In this episode of Inside Cancer Careers, we discuss the significance of mentorship in cancer research with one of the 2025 NCI Outstanding Mentor Awardees, Dr. Andrea Apolo, and two of her fellows, Dr. Saad Atiq and Dr. Andre Kydd. They explore the evolution of mentoring styles, the importance of communication within teams, and the innovative research being conducted at the NCI, particularly in bladder cancer and immunotherapy. The conversation also delves into the career paths of the guests, highlighting their motivations and experiences in the field of oncology. In this engaging conversation, the speakers share their personal journeys into the field of medicine, mainly focusing on bladder cancer research. They discuss the importance of mentorship, the challenges faced in clinical research, the human element of patient care, and more.

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SHOW NOTES
Andrea Apolo, M.D.
Saad Atiq, M.D.
Andre Kydd, M.D.
Genitourinary Malignancies Branch
Center for Cancer Research
Hematology Oncology Fellowship
ASCO AACR Methods in Clinical Cancer Research Workshop
Robert A. Winn Diversity in Clinical Trials Career Development Award
AD: NanCI-Connecting Scientists mobile application

YOUR TURN RECOMMENDATIONS
“I would recommend starting a tradition with your family, with your loved ones, and it becomes really special after many years.” – Dr. Apolo
“…ask as many why questions as they can to never shut down those why questions…” – Dr. Kydd
Overcooked on Nintendo Switch

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