Q: How would you explain the broader significance of your research to a layperson?
A: My research focuses on the clinical care of patients with cancer and patients who are undergoing gynecologic surgery. My goal is to drive innovation for care delivery to ensure that we can offer the most cutting-edge treatments and remain at the forefront of cancer care delivery.
Q: What does your workday typically look like?
A: Busy, with a lot of multi-tasking. I spend my days seeing patients in the clinic and hospital while also performing surgery. In the midst of all of that I find time to work on clinical trials, which also includes mentoring our wonderful medical students, residents and gynecologic oncology fellows.
Q: What role do you play with your research projects?
A: It takes a lot to bring a clinical trial to a patient, including extensive administrative work and safety protocols. I help to ensure that trials run smoothly and that the patients who enroll experience quality care throughout.
Q: What led you to gynecologic oncology?
A: I love working with patients, and I am passionate about women’s health. My first experience on the gynecologic oncology service was during my residency and it felt like home to me. It encompassed all the reasons I felt called to medicine and accomplished all the aspects I wanted in a career.
Q: Why is Penn such a great fit for you and your work?
A: I feel lucky to have spent most of my career here. Penn fosters a collaborative and supportive environment for students, residents, fellows and also faculty to continually move medicine and research forward. People are what make Penn Medicine so special, and I have enjoyed being a part of this family for the past 13 years.
Q: What accomplishments thus far in your career are you most proud of?
A: As junior faculty, I hold some leadership positions in the Department of OBGYN. I am the Chair for Gynecology Quality and Safety, where I help make sure that we are bringing the best care to our patients. I am also proud to represent our inpatient team taking care of our patients as the Physician Lead of our Gynecologic Clinical Effectiveness Team. This role allows me to feel like I am a part of the daily and active changes of how we can best give care.
Q: What is your hope for the future of gynecologic oncology treatment?
A: I would love to find ways for us to cure more patients. It is important to focus on driving momentum, continuing to redefine the gold standard of care, and improving the therapeutic options we can offer.
Q: How do you spend your personal time?
A: I have two boys, ages two and five, who are very active! They are a lot of fun and bring me absolute joy. It is hard being a busy mom and surgeon with the hours we have, but I want to model to them how important it is to take care of other people in whatever they decide to do in life. For exercise, I also find time to play tennis and paddle tennis.
Q: Is there anything else you would like to share?
A: This work is sometimes done at night and on weekends, without funding. We do it because we are passionate about the mission and know that we are at an inflection point. In our lifetimes, we can and will see significant progress for women around the world with gynecologic cancers.
