Dr. Chun Ju Chang grew up in Taiwan with a passion for science that shaped her future career. She went on to earn a Ph.D. in the United States, where she quickly stood out for her research in cancer biology.
Her early work was recognised with many awards, highlighting both her academic excellence and her ability to lead among peers.
After completing postdoctoral training at a leading cancer centre in Texas, Chang continued to collect recognition for her productivity and innovative work. She received the Heath Memorial Fund Outstanding Research Publication Award and the Amgen Award in Basic Science Research at MD Anderson Cancer Center, among others. These achievements confirmed her as a rising voice in cancer science.
Her career took her to New York, where she served as an Associate Professor at a renowned cancer research institution. There, she not only expanded her research portfolio but also mentored young scientists, shaping the next generation of leaders. Today, she is a Professor in Taiwan, where she combines teaching, research, and international collaboration.
Chang is also a committed member of the global scientific community, including the Women in Cancer Research group within the American Association of Cancer Research. Her career reflects a dedication not only to advancing knowledge but also to building systems that support young researchers.
Through decades of study, collaboration, and leadership, Chun Ju Chang has established herself as a respected figure in cancer research and education worldwide.
Q: Can you tell us about your early life and what led you to pursue a career in science?
I grew up in Taiwan, and from a young age I was fascinated by how the human body works. I enjoyed problem-solving, and science felt like a natural path. When I had the opportunity to continue my studies in the United States, I knew I wanted to focus on something that combined curiosity with impact. That’s how I chose cancer biology.
Q: What was your experience like during your doctoral studies?
Studying for my Ph.D. in Los Angeles was a formative time. I spent long hours in the laboratory but it was very rewarding. I also became active in the student community, which led to being recognised with the Graduate Student Representative Award from my department. Those experiences taught me that leadership in science isn’t only about research results, but also about building a community of support.
Q: You went on to do postdoctoral training at a leading cancer centre. How did that shape your career?
The years I spent in Texas were intense but also pivotal. I had the chance to work alongside brilliant colleagues and was pushed to publish at a high level. Receiving awards like the Amgen Award in Basic Science Research and the AACR Women in Cancer Research Scholar Award helped me see that my work was highly recognized in the field and could have influence beyond the laboratory.
Q: You later held a faculty position in New York. What did you take away from that experience?
Becoming an Associate Professor at Roswell Park was a milestone. One of the most valuable parts of my job was mentoring students and postdocs. I remember one student who struggled with experimental design in the beginning but grew into an independent scientist by the end of their training. That transformation reminded me why teaching is as important as publishing papers.
Q: What is your current role and focus?
Now I am a Professor at China Medical University in Taiwan. My work balances three areas: research, teaching, and international collaboration. I continue to publish on cancer biology, but I also spend a lot of time guiding younger scientists. Education is critical if we want the next generation to continue making progress.
Q: What trends in your field excite you the most today?
One of the most exciting areas is the integration of data science into cancer research. When I first started, much of the work was purely laboratory-based. Now, bioinformatics allows us to see patterns we never could before. This opens the door to more personalised approaches to treatment. I also think international collaboration is a powerful trend. Cancer does not recognise borders, and neither should science.
Q: Your career has been marked by many awards and recognitions. How do you view those achievements?
Awards are encouraging, but they are not the ultimate goal. For me, the greatest reward has been seeing how research can open doors for patients, and how teaching can open doors for students. I am grateful for the recognition, but I see it as motivation to keep working rather than a final destination.
Q: What advice would you give to young researchers starting out?
Be persistent and patient. Research rarely moves in a straight line. There will be failures— experimental or professional setbacks— but those are part of the process. I would also say, find mentors and collaborators. Science is not something you can do alone.
Q: Looking back, what are you most proud of?
I am proud of the balance I’ve found between research and education. It has been meaningful to contribute to our understanding of cancer, but equally meaningful to help shape the careers of students who will take the field forward.
Read more:
An Interview with Chun Ju Chang: A Life Devoted to Cancer Research and Education
