The Best of the AACR Journals Collection: Author Profiles

Guangmin Li

Title & Affiliation:
Principal Scientific Researcher, Genentech, South San Francisco, California.

Most-cited Article:
Mechanisms of Acquired Resistance to Trastuzumab Emtansine in Breast Cancer Cells

Q: What is your primary area of study/research?
A: Cancer research

Q: What influenced your decision to embark on a research career?
A: My father was a biology professor and encouraged me to learn about science from a young age. I chose to major in biology in college and it’s still what I’m most excited about and interested in doing professionally.

Q; What excites you most about your research area?
A: What excites me most is seeing the molecules discovered at Genentech improve patient’s lives. I was involved in the development for Kadcyla, a treatment for certain patients with HER2+ breast cancer. We often have patients come to visit the lab, and their visits provide us opportunity to personally connect with those who have been helped with our medicine. The patients’ stories motivate me to continue and help me see the true purpose of my career.

Q: What are your hobbies or passions outside of work?
A: I enjoy watching my son play sports. My passions outside of work include international travel with my husband and son and doing volunteer work for school and charity. I love listening to music and going out for a walk.