Upcoming Breast Cancer Awareness Month serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing battle against this disease. Behind the scenes, dedicated women in STEM are making significant strides in breast cancer research and treatment. Three remarkable figures leading the charge are Professor Fran Boyle AM, Professor Sarah-Jane Dawson and Professor Prue Francis of Breast Cancer Trials (BCT) – with all devoting their careers to improving outcomes for patients.
Professor Fran Boyle
With over three decades of experience, Professor Fran Boyle AM has made substantial contributions to breast cancer research. A professor at the University of Sydney and a member of the BCT Board, Boyle first became involved with BCT while working on her PhD. She felt impressed by the organisation’s ability to secure funding for breast cancer research in Australia. And, eagerly sought to contribute to their mission.
Her extensive work includes designing and implementing studies for life-saving breast cancer treatments, researching ways to reduce side effects, and improving patient support throughout their journeys. Boyle has also focused on enhancing communication between health professionals and patients, recognising the critical role that dialogue plays in care.
Boyle’s educational path reflects her dedication to science. She studied Science in high school before entering medical school at Queensland University, graduating 40 years ago. Since then, she has balanced her clinical responsibilities with research and teaching. She currently splits her time between the University of Sydney and patient care at Mater Hospital.
In encouraging young women to pursue careers in STEM, Boyle emphasises the need for fresh ideas and diverse perspectives. “There are so many opportunities in science,” she says. “The employment systems are becoming more flexible to accommodate travel, part-time work, and family responsibilities. Women are greatly valued in our research, and we hope to recruit talented young women to our teams.”
Professor Sarah-Jane Dawson
A prominent clinician-scientist, Professor Sarah-Jane Dawson’s work epitomises the fusion of research and patient care. She serves as the BCT Study Chair of the Capture clinical trial and has been involved in various studies focused on cancer biomarker research. Her role at Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and the University of Melbourne allows her to explore new frontiers in translational cancer research.
Dawson splits her time between treating breast cancer patients and managing a research laboratory dedicated to developing non-invasive blood-based biomarkers. These biomarkers have the potential to revolutionise cancer management by enabling early detection, risk stratification, and effective disease monitoring. “My research programme aims to improve patient outcomes through innovative testing methods,” she explains.
Professor Prue Francis
With nearly three decades of experience, Professor Prue Francis has been a leading figure in breast cancer research. After spending four years working in the cancer field in New York, she returned to Australia in 1995 and became involved with Breast Cancer Trials. Her journey with BCT began with the submission of a clinical trial concept. This led to an invitation to present at the organisation’s Annual Scientific Meeting. Since then, Professor Francis has played an integral role in advancing breast cancer research, shaping clinical trials that have the potential to save countless lives.
Her career in Medical Oncology began in 1988, inspired by her early exposure to clinical trials as a junior doctor. While her initial training abroad involved trials for various cancers, those foundational principles remain central to her work today. Much of her research has been patient-focused. This includes the collection of tumour samples for further laboratory studies, demonstrating her commitment to translating research into tangible outcomes for breast cancer patients.
Professor Francis’ passion for science was instilled early on by her mother. An advocate for education who encouraged her daughter to study physics, chemistry, and advanced mathematics in high school. This strong foundation in STEM paved the way for her to pursue a career in Medical Oncology. And, throughout her university years, she gained valuable research experience. This included an eight-week stint in a science lab and a year-long laboratory research project during her medical degree.
As a woman in STEM, Professor Francis is a passionate supporter of the power of females to make a difference in science. She encourages them to explore the possibilities that STEM offers, saying, “STEM opens doors to fascinating careers and global opportunities.”
The impact of women in STEM in breast cancer research
Professors Dawson, Boyle, and Francis all exemplify the vital role women in STEM play in the fight against breast cancer. Their commitment to research and patient care both advances medical knowledge and also inspires the next generation of scientists and oncologists. As they continue to innovate and improve cancer management, their work offers hope and tangible benefits for patients facing this formidable disease.
As we mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, they serve as a reminder to acknowledge and celebrate the trailblazing women whose contributions are helping to transform the landscape of breast cancer research and treatment. Their journeys are powerful reminders of the difference one can make in the fight against cancer. And, highlight the importance of women in STEM in creating a healthier future for all.