“As soon as the result was announced, a whirlwind of memories came to mind. After 24 years within the university, working as an undergraduate student, medical resident, contracted physician, and postgraduate student, it was emotional to have the opportunity to reach a new stage in my academic career,” says Dr. Lígia Traldi Macedo, medical oncologist and associate researcher at CEPID CancerThera, who will take on a position as Professor of Clinical Oncology in the Department of Radiology and Oncology at the Faculty of Medical Sciences (FCM) of the University of Campinas (Unicamp).

The result, announced in the final stage of the selection process held on September 26, recognizes her solid research trajectory and significant contribution to the field of Oncology. “Every academic journey is marked by challenges, moments of success and failure, and mine has been no different so far. I am eternally grateful to my colleagues, family, and professors who supported me and allowed me to reach this moment,” she emphasizes.

Dr. Carmen Silvia Passos Lima (on the left), hematologist and oncologist, principal investigator at CancerThera, and one of Macedo’s mentors throughout her journey at Unicamp, enthusiastically congratulated the new professor, wishing “that she has great success in her career.” The relationship of respect and partnership between them reflects the collaborative spirit of the university, an institution that stands out for training scientific leaders in Oncology.

A trajectory dedicated to positive impact

With a notable career in cancer research, Macedo works on studies focused on identifying prognostic factors in patients treated with conventional therapies and leads research investigating the responses and toxicities of chemotherapeutic agents.

Among her studies, one highlight is the evaluation of the use of Prostate-Specific Membrane Antigen (PSMA) in Positron Emission Tomography (PET-CT) for head and neck tumors, notably squamous cell carcinomas. This study aims to verify if PSMA is taken up by these cells, with the potential to be adapted for use as a theranostic agent.

She is also dedicated to identifying genetic abnormalities in different types of cancer, studying genetic predisposition to neoplasms and their clinical manifestations. Her work aims not only for early diagnosis but also the development of preventive strategies and personalized therapies.

Outlining her expectations for the future, Macedo states: “Cancer is currently the second leading cause of death worldwide, and its relevance in medical education, as well as in outreach and research activities, is undeniable. I hope to contribute significantly by strengthening the faculty in this specialty. Additionally, I intend to expand my work in translational and clinical research, in an effort to collaborate with advancements that can positively impact cancer treatment.”