my story

I believe that to deeply understand something, it must be observed from multiple viewpoints. To learn about myself, and experience a different culture, I moved from the USA to Italy after college. Although it took a while, I eventually found myself surrounded by friends and loved ones, and met my now-wife. By learning how others from another culture experience their day to day adventures, I developed and realized how I wish to carry myself. 

While in Italy, I lived in Milan where I studied biology and worked at IFOM, the AIRC institute for Molecular Oncology. There, I completed my Ph.D., studying telomeres and their role in a certain type of cancer called Alternative Lengthening of Telomeres. While learning about life in Italy, and life under a microscope, I also learned about how science fits into life outside of the classroom, lab, or hospital. I realized that scientists have a responsibility to communicate to the public. However, this responsibility is increasingly challenging to meet. Break-neck speeds of discovery have made it difficult – even for experts – to stay on top of recent advancements. Ideally scientists would be the first to share their work with the public, however the first and most important thing on their minds is discovery, often leaving little space for figuring out how to communicate with the public. 

Enter communicators. Spreading knowledge spreads power – the power to advocate for yourself or those you hold dear. By providing clear and accurate explanations of phenomena in biology, science communicators can help lay people understand a topic without sounding like a textbook, or requiring one to be read. While becoming an expert is still a laborious process, understanding new discoveries is doable with adequate communication.

I learned I have a passion for science communication while studying telomeres in Milan, and sought to practice whenever possible. I began to see a spark in the listener’s eyes as I got better at explaining how telomeres protect our DNA, and why telomeres are intimately linked to cancer. With articles I write for Within Oncology, I hope to give people an accurate, yet approachable viewpoint of how cancer works, and how we deal with it. These articles will describe oncology from many angles, allowing for a deeper understanding and thus equipping readers with the knowledge needed to be an advocate for themselves, or their loved ones in need.

Corey

my Values

1. Compassion
2. Clarity
3. Making Life Larger
4. Honesty
5. Flexibility
6. Objectivity

my vision

Captivating readers and listeners while clearly and accurately spreading knowledge of biology.