Q&A with our new Editor-in-Chief

Our new Editor-in-Chief, Prof. Marc Tischkowitz, answers 5 questions on his research background, advice to researchers, and plans for BJC Reports.

What is your research background?
I am a clinical academic with a research interest in hereditary cancer predisposition. After medical school, I trained in general medicine and medical oncology. I was always interested in cancer aetiology and prevention, and undertook a PhD in the role of Fanconi Anemia genes in haematological malignancies which then led to me completing my specialisation in clinical genetics so I could work as a cancer geneticist.

What is your favourite thing about research?
On a personal front, my work is very translational and I get great satisfaction from using scientific advances to improve the care pathways for patients that I see in my clinic. I love being at the edge of the known, and being challenged by the unknown. I increasingly enjoy developing a perspective of where we have been and where we might be heading (one benefit of getting older!).

What is the best advice you can give to early career researchers?
Be passionate and enjoy the work. A career in research is not an easy path and the  setbacks tend to outweigh the successes, so when something goes well make the most of it!

What are you most looking forward to in your role as Editor-in-Chief?
With BJC Reports we have a blank canvas and I am looking forward to developing this into a dynamic thriving publication that will serve the cancer research community. We can try out new ideas and challenge existing dogmas. We can move quickly into emerging areas of cancer research and not be afraid to tackle controversies.

What are you excited to commission and why should authors submit to our journal?
I’m interested in articles that challenge existing dogma, bring new perspectives or put forward exciting new observations. We have kept the remit deliberately broad and papers from all disciplines and cancer sites are welcome. In return, I promise a fast and efficient review process and short time to publication.