Immersing yourself in a cancer research lab for the first time is no small feat. Joseph Horsley experienced that first-hand this summer, when he contributed to research led by Dr Jonathan Bramson on a new immunotherapy treatment.
“Being in a lab was very daunting at first – you’re trying to learn different things and there’s so much information coming at you at once,” says Horsley, a third-year health sciences student at McMaster University and a member of Moose Cree First Nation. “With good support, it was eye-opening to adjust to new problems that will arise in the lab and how to go into next steps.”
Horsley was 1 of 4 students funded by the Canadian Cancer Society (CCS) in the IndigiNerds program this year. IndigiNerds helps develop Indigenous students’ research skills in a welcoming environment where they can lean on their community.
By supporting underrepresented students in the lab early on, programs like IndigiNerds foster more equity in cancer research. This leads to solutions that will make a big impact, especially for diverse communities.
A member of the Aundeck Omni Kaning First Nation, King has a personal connection to cancer.
“Seeing how research directly saved my grandpa and aunt has fuelled my dedication to improving the care, support and quality of life for all individuals affected by cancer,” King says.
Collaborating with supportive and capable mentors, peers, and her supervisor has shown King how research acts as a bridge to solving real-world health challenges.
“Looking ahead, I hope to use this foundation to make cancer support services more equitable and accessible.”
“Your support opens doors for us to step into labs, gain valuable hands-on experience, and dedicate ourselves to work that can truly save lives,” she explains. “You are helping fund the next generation of researchers, driving critical scientific breakthroughs and bringing hope into the lives of countless families affected by cancer.”
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