Page 3 - Labatt Brain Tumour Research Centre Annual Report 2022 to 2023

PROFILE
Andrew Bondoc is the new manager of the Brain Tumour Biobank at the BTRC. This biological sample repository provides critical specimens that help our group of 11 Principle Investigators uncover targetable genetic alterations in brain tumours. This helps us develop new personalized therapies to ensure better treatment outcomes and quality of life for children affected by cancer.
Andrew started working at the BTRC seven years ago as a research technologist in the Rutka and McGlade labs. Over these years, he was privileged to work with and learn from some of the world’s top neurosurgeons, oncologists, and pathologists.
Before joining the BTRC, Andrew obtained a Master of Science from Western University in 2014. His dissertation used various molecular
imaging modalities combined with stem cells to treat Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
One of Andrew’s long-term goals is to establish a stronger connection between the oncology biobanks across Toronto.
Ultimately, this would allow for efficient communication, sharing of samples, and expedited discoveries in the field. He hopes to achieve
this through enhanced collaboration and leveraging the resources of the Michael and Amira Dan Brain Tumour
Network at the University of Toronto.
Profile of Andrew Bondoc
Questions for Andrew Bondoc
You have been part of the BTRC for many years and recently transitioned into a new role. Describe what you are doing now.
I work with the families of young patients diagnosed with brain tumours. I engage the families to see if they can help us better understand these diseases through donations of tissue, blood, and CSF samples to our research program. My role is equal parts science, management, and interpersonal relations, which I find stimulating.
Tell us a bit about your education and background that prepared you for this new role.
I completed my MSc at Western University, where I developed my passion for research and the scientific method and gained many skills I use currently. Soon after, I joined SickKids to manage the Rutka and McGlade labs. Even though paediatric neuro-oncology was entirely new to me, my colleagues openly shared their vast knowledge and expertise, inspiring me to develop a great passion for the work.
What is the most challenging aspect of your new role as the
Brain Tumour Biobank manager?
The most significant difference has been the ‘people’ aspect. Patients, families, doctors, nurses, scientists, technicians, and coordinators are just some of the different individuals I interact with daily. Relationships are essential in this line of work, and engaging stakeholders positively is critical to success. Ideas, opinions, and expectations may clash and finding a way to balance them all can be challenging yet rewarding.
You have taken an active role in the SickKids Research community, tell us more about this?
I’ve participated in various committees throughout the years; I believe you gain something special from partaking in volunteer groups.
I recently completed a 3-year tenure as Chair of the Association of Technology Professionals, a volunteer group representing research staff at SickKids. It’s gratifying to give back to your professional community and support your colleagues in their career paths.
What do you do for fun in your spare time?
I’m an avid runner and cyclist. My dream is to run all six World Majors, and my current goal is to qualify for the Boston Marathon. I enjoy honing my cooking and sourdough bread baking skills when I’m not running. Lastly, my fiancée and I recently bought our first home. It’s
a bit of a ‘fixer-upper,’ so it’s kept us busy over the past few months!
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