Dr Patricia Carreira is a McGuckin Research Fellow in the Genome Plasticity and Disease research group at Mater Research Institute – University of Queensland.
Patricia’s research focuses on a particular genetic feature shared amongst several cancer types – activation of mobile elements. Patricia’s research imitates aggressive tumour conditions using cancer models to investigate why mobile elements are activated in cancer and how this activation is influencing cancer progression. Her research aims to lay the foundations for the development of mobile element-based diagnostic tools and therapies for multiple cancer types.
Patricia received her bachelor’s degree in biology and a master’s degree in molecular medicine at the University of Santiago de Compostela (Spain). Following this, she pursued a PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the University of Granada (Spain) where she graduated with highest distinction.
Patricia is passionate about science communication, community engagement and gender equity in STEM professions. She is actively involved in educating the next generation of scientists and has supervised two honours students. In addition, Patricia is involved in community outreach programs including initiatives designed to encourage STEM careers in primary and secondary school students, and to engage with consumers and donors, through the Mater Foundation.
“It’s a privilege to be able to pursue research questions I am passionate about that aim to improve cancer patient wellbeing. I consider myself extremely lucky to participate in an inclusive research environment that values the contribution of women, LGBTIAQ+ and people from non-English backgrounds and supports them to thrive.”