Professor Natalie Bradford

Professor Childhood Cancer
Natalie Bradford
What inspires me

The opportunity to make a difference to the lives of children and young people diagnosed with cancer and their families through research.

Profile information

Areas of expertise

Children’s cancer control and outcomes, supportive care, health services research, models of care

Overview

Professor Natalie Bradford has a clinical background as a children’s cancer and palliative care nurse spanning over 20 years. Professor Bradford’s passion for research was driven by witnessing the power of clinical trials to improve outcomes for children diagnosed with cancer. During her career, the survival rates for children have increased dramatically because of this research and led her to questioning how research could be used to improve other outcomes. Professor Bradford’s PhD explored how telehealth could be used in Queensland to improve access to supportive care for families living in regional and rural locations. Her research focusses on enhancing experiences and outcomes for children with cancer and their families, driving advancements in healthcare through novel models of care harnessing technology and improved communication.

Education

PhD (Health Services Research)

MPH (Epidemiology)

BNur, RN

Get to know Professor Natalie Bradford

How does your research contribute to the bigger picture in cancer prevention, treatment, and support?

My research gives a voice to children and young people with cancer, and their families, advocating for their needs.   I lead a program of research that spans exploratory projects to identify needs, through to development, implementation and evaluation of interventions to address unmet needs. My research influence is demonstrated by widespread adoption of research findings into clinical practice guidelines across the world.

What’s your ‘connection to cause’, and what inspires you to keep going, especially through complex challenges?

To this day, I remain inspired by the children and families I have cared for during my nursing career, and the desire to do whatever I can to reduce the suffering caused by cancer. Information and knowledge are powerful tools and I hope to share these through the research we undertake.

Who or what has been the most significant influence in shaping your approach to your work? 

I have been lucky to have had amazing support and mentorship in both my nursing and research career. I try to stay grounded, connected to nature and to always remember how precious and fragile life is.