principal investigator who is willing to invest time in guiding you; someone who will support you along the way. I do not believe a PhD is about suffering or just pushing through. It’s a challenging but rewarding learning experience where you grow as a researcher. Surround yourself with the right people, stay curious, and don't forget to enjoy the journey.
First, the chance to be part of a great institute like Systems Biology Ireland, with two great supervisors who were present and supportive throughout my entire PhD. That definitely made a huge difference. I am also involved in the social committee, organizing events and fundraisers for my institute, which is a good way to bring people together. Another big plus was the UCD campus itself; it has so many sports facilities, something I didn’t have back in Paris during my BSc and MSc, so I really appreciated that aspect.