Devon started her PhD studies in CGL with Dr Anita Dunbier in 2020. After trying our a few different options, Devon discovered breast cancer research and her heart was set.
An interview with Devon
What is your work here? What are you hoping to discover? Why will it be important?
The aim of my work is to explore new potential therapeutic approaches for metastatic breast cancer (mBC). I am hoping to discover a potential way to harness the immune system to aid in mBC clearance. I will be investigating how immune checkpoint inhibitors could be a potential new therapy option that works for mBC patients. mBC is still incurable by way of current techniques, including chemotherapies, surgery, radiotherapy and other alternative methods. My work could help close the gap for successful treatment options.
What attracted you to this area of research? What excites you about it?
Ever since before university I knew I wanted to be in a position where I could contribute to improving people's health. I initially set out to do medicine, and didn't really know what world of health research was. I quickly realised it was somewhere I felt I could excel, be creative, and would always be interested in since it's so rapidly changing. After stumbling around many different areas of science, a studentship in Christchurch is where I discovered breast cancer research, my heart was set. Breast cancer effects a huge amount of people, many people have been affected indirectly as well. To be in an area of science where I could potentially benefit such a large number of people drives me to do what I do.
What's it like working in a Lab? How did you come to be working here in this Lab?
Working in a lab is extremely wholesome and fulfilling. After only having been in cancer genetics lab for a very short time I already felt completely welcomed and supported.
You can go to work every day and know that what you're doing is in some way or another contributing to advances in your area of research.
I ended up working here through a very strong determination to be doing breast cancer research. I came from plant symbiosis research, so I knew it would be quite the switch, however, my mind was made up and I was fortunate enough that my lab was happy to have me come on board.
What direction do you want your career to grow in?
I want to advance my knowledge and continue researching. In addition, I would love to eventually be in a position of teaching (lecturing, running labs etc!). Teaching, while still making strides with research is the goal!
What are the most important things you've had to learn to do well at your work?
Have an open mind and don't go into an experiment expecting to see something.
Perseverance and a positive out-look are the two most powerful tools you can carry.
What advice would you give to someone in school who aspires to research?
Always ask for help if you need it, and it's okay to struggle. At the end of the day if you can walk away from something and say “I did absolutely everything I can”, that's an achievement in itself.
Also appreciate the small wins, sometimes it's a bunch of those that lead to the good stuff!
Growing up:
Where did you grow up? What things interested you about the world as a child?
I grew up in Christchurch. I was always a really curious child, I just wanted to know why everything was. I was also a super social kid, I loved (and still love) anything team work, meeting new people, and forming connections.
What subjects did you enjoy most at school? The least?
Health was my favourite subject. My teacher taught me ways of looking at our own and others wellbeing in ways I still carry with me to this day. Biology and chemistry were also two of my favourites, I found them challenging but it was such a win once it clicked!
My English teacher told me they didn't think I'd pass the NCEA exams. I got excellence. My ideas used to get shut down a lot too.
I didn't like English but it taught me that sometimes you just have to back yourself and that I could use my stubbornness in my favour.
Where did you do your undergraduate study?
Otago Uni
Other interests
What do you enjoy outside your work here?
Fitness/health is a massive focus of mine. It's a great counter balance for two of my other favourite things, coffee and baking.
