Emerging Leaders Council Member Spotlight: Nicole Fleege

The following is reprinted from the December 2 issue of the UI Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center’s Holden Highlights newsletter. See other features from this series.

The Holden Emerging Leaders Council (ELC) is a distinguished group of rising experts—researchers, physicians, and scientists—committed to advancing cancer care and research. The ELC fosters collaboration among its members, enabling them to share insights, pioneer new research directions, and accelerate the development of innovative cancer treatments. Today, we are excited to spotlight member Nicole Fleege, MD, and her work and involvement with the ELC.

Can you describe your current research focus and how you envision it contributing to cancer research or treatment?

Fleege: I focus on supportive oncology research. To be more specific, I have previously studied ways to improve joint and muscle pain associated with aromatase inhibitors. Currently, I am researching the rate of caregiver burden and how to reduce that burden for caregivers of patients with metastatic breast cancer. I believe that it’s not only important to study ways to treat cancer but also how to help patients and their caregivers live better despite cancer.

Where did you receive your academic and research training, and how have those experiences shaped your approach to your work today?

Fleege: I completed my medical training and residency at the University of Iowa and my Hematology/Oncology fellowship at the University of Michigan. The University of Iowa fostered my love of patient care and, more specifically, taking care of patients with breast cancer (thanks, Dr. [Sneha] Phadke!). My fellowship at the University of Michigan introduced me to a mentor who sparked my interest in supportive care research. 

What types of collaborations are you seeking, and how do you think interdisciplinary partnerships can enhance your research?

Fleege: In my opinion, exceptional cancer care requires strong interdisciplinary partnerships. My research has already benefited from collaboration with the College of Public Health, the College of Nursing, and the VA. Through collaboration, we can delve deeper into research questions and hopefully discover answers that directly benefit patients.

Finally, what inspired you to join the Emerging Leaders Council, and how do you see this role helping you grow personally and professionally in your field?

Fleege: I was inspired to join ELC by a conversation with a friend and mentor, Dr. Aaron Seaman. He may not know this, but when we first met, I had recently started my faculty position at Holden, and I was still trying to get my research program started. Honestly, it felt overwhelming. Aaron was not only kind and thoughtful in giving me guidance, but he also mentioned that I may enjoy meeting other members of the ELC. At that first meet and greet, I had many conversations with other junior faculty trying to start their own research programs, secure external funding, lament a rejected paper, etc. It felt like I had finally “found my people.” Personally, ELC is now a group I can turn to when I have successes or failures or need to ask for advice. Professionally, it gives me an arena to collaborate with other programs and advocate for junior faculty. It also allows us to work closely with Holden’s leadership to ensure our voices are heard. I am very grateful to be part of this team.