I was trained to engineer systems—but I chose cancer research to understand what happens when those systems fail. Hi! 👋 I’m Rishika Basak, a Cancer Biology researcher currently based in London, United Kingdom, working at Barts Cancer Institute (QMUL) after completing my Master’s in Cancer Research & Precision Oncology at the University of Glasgow, Scotland. My journey into science didn’t begin in a cancer lab. It began with engineering. I completed my B.Tech in Bioengineering, where I learned to think in terms of systems, optimization, design, and problem-solving. During this phase, I worked on projects involving biosensors, AI-based diagnostics, biomechanics, and medical devices. Engineering taught me how to solve problems—but over time, I found myself asking a deeper question: what are we actually solving these problems for? That question changed the direction of my career. Cancer stood out to me because it exists at the intersection of biology, medicine, data, and human impact. I became deeply fascinated by how tiny molecular decisions inside a cell can determine therapy response, resistance, or relapse. This curiosity pushed me to intentionally rebuild my profile from the ground up. I pursued two international Master’s degrees in Cancer Biology and Precision Oncology across France and the UK, trained extensively in wet-lab cancer biology, and worked across multiple disease contexts including leukemia, breast cancer, glioblastoma, and ovarian cancer. Along the way, I learned how to integrate my engineering mindset with metabolism, drug response, biosensors, and AI-driven diagnostics. My scientific journey has been shaped by global exposure and interdisciplinary learning—from research training at Stanford University, to iGEM leadership and engineering committee roles, to hands-on research at institutes like Institut Pasteur and Tata Memorial Centre. Equally important to me has been giving back. I’ve been actively involved in mentoring students from underrepresented backgrounds, volunteering with STEM initiatives, and supporting students who aspire to study or work in research but feel unsure, overwhelmed, or behind. I strongly believe that there is no “wrong” background in science—only unused potential. Today, my work focuses on ovarian cancer immunotherapy and tumor microenvironment biology, while I continue exploring how interdisciplinary science can translate into better patient outcomes. Beyond academics, I’m an explorer at heart. I enjoy reading, writing, photography, yoga, and long conversations about science, life, and purpose. I believe real growth happens when curiosity meets courage. I mentor because I’ve lived the confusion—switching fields, starting over, applying internationally, and feeling like I was behind my peers. If you’re navigating a transition, questioning your path, or simply need honest guidance and clarity, let’s talk. I listen. 📩 Reach out to me via Topmate or email me at rishika.basak2001@gmail.com