Dr Sapna Devi receives 2023 Daniel Rechtman Research Award from The CASS Foundation

Portrait of Dr Sapna Devi, Research Officer in the Mueller Lab, in the University of Melbourne’s Department of Microbiology and Immunology at the Doherty Institute — Dr Sapna Devi, Research Officer in the Mueller Lab, in the University of Melbourne’s Department of Microbiology and Immunology at the Doherty Institute

Dr Sapna Devi, Research Officer in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at the Doherty Institute, has received the 2023 Daniel Rechtman Research Award by The CASS Foundation to support her research on the impact of stress signals on anti-tumour immunity.

Through a competitive selection process, the Foundation is funding three transformative research projects between 2022 and 2024, led by early-to-mid career researchers at the Doherty Institute.

Dr Devi's project aims to unravel the connections between stress signals and immune responses, shedding light on these crucial interaction mechanisms and advancing understanding of neuron functions and neuroimmune pathways.

“In previous research, we discovered that signals produced by nerves in response to stress can stop immune cells from effectively fighting pathogens or tumours,” Dr Devi said.

“Thanks to the Award, I will be able to delve into how stress can impair immune responses to find ways to overcome the negative effects of stress on immunity.

“I am grateful to The CASS Foundation for their support of early-career researchers, it serves as a powerful motivation for me to continue pushing the boundaries of knowledge and make meaningful contributions to my field.”

David Abraham AM, Chair of The CASS Foundation, expressed his excitement that Dr Devi's research could advance knowledge that could improve current cancer therapies and potential therapeutics for other diseases.

Professor Sharon Lewin, Director of the Doherty Institute, said that the Award recognises the significance of Dr Devi’s research in immunology and the generous support of The CASS Foundation.

“The Foundation’s support of early-to-mid career researchers is an investment in the future of scientific discovery. It offers talented individuals, like Sapna, the opportunity to explore innovative ideas and contribute fresh perspectives," Professor Lewin said.