Kate Hetherington

Dr. Kate Hetherington is a Post-Doctoral Research Fellow in the Behavioural Sciences Unit (BSU) within the School of Clinical Medicine at UNSW Sydney. Since June 2019, she has served as Ethics and Genetics Team Leader in the BSU, co-leading initiatives focused on the psychosocial impact of cancer on children and their families. Her research emphasizes developing interventions to mitigate negative psychosocial effects of childhood cancer, with a focus on precision medicine, family support, and ethical considerations in healthcare delivery.

Education and Affiliations: Her academic and professional background aligns with clinical psychology and behavioral sciences, though specific educational details are not explicitly provided. She is affiliated with the BSU and collaborates with interdisciplinary teams across UNSW's medical and research departments.

Research Interests: Dr. Hetherington’s work spans psycho-oncology, personalized medicine, and bereavement support. She investigates how genetic testing, precision therapies, and psychosocial interventions impact families affected by childhood cancer. Her studies often explore parental perspectives, healthcare provider roles, and systemic barriers to accessing advanced treatments.

Publications & Grants: She has authored over 46 journal articles, book chapters, and reports, focusing on topics like precision medicine trials, patient-reported outcomes, and family communication in oncology. Her work highlights the intersection of clinical care and psychosocial support, with a commitment to translating research into actionable practices.

Labs & Teams: As part of the BSU, she contributes to collaborative projects within UNSW’s broader medical research ecosystem, leveraging interdisciplinary networks to address complex challenges in pediatric oncology and healthcare equity.