Giuseppe Curigliano, President Elect of ESMO and Member of the Editorial Board at OncoDaily, shared a post on LinkedIn:
“After nearly 30 years of experience, almost 900 peer-reviewed publications, and an H-index of 100 on Scopus, I want to share something with young oncologists – something that goes beyond the accolades and recognition.
The path to a successful career is paved with sacrifices, compromises, and, most importantly, failures. You must learn to face setbacks and, above all, find the strength to rise again each time.
My journey began at Columbia University in New York, in a molecular epidemiology lab. Back then, there were no ‘clinician-scientists’ as we know them today. You entered a lab, were assigned a project, and set clear objectives. I still vividly remember the energy of 90s New York – a city that fueled my ambition and drive.
I started my research studying bladder cancer and exploring DNA adducts from tobacco exposure in the mechanisms of carcinogenesis. I’ll never forget my first paper – first author, fast-track publication – a moment of triumph that felt like the first milestone in a long race.
For those starting their careers: embrace the process, the challenges, and the inevitable setbacks. They are part of the journey. Keep pushing forward, and don’t let the tough times define you.
You never know where your passion and persistence might take you.”
