GCI Trainee, Molly Shen Recipient of a 2025 Vanier Scholarship

We are proud to announce that Molly Shen has been awarded a 2025 Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship, one of the country’s most prestigious academic honours. Currently pursuing her PhD in Biomedical and Biological Engineering under the co-supervision of Professors David Juncker and Peter Siegel, Molly is developing a fully 3D-printed, flow-integrated Metastatic-Niche-on-a-Chip to better understand the role of extracellular vesicles in driving breast cancer organotropism.

Metastasis, or the spread of cancer to distant organs, accounts for most cancer-related deaths. In breast cancer, this spread often follows organ-specific patterns, a phenomenon known as organotropism. Tiny, cell-derived particles called extracellular vesicles (EVs) are increasingly recognized as key players in this process. Building on recent advances in 3D-printed Organ-on-a-Chip (OoC) technologies, Molly’s research aims to create a platform that mimics the tumour microenvironment and enables exploration of how EVs shape communication between breast cancer and stromal cells.

Her innovative work stands at the intersection of cancer biology and engineering, offering a powerful new approach to studying the mechanisms of metastasis. With the potential to reveal new biomarkers and therapeutic targets, Molly’s project exemplifies the type of high-impact, interdisciplinary research that the Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Institute fosters.

When asked, “How does this recognition reflect or support the work you’ve been doing?” Molly flips the question, choosing instead to highlight the people and the place that have supported her throughout her journey:

“I’ve had the privilege of being part of the GCI through the co-supervision of Prof. Peter Siegel since my master’s. Over the years, I’ve been continually impressed by the exceptional mentorship, the collaborative spirit, and the wealth of resources that make the GCI such a special place to grow as a budding researcher. I eagerly anticipate the journey ahead—exploring the intersection of engineering and cancer biology, supported and inspired by the GCI community.”

Molly joins an impressive cohort of Vanier Scholars at the GCI. Despite its relatively small size, the GCI currently counts four Vanier Scholars among its trainees. This is a testament to the quality of its mentorship, research environment, and commitment to training future leaders in cancer science.

Congratulations, Molly!