Professor Chun Ju Chang, a prominent cancer biologist with decades of experience at leading institutions, is highlighting an urgent need for stronger mentorship and education in cancer research. This call comes as the World Health Organization projects global cancer cases will reach 28 million annually by 2040, increasing pressure on research systems worldwide. Chang argues that the future of cancer science depends not just on funding and equipment, but on investing in the people conducting the research.
Research published in Nature supports Chang's position, showing that early-career scientists with strong mentors are twice as likely to publish high-impact studies and remain in research roles long-term. Despite this evidence, structured mentorship remains inconsistent across institutions. Chang has observed this gap firsthand throughout her career at institutions including UCLA, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, and Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center.
The mentorship deficit has significant consequences for both individual careers and scientific progress. Studies indicate many early-career scientists leave research within their first ten years due to burnout, lack of guidance, and unclear career paths. "I've watched talented students lose confidence because no one slowed down to explain the process," Chang said. "Often, it only takes one person sitting down and walking through the data to change everything."
Beyond technical skill development, Chang believes strong mentorship builds judgment, resilience, and confidence. "Experiments fail all the time," she noted. "What matters is learning how to resolve the issues without panic. That mindset comes from guidance, not textbooks." This guidance directly impacts research quality, with well-mentored teams producing clearer data, fewer errors, and stronger collaboration.
Mentorship also plays a crucial role in addressing diversity gaps in science. According to UNESCO, less than 30% of researchers worldwide are women, with even lower representation in senior scientific roles. Chang views mentorship as one of the most effective tools for creating more inclusive research environments. "Talent exists everywhere," she emphasized. "What's missing is consistent support. When people feel seen and guided, they stay and contribute."
Rather than focusing solely on policy reform, Chang emphasizes individual action. "You don't need a formal title to mentor someone," she said. "You just need patience and a willingness to listen." She encourages practical steps including encouraging curiosity in students, sharing knowledge openly, offering guidance to early-career researchers, promoting inclusive environments, and supporting science education through various programs.
As cancer research grows increasingly complex, Chang believes mentorship will become even more essential. "The science will keep changing," she concluded. "The need for good guidance will not. If we get that right, everything else becomes possible." With global cancer cases rising and research systems under pressure, strengthening mentorship represents a critical investment in both scientific talent and future discoveries.
