My research has been inspired by deep curiosity and a desire to make a tangible difference in people’s lives.”
Irina Palacin Aliana (she/her)
Postdoctoral Scholar in the Radiation Oncology Department
Dr. Irina Palacin Aliana is a postdoctoral scholar in the Radiation Oncology Department in the Feinberg School of Medicine. She researches gliomas—brain and spinal cord tumors—examining their interaction with their environment and testing innovative tools to understand their resilience.
How would you describe your research and/or work to a non-academic audience?
I analyze how brain tumors interact with their environment and test innovative tools to see what makes some tumors so stubborn.
Tell us what inspired your research and/or work.
My research has been inspired by deep curiosity and a desire to make a tangible difference in people’s lives.
Whom do you admire in your field and otherwise, and why?
Amy B. Heimberger—I consider her a role model as an empowered woman physician and researcher.
What do you find both rewarding and challenging about your research and/or work?
Knowing that our collaborative work contributes to better understanding and potentially treating gliomas. Like many researchers, I've faced constraints in funding, time, or access to certain technologies, which can make ambitious ideas harder to realize.
What is the biggest potential impact or implication of your work?
By using innovative therapeutical approaches, we can make a difference for glioma patients.
Why Northwestern?
Northwestern University is home to several distinguished researchers who have made significant contributions to glioma research.
What advice would you give your younger self or someone considering a similar path?
Don’t be afraid to change. Interests, careers, and methods evolve. Whether it’s shifting from pure research to a more application-based role or changing your focus to a new area of study, be open to pivoting when it feels right. Your skill set is versatile, and embracing new opportunities can open doors you may never have anticipated.
Tell us about a current achievement or something you're working on that excites you.
I achieved the opportunity to start my own lab. It excites me but it terrifies me at the same time.
Tell us about a time when things did not go as you planned, what did you learn?
In research a lot of things don't go as planned. This year, I realized the power of collaboration—reaching out to colleagues or mentors for advice provided fresh perspectives. Failure is a natural part of the scientific process, and every mistake or detour carries a lesson that leads to growth.
What are you most proud of in your career to date?
Not giving up on my career as a researcher. It has been tough finding resources to continue but with good work and patience everything is possible.
Publish Date: February 4, 2024
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