Lucas Arruda, Curacell

In this week’s episode of Careers in Discovery we’re talking with Lucas Arruda, CSO at CuraCell, a biotech on a mission to push the boundaries of cancer treatment using TIL (tumour-infiltrating lymphocyte) therapy. Lucas shares how CuraCell is working to expand TIL treatment beyond "hot" tumours like melanoma to tougher "cold" tumours, including prostate cancer—offering hope for patients who often have limited options. Lucas opens up about his path from academia to industry, driven by a lifelong love of science and a desire to make a real difference in people’s lives. He talks about the unique challenges of his role, juggling hands-on lab work, strategic planning, and managing a small team in a high-stakes environment. He also reflects on the key skills he’s learned along the way—adaptability, risk-taking, and staying curious. As CuraCell prepares to start its first clinical trials in 2025 Lucas gives us an inside look, sharing honest insights into making the shift from academic research to the fast-paced demands of industry. Join us this week for a thoughtful, inspiring conversation with a scientist at the cutting edge of cancer therapy.