Raquel Buj, PhD, is a new faculty member at UNMC.
- Name: Raquel Buj, PhD
- Title and department at UNMC: Assistant professor, Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases
- Hometown: Castello de la Plana, Spain
Education:
- BS in biology, University of Valencia
- MS in developmental biology and genomics, University of Barcelona
- PhD in genetics, University of Barcelona
Research and professional interests:
My research focuses on understanding how metabolic changes within cancer cells shape both cancer cell behavior and the surrounding microenvironment. I am particularly interested in how these processes influence immune responses and contribute to treatment resistance. By uncovering these fundamental mechanisms, I aim to identify vulnerabilities that can be exploited through pharmacological and dietary interventions to improve patient outcomes.
I am also highly motivated by training the next generation of scientists and creating an environment that fosters rigorous science, intellectual curiosity, creativity and scientific collaboration. I believe that the best discoveries often come from asking bold questions, challenging assumptions and bringing together people with different perspectives and expertise.
How I became interested in cancer research:
As a child, I was fascinated by animals and plants, and after watching “Jurassic Park,” I decided I wanted to be the scientist who brought dinosaurs back to life. While that particular career path did not work out, it sparked a deep curiosity about how living organisms develop and function. Over time, my interests shifted from whole organisms to cells, genes and the molecular mechanisms that govern life.
I ultimately chose cancer research because it combines two things that strongly motivate me: the opportunity to serve society by improving human health and the chance to answer fundamental biological questions. Cancer is, at its core, a disease of cells and their environment, and studying what goes wrong often provides remarkable insights into the biological processes that sustain life.
Professional memberships:
- American Association for Cancer Research
- Editorial Board Member for the journal Translational Oncology
- Advisory Board Member for the journal Biochemical Pharmacology
Three things people may not know about me:
- I’m a huge fan of The Sims franchise. I’ve been playing since the original game was released when I was 13 years old.
- I love fishing, although I have never actually gone fishing. I guess I just like the idea of fishing. One of these days I should probably give it a try.
- I love my cat and the way she completely ignores me just to cuddle with my husband.