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Alejandra Calvo-Schimmel, PhD, MSN, MBA,BSN, RN
Senior Associate Scientist
Clinical and Population Sciences
What Inspires Me
Watching my dad navigate his cancer journey courageously inspired me to pursue a career as a cancer researcher. Becoming part of the American Cancer Society has been a full circle experience for me after an extensive career as an oncology nurse, educator, and researcher. My passion for cancer research is fueled by my love for people and the mission to make a positive difference by assisting the best researchers as they develop breakthrough ideas to end cancer as we know it. Research is the beginning of what's possible!
At ACS since 2024
Alejandra (Sandra) Calvo-Schimmel, PhD, MSN, MBA, BSN, RN, works at the American Cancer Society (ACS) as a senior associate scientist for the Extramural Discovery Science Clinical and Population Sciences Program. In this role, she is responsible for organizing the Peer Review process for all incoming grant applications associated with cancer prevention, screening and early detection, access to care, treatment, palliative care, survivorship, and services research. Working closely with the Scientific Director, she also builds and manages long-lasting relationships with scientific volunteers, Community Research Partners, and grantees about ongoing active research and future research opportunities.
Research focus and accomplishments
My research interests as a nurse scientist have mainly focused on supportive care in patients with advanced cancer as well as the use of genomics in cancer symptom science. Specifically, I am interested in the demographic, clinical, and molecular mechanisms of psychosocial symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbance. Understanding these symptoms and associated supportive care needs in patients undergoing active treatment and beyond may help scientists and healthcare providers develop more effective interventions to improve symptom management and quality of life.
I have published 18 peer-reviewed manuscripts so far and I was the recipient of the National Institute of Nursing Research Postdoctoral Training Grant for two consecutive years.
Before coming to ACS, I was the Nurse Scientist for Eisenhower Health, responsible for developing and managing a program of nursing research and evidence-based practice.
Publications
For a full list of Dr. Calvo-Schimmel's publications, visit her Google Scholar page.
Contact
- alejandra.schimmel@cancer.org
- 828-375-3098
Work before ACS
- Eisenhower Health, Nurse Scientist
- Aspen University, Adjunct Faculty
- University of California San Francisco, Postdoctoral Fellow
Professional organizations
- Sigma Theta Tau, Member
- American Academy of Nursing, Member
- Oncology Nursing Society, Member
Education
- PhD: Nursing Science, Medical University of South Carolina, 2017-2021
- MSN: Leadership & Management, Walden University, 2015-2017
- MBA: Accounting, Webster University Online, 2008-2012
- BSN: Medical University of South Carolina, 2006-2007
- ADN: University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain, 1992-1995
Personal life
I am currently settled in Florida, but I visit my native Spain very often. I live with my husband and my youngest son. My daughter is in college and my oldest son is married and the father of my two beautiful grandkids. I am passionate about traveling, fishing, and gastronomy in general. I enjoy supporting cancer patients in any way I can. I take part in various cancer organizations’ walks throughout the year.
