Dr. Natashya Falcone on Biomaterials, Cancer Immunotherapy, and Scientific Purpose
Take a break, we're on Smoko. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Natashya Falcone, a cutting-edge researcher in biomaterials and drug delivery, whose work is shaping the future of cancer immunotherapy. Natashya brings a passion for science that began in childhood and has grown into a career defined by innovation, impact, and a relentless pursuit of solutions to real-world problems.
“Creating solutions for real-world problems like cancer drives me every day.” – Dr. Natashya Falcone
With academic roots in biological chemistry and molecular biology, Natashya’s research explores how engineered materials can mimic tissue environments and interact with the immune system to fight disease. A cornerstone of her work is developing three-dimensional in vitro models—tailored to replicate specific organs and cancer types. These models allow researchers to better understand biological mechanisms and test potential therapies in highly realistic conditions.
We delve into Natashya’s groundbreaking efforts in the emerging field of immuno materials—biomaterials designed to activate and guide the immune response. This approach holds tremendous promise in amplifying the effects of cancer vaccines and reshaping the landscape of treatment and drug development.
Natashya’s work is not just innovative—it’s hopeful. Her commitment to using science for good, combined with her technical brilliance, offers an inspiring look into the future of medicine. Whether you’re a science enthusiast or curious about the next frontier in cancer research, this episode is full of insight and inspiration.