"Together with my colleagues, I discovered some special characteristics of the AXL protein. This protein can predict whether tumors will respond to the treatment. We now know that tumors often comprise a mix of cells with varying levels of AXL. This is why it is best to attack melanomas with a mixture of AXL inhibitors and regular treatment like immunotherapy. Even though I got off to a great start in academia with my research, I decided to take a break from the field. I now work at the OLVG hospital to see if I can – or want to – start working in internal medicine. I would love to combine scientific research with work in the clinic one day. I love seeing my patients, and they help me find research questions that matter the most to them.”