Could you introduce yourself?
I never thought I would become a PhD student. My name is Robin and I'm from the western part of the Netherlands. I completed my Bachelor's in Molecular Science and Chemistry in Leiden. I also started a Master's programme there, but I lacked the motivation to continue. Instead of pursuing further studies, I went to Peru for almost a year. Upon returning to the Netherlands, I struggled to find a suitable position in chemistry. I eventually ended up doing unskilled warehouse work. Six years after completing my Bachelor's, I decided it was time for a change and began studying for a Master's in Molecular Chemistry in Nijmegen.
Why did you choose to study/work in this field? What makes this field so interesting?
In secondary school, I enjoyed conducting experiments at home. I particularly liked making substances or mixtures that burned well. The choice to study chemistry was therefore a logical one. Chemistry appeals to me because chemical synthesis enables so many other things in society. By specialising in chemistry, I wanted to make myself useful and even indispensable. I always found organic synthesis to be the most enjoyable aspect of chemistry.
What are you currently researching?
My research focuses on developing new substances for the treatment of pancreatic cancer. This form of cancer is currently incurable in most cases. The tumours are surrounded by a shell of connective tissue that promotes tumour growth. We are trying to develop drugs that do not bind to the cancer cells themselves – as cancer cells can easily adapt and become resistant – but to the connective tissue cells that support the tumour. These drugs can accumulate in the tissue surrounding the tumour and subsequently be activated by the fibroblast activation protein (FAP), an enzyme specifically found around the tumour. The activation leads to the release of cytotoxic molecules which – we hope – can selectively attack the cancer-supporting connective tissue cells and the cancer cells.
What advice do you have for students who are making their study choices?
Don't be afraid of making the wrong choice. If you don't like it, enrol in a different programme for the next semester or year. In the meantime, enjoy the extra time as a student!