Dr. Chun Ju Chang is a respected cancer researcher and educator with a career shaped by hard work, scientific curiosity, and international experience.
Raised in Taiwan, she discovered an early interest in how science can improve human health. This interest grew into a lifelong commitment that has taken her from top research labs in the United States to her leadership role today.
After earning her PhD from the University of California, Los Angeles, she continued her training at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. These years helped her build a strong foundation in cancer biology. They also brought recognition through several awards for research excellence, productivity, and impact. Her achievements signalled she was becoming a leader in the field.
Her career advanced further when she joined Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center in New York as an Associate Professor. She focused on uncovering the mechanisms behind cancer development and worked closely with young researchers. Later, she returned to Taiwan to serve as a Professor at China Medical University. There, she continues her research while helping train the next generation of scientists.
Today, Chun Ju Chang is recognised for her strong publication record, invited lectures, and invited editorialship and review on scientific studies. Her career reflects steady progress built on discipline, collaboration, and a commitment to improving science and education.
Interview with Chun Ju Chang
A Career Shaped by Science and Service
What first sparked your interest in science while growing up in Taiwan?
I was always curious about how things worked, especially in nature and biology. Even as a child, I was drawn to questions about health and disease. That curiosity stayed with me, and over time it became clear that scientific research was the path I wanted to follow.
How did your experience studying at UCLA influence your career direction?
UCLA opened my world. It was the first time I trained in an environment with such depth of scientific resources. I learned how to think critically and approach problems from many angles. I also received awards that encouraged me to keep pushing myself. Those years confirmed that I wanted a long-term career in cancer research.
Your postdoctoral training took you to MD Anderson Cancer Center. What stands out most from that period?
MD Anderson was intense, challenging, and inspiring. It pushed my skills to a new level. I produced work that earned several awards, including recognition for research excellence. More importantly, it helped me understand the broader impact of cancer biology research and how discoveries can shape future treatments.
You later became an Associate Professor at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center. What did you focus on during your time there?
I focused on the biology behind cancer development and progression. I also spent time mentoring trainees. I realised how much influence a mentor can have. That experience shaped my approach to teaching and leadership.
After working in the United States for many years, you chose to return to Taiwan as a Professor at China Medical University. What motivated that decision?
It felt meaningful to return home and contribute to the scientific community that first supported me. I wanted to build a strong research environment for students and young scientists in Taiwan. Education is very important to me. I believe the way we teach and guide others can change the entire direction of science.
You’ve said that invited talks and publication records played a key role in establishing your reputation. How do these experiences shape your work today?
They remind me that scientific work does not stand alone. Publishing helps share knowledge with the wider field, while giving talks allows direct engagement with other researchers. Review work for study sections and journals has also taught me to evaluate research with both rigor and fairness.
You are part of Women in Cancer Research within the American Association of Cancer Research. Why is this work important to you?
Representation matters. Many talented women in science face barriers, and I want to help make the path clearer. Supporting young women researchers and advocating for equal opportunities is something I take seriously. Strong science needs diverse voices.
What drives you as a teacher, especially when mentoring young scientists?
I value the scientific guidance my mentors gave me. Over time, I realised that a lecturer’s commitment and teaching style can change how students learn and how confident they feel. My goal is to give students the same support I received and help them build careers of their own.
What continues to motivate your work in cancer research today?
The need is still enormous. Cancer affects families everywhere. Each discovery, even a small one, has the potential to improve understanding or inform a future therapy. That sense of purpose keeps me focused and engaged.
Read more:
The Making of a Scientific Leader: An Interview with Dr. Chun Ju Chang
