At Breakthrough T1D, our mission is to accelerate life-changing breakthroughs to cure, prevent, and treat type 1 diabetes (T1D) and its complications. As T1D doesn’t discriminate, we advocate for equitable healthcare for all whose lives are impacted by the disease, no matter who they are or where they live.
Fostering a community of culture and belonging is a priority. As such, during Black History Month, we recognize our Black friends, family, and colleagues who help advance our mission.
This month, we shine the spotlight on Cassandra Bazile, Ph.D., an accomplished scientist at Breakthrough T1D who champions community, mentorship, and inclusion in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics).
A budding scientist finds her garden
Cassandra’s journey to a career in science began at Morgan State University (MSU), a historically Black institution in Baltimore, Maryland. Thanks to the Research Initiative for Scientific Enhancement (RISE) Program, she was introduced to the world of biomedical research from early in her academic career. While completing her studies, she found unforgettable support and mentorship in her professors at MSU, who offered Cassandra guidance on the many career possibilities within STEM.
“Their guidance played a pivotal role in shaping my academic and professional journey, encouraging me to pursue research and further my education. Their support not only helped me navigate my own path but also inspired my dedication to mentoring and uplifting others from underrepresented backgrounds in STEM,” she explained.
On to bigger and better pastures
After completing her undergraduate degree and working as a research technician at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cassandra pursued her Ph.D. in Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. There, she studied B cells—immune cells that make antibodies and contribute to the development of several autoimmune diseases, including Lupus and T1D.
Cassandra’s increasing passion for understanding autoimmune disease combined with first-hand experience having an older cousin with T1D led her to pursue her current position at Breakthrough T1D. Now, she applies her unique scientific skillset to accelerate therapies that prevent, halt, or reverse T1D. She also finds fulfillment in engaging with the T1D community and deepening her appreciation of what it’s like to live with the disease.
“One of the most rewarding aspects of my role…is interacting with the community and sharing updates on exciting research […]. These conversations…not only allow me to inform and inspire others but also offer critical insights into the unmet needs of those living with T1D,” Cassandra explained.
The garden is growing, but there are still some weeds
As a Black woman in a largely white, male-dominated field, Cassandra’s secret to success is finding a strong community and assembling a mentorship network. Since the moment Cassandra knew she wanted to be a scientist, she’s learned a lot—the ability to advocate for herself is paramount, as is helping others navigate their own paths. Building these supportive connections within her community and becoming a mentor herself has been instrumental in driving her career forward.
While the scientific community has made progress in increasing representation of members of the BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) community, more work needs to be done. Culminating from her experiences, Cassandra suggests greater access to opportunities and mentorship in addition to fostering inclusive work environments.
“Addressing bias, building support networks, and advocating for systemic change within institutions can create a more welcoming space and cultivate an environment that encourages growth and innovation.”
– Cassandra Bazile, Ph.D.
At Breakthrough T1D, thanks to excellent scientists like Cassandra, every day we drive toward cures for T1D and make life with the disease better for the people who face it. This can only be achieved with a true diversity of thought, which happens when the best and brightest minds, from all backgrounds, come together.
