2015_03_10_CIE_zafira_castano

Zafira Castaño studied Biochemistry at the School of Sciences of the University of Navarra and after graduating in 2002 she began her doctoral studies at thesis under the supervision of Dr. Rubén Pío. CIMA under the supervision of Dr. Rubén Pío. After a postdoctoral stay and interviews for several laboratories she decided to go to BWH/Harvard Medical School where she studies breast cancer and metastasis.

What does your work consist of?
It consists of deepening the study of biomarkers for the early detection of breast cancer and its metastasis. Thanks to the discoveries made in one of my projects, we have patented a system to detect early and non-invasively, through a blood test sample , which patients are going to have metastasis. In addition, I teach students at doctorate and direct two counseling programs.

In fact, you started an initiative to mentor Spanish researchers, didn't you?
That's right, it's an international program where I bring together experts who advise students from Spanish universities . www.ecusa.es/imp

And what advice do you give to students?
To open their minds, travel abroad, expand their network of work and learn about all the professional opportunities they have. Today there are countless options and they should know about them. Look for what you are passionate about and try to be the best. In addition, it is very important that they look for a good advisor/mentor to guide them along the way.

In this regard, would you highlight the support you received at the University of Navarra?
Of course, especially from the professors, in my case Dr. Pilar Sesma and my director from thesis , Rubén Pío. It is fortunate to still be able to count on their support after so many years.

You have achieved great professional success, but are there more goals for the future?
Of course! If there are no goals, there are no challenges; if there are no challenges, there is no improvement staff. My closest goals are to publish a couple of articles and to advance my research degree program but I also want to expand and above all, to make my International Counseling Program known.