Science and Collaboration: Inside the Rivkin Center’s 15th Biennial Ovarian Cancer Research Symposium

“Scientists came to share, collaborate, and change the future of ovarian cancer research.”

World-class researchers and rising stars in ovarian cancer research came together this past weekend for the Rivkin Center’s 15th Biennial Ovarian Cancer Research Symposium in the Seattle area. The goal: advance knowledge and shape the future of treatment and prevention – and get closer to a cure. The symposium remains highly valued for being the first event of its kind to bring together ovarian cancer researchers almost 30 years ago.

While larger cancer conferences bring together thousands of attendees and span multiple cancer types, the Rivkin Center’s Symposium offers a more intimate, focused experience. With 250+ attendees, including 47 international participants from 12 countries, this event creates an environment ideal for collaboration and meaningful connections. “It’s small, but that’s what makes it powerful,” said Dr. Jackie Lang, the Rivkin Center’s Scientific Programs Director. “Everyone knows each other, or at least recognizes names from papers, and the relevance of the discussions to their own work is much higher.” This close-knit setting fosters a level of engagement and collaboration that stands out.

Collaboration: The Seed of Breakthroughs

A hallmark of the Symposium is its role in nurturing collaborations among scientists. The poster sessions, in particular, became hotbeds of spontaneous idea generation and partnership formation. “People weren’t just presenting their findings; they were talking about potential collaborations,” said Dr. Lang. “I overheard multiple conversations where researchers were offering to share samples and data. That kind of cross-pollination is invaluable.” These kinds of exchanges, fostered in an atmosphere of mutual respect and shared goals, are what push science forward in ways that individual efforts alone cannot achieve. Molly O’Connor, CEO of the Rivkin Center, highlighted the strong sense of camaraderie among attendees. “People were genuinely excited to share their work and support each other’s efforts,” she noted. In science, collaboration is the key to breakthroughs. By working together, scientists build on each other’s knowledge and successes, allowing progress that would be impossible in isolation. Collaboration accelerates discoveries and sows the seeds for breakthroughs that can lead to better treatments and outcomes.

The Impact of Rivkin Center’s Support

Beyond the collaborations that emerged, several attendees reflected on how the Rivkin Center had directly influenced their careers. Dr. Fiona Simpkins, a prominent University of Pennsylvania researcher who gave an invited talk, began her presentation by acknowledging that her very first grant, 14 years ago, came from the Rivkin Center. This small but critical piece of funding helped launch her career and led to significant advancements in her work. “It’s not just the financial support,” she remarked. “It’s the reputation that comes with a Rivkin Center grant. It opened doors for me.”

One of the unique aspects of the Rivkin Center’s Symposium is the way it elevates emerging scientists, giving them space to present their work alongside some of the most respected names in ovarian cancer research. “It’s not just about the rock stars,” explained Melissa Rivkin, Board Chair and eldest daughter of Marsha Rivkin, in whose memory the Rivkin Center was established “Yes, we invite the leaders in the field, but we also create space for the up-and-comers. This is their chance to get noticed, to share their work, and to build their careers.”

The Power of Patient Voices

Another critical component of the Symposium is the inclusion of patient voices. Early in the event, a patient advocacy panel set the tone, reminding researchers of the very real human lives impacted by their work. The panel featured survivors and advocates who spoke candidly about the challenges of living with ovarian cancer and the importance of patient-informed research. “They’re not just statistics; they’re people. Their stories inspire us and bring a real sense of urgency to the scientific discussions,” O’Connor noted.

Cutting-Edge Content

The presentations were praised for their depth and relevance. From early detection and prevention strategies to the latest in therapeutic treatments, the content offered attendees a comprehensive look at the state of ovarian cancer research. The keynote speakers, including Dr. Kathleen Moore of the University of Oklahoma, provided an overview of the progress being made and the challenges ahead, particularly in the realm of personalized medicine. “Her talk was a real highlight,” said Dr. Lang. “She had an incredible way of framing the future of ovarian cancer treatment, and it left everyone wanting more.”

The Rivkin Center’s Biennial Ovarian Cancer Research Symposium is more than just an academic exercise. It’s a catalyst for collaboration, a breeding ground for new ideas, and a place where the future of ovarian cancer research takes shape. By providing a platform that fosters both high-level scientific exchange and meaningful personal connections, the Rivkin Center continues to lead the charge in the fight against ovarian cancer.

As one attendee put it, “This isn’t just a conference—it’s where careers are made, and where the future of ovarian cancer treatment is forged.” For the Rivkin Center, this is just the beginning. With each Symposium, they push the boundaries of what’s possible, bringing us one step closer to a world without ovarian cancer.