The Cancer Center at Illinois (CCIL) has more than 120 members from across the Illinois campus. Given the great variety in backgrounds, research disciplines, and experiences of our members, we offer our Q&A series “Get to Know a Cancer Researcher” to provide readers a connection with the amazing array of individuals who comprise the CCIL’s robust cancer research team. This is the second installment.
CCIL Member: Cecilia Leal
CCIL Research Program: Cancer Technology and Data Science
CCIL Research Theme: Molecular Measurement
Faculty Position: Professor, Materials Science and Engineering
What originally drew you to cancer research?
My expertise lies at the intersection of fundamental chemistry, physics, and engineering. I am drawn to the idea that core biophysical and biochemical principles are often foundational for the development of new cancer therapies. This scientific motivation is also personal: my mother, and most of her family, died at a young age due to cancer.
What cancer problems are you seeking to address in your lab?
My laboratory is mostly focused on developing new materials to target cancer cells and deliver a payload of therapeutic genes.
What keeps you going in your research? How do you recharge?
The enthusiasm, motivation, and brilliance of my lab members. I also have a strong and supportive community at Illinois, along with a stimulating environment and resources that foster meaningful collaboration.
What are fun or quirky facts about you that others may not know?
I enjoy going out dancing late at night and driving my electric Vespa on a sunny day pretending I’m in Portugal.
Can you tell us a favorite film or book of yours?
Ah, that’s hard to choose. “La vita è Bella” is a movie that comes to mind, because it’s about finding hope and generosity in times of extreme misfortune. “Interstellar” makes me contemplate; I’ve seen it five times. I devour all Jane Harper’s mystery books, but perhaps one of my favorite books is Tomorrow in the Battle Think of Me by Javier Marías.
What accomplishment(s) are you most proud of, and why?
Perhaps completing a Ph.D. I grew up poor in rural Portugal. My parents only completed 4th grade (as a result of the Salazar dictatorship that restricted access to education).
What is the best advice you’ve ever received, and how has it shaped your research career?
I’ve had many meaningful mentors throughout my career, so it’s difficult to single out “the best.” But one piece of advice has stayed with me: a professor’s most important role is to inspire and guide the next generation of scholars. My lab is built around that principle, even if it means that our publications take more time. I value the process of discovery and the opportunity to educate students through it.
Stay tuned for more weekly installments in our “Get to Know a Cancer Researcher” series.
Editor’s notes:
Cecilia Leal can be reached at cecilial@illinois.edu.
This story was written by Jonathan King, CCIL Communications Specialist.