As we mark World Breast Cancer Research Day on August 18th, we honour the researchers, scientists, and geneticists around the world for their contributions in the advancement of care and research for breast cancer. Here, we focus on some of the people who have made significant differences in improving care.
Dr. Juliet Daniel
Barbados-born and Canadian-raised Dr. Juliet Daniel is a scientist who has also experienced breast cancer. She focuses her research on triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), a subtype that affects Black and Hispanic individuals at higher rates. Dr. Daniel’s research team is working to identify possible genetic mutations that may help explain the increased risk among these communities. These discoveries could lead to better screening methods and new treatments.
In addition to her research, Dr. Daniel is also a champion of diversity and representation in the sciences. She is a Steering Committee Member of the Canadian Black Scientists Network to connect, support and help advance the careers of Black Canadians in STEMM fields. She also works closely with The Olive Branch of Hope to support others facing a breast cancer diagnosis.
Dr. Susan Love
When it comes to trailblazers in cancer research, Dr. Susan Love is a well-known figure. Internationally recognized for her work in breast cancer research and advocacy, she gave those diagnosed with breast cancer a voice and actively advocated for their involvement in care, at a time when patients were often expected to simply follow doctors’ orders without participating in treatment decisions. Originally trained as a surgeon, she helped launch the National Breast Cancer Coalition to advocate for better research, treatment, and patient involvement.
Her book, “Dr. Susan Love’s Breast Book”, was first published in 1990 and quickly became known as the “bible for women with breast cancer”. It helps people understand their diagnosis and make informed decisions about their care and treatment.
As founder of the Dr. Susan Love Foundation for Breast Cancer Research, Dr. Love and her team focused on areas of breast cancer that had been largely overlooked, such as how cancer might begin in the breast’s milk ducts. After her death in 2023, the Tower Cancer Research Foundation took on the work of the foundation to carry her legacy forward. They continue many of her key programs, including education, advocacy and the newly established Dr. Susan Love Fund for Breast Cancer Research.
Dr. Mary-Claire King
Dr. Mary-Claire King is an American geneticist who is known for discovering the BRCA1 gene, which confirmed that some breast cancers can be inherited. This discovery in 1990 helped explain why some women are at a higher risk of developing breast cancer than others due to family history. Her groundbreaking work also advanced our understanding of inherited cancer risk and led to the development of genetic testing for breast and other cancers.
Dr. King was also among the first to the use DNA sequencing in human rights work, particularly in identifying victims of human rights abuses and reuniting missing persons with their families.
Professor Jane Visvader
Australian researcher
As we mark World Breast Cancer Research Day on August 18th, we honour the researchers, scientists, and geneticists around the world for their contributions in the advancement of care and research for breast cancer. Here, we focus on some of the people who have made significant differences in improving care.
Professor Jane Visvader
Australian researcher Professor Jane Visvaderhas made significant advancements in molecular genetics and breast cancer research. She received the Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences Medal for her outstanding work in this field.
Today, she is the co-leader of WEHI’s breast cancer laboratory, alongside Professor Geoff Lindeman. Her team has studied how cells work within the breast and what changes occur at the molecular level when cancer begins. Their most notable work includes identifying links between breast stem cells and the development of cancer.
As we reflect on World Breast Cancer Research Day, it is essential to recognize the critical contributions of breast cancer researchers whose work supports advances in prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and improving quality of life during and after breast cancer. Their commitment has expanded our understanding of breast cancer and led to innovations that continue to improve patient outcomes. Honouring these researchers is not only a tribute to their scientific and clinical achievements, but also a recognition of the broader impact their work has on public health, health equity, and the lives of people and families affected by the disease.
Receive updates by email 
