The importance of science communication in cancer research: An interview with Martin Christlieb

Abstract

I trained as a chemist, studying for a PhD at the University of Cambridge. After I left Cambridge, I undertook postdoctoral appointments at Stanford and Oxford. These appointments led me into metal chemistry, initially using the metals as reagents, and finally using metal atoms as the key atom in a series of compounds designed to be radiolabeled markers of tumor hypoxia for positron emission tomography (PET) imaging. Finally I made the move to oncology to give my compounds a chance to be tested in a more biological setting. I am now the public engagement manager in the Department of Oncology at the University of Oxford, where I look for opportunities to discuss our science with school students, adult audiences and people who have been touched by cancer. During my spare time, I am the Adventure Training Officer for Thames Valley RAF Air Cadets, where I work to provide opportunities to allow young people to experience hill walking, climbing, paddlesport, and trail cycling. I am a keen hill walker myself and recently, made it to 6000 m in the Himalayas.