Bree Foley

Dr. Bree Foley is a Lecturer in the School of Biomedical Sciences at The University of Western Australia, with a dual role as a Pathology and Laboratory Science Contractor/Visitor at UWA College. Her research focuses on cellular immunology, particularly leveraging natural killer (NK) cells to combat pediatric cancers. She completed her PhD at UWA on NK cell anti-leukaemic function and conducted postdoctoral research at the University of Minnesota, contributing to clinical trials for relapsed leukemia patients. Dr. Foley teaches immunology and genetics at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels and is active in educational pedagogy research.

Education:

• Master of Teaching (Secondary), University of Western Australia (2023)
• PhD in Immunology, University of Western Australia (2008)
• BSc (Biomedical Science, Hons), University of Western Australia (2003)

Research Interests: Dr. Foley’s work centers on enhancing NK cell functional capacity using cutting-edge techniques, aiming to develop novel immunotherapies for cancer. Her research integrates immunogenetics, flow cytometry, and translational approaches to improve cancer treatment outcomes. She also explores how external factors like burn injuries impact immune responses in cancer development.

Recent Trends in Research: Her articles highlight the modulation of interferon pathways to boost antitumor immunity, the role of NK cells in leukemia, and the synergy between cytokines and vaccines. These studies underscore her focus on translational immunotherapy and cellular mechanisms in cancer.

Awards:

• C. Sanders Prize (2024)
• Barbara May Scholarship (2017)

Grants & Mentorship: Dr. Foley leads multiple grants totaling over AUD 2 million, including projects on NK cell therapies and armored NK cell development. She mentors students and early-career researchers through roles in the Australian Society for Immunology and Medical Research boards. Her educational initiatives emphasize adaptive teaching strategies tailored to student needs.

Labs & Collaborations: Her research group collaborates with international institutions and is part of interdisciplinary teams at UWA. Key partnerships include work with the Kids Research Institute Australia as an Honorary Research Associate.