KINGSTON, Jamaica – Innovatory prostate cancer research by a Jamaican scientist specifically focused on black men will take centre stage at the University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona Research Day on Thursday.

Featured is Dr Simone Badal, the scientist responsible for developing the first-ever Caribbean prostate cancer cell line (ACRJ-PC28). Her research, which aims to design cancer treatments for more diverse populations, is described as not just a milestone for Jamaica but for global cancer research.

With over US$1 million in research funding secured from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Pfizer, and the Chan-Zuckerberg Initiative, Badal’s work is already shaping the future of personalised medicine and positioning Jamaica as a leader in equitable healthcare solutions, the UWI said.

Expressing her excitement about the potential impact of this progress on cancer patients, Badal said, “The future for our Jamaicans and Caribbean nationals with cancer is bright as we continue this very needed research.”

Beyond her laboratory, Badal is an advocate for Caribbean-led scientific progress, mentoring the next generation of cancer researchers and leading Anticancer Research Jamaica (ACRJ), an initiative that provides opportunities for young scientists to engage in cutting-edge medical research.

The UWI said: “With cancer continuing to be one of the leading causes of death in Jamaica and the wider Caribbean, her work represents far more than scientific achievement — it is a beacon of hope and progress. Her contributions to oncology, alongside the university’s broader efforts in research and innovation, reinforce UWI Mona’s position as the Caribbean’s leading institution for transformative discovery.”

Attendees at Thursday’s Research Day will have the opportunity to engage with interactive exhibits, live research demonstrations and panel discussions that tackle some of the biggest challenges facing the Caribbean and the world. Research Day 2025 is open to all