Professor Sandi Hayes

Director of Research
Sandi Hayes
What inspires me

The impact of research and the power of research excellence. It is only through quality research that we can do better at cancer prevention, early detection and survivorship and can ensure that we do this in a way that reduces cancer health disparities locally, nationally and globally.

Profile information

Areas of expertise

Cancer survivorship epidemiology, exercise oncology, supportive cancer care, cancer-related lymphoedema.

Overview

As Director of Research of the Viertel Cancer Research Centre, Professor Sandi Hayes leads a comprehensive intra- and extramural program of cancer research. Following undergraduate training in exercise science, postgraduate training in exercise oncology and postdoctoral training in cancer survivorship epidemiology, Professor Hayes has led cancer cohort studies and clinical trials focused on understanding and reducing cancer-related morbidity, as well as enhancing quality of life and survival for those diagnosed with cancer. Professor Hayes’s pioneering research in exercise oncology and cancer-related lymphoedema have driven international guidelines, policies and practice. Sandi is passionate about driving research excellence in cancer in Queensland, and improving cancer research and workforce capacity required to underpin advancements in cancer prevention and survivorship.

Education

PhD (Human Movement Studies)

BAppSc (Human Movement Studies), Hons I   

Get to know Professor Sandi Hayes

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

As Director of Research at Cancer Council Queensland, I lead a comprehensive program of research in cancer control, spanning prevention through to survivorship. Embedded within this research program are cohort studies and clinical trials that seek to understand the concerns experienced by people because of cancer, as well as what strategies, services and treatment can be used to prevent, reduce or manage cancer-related concerns.

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

A quest for new knowledge that will make a difference to the lives of those impacted by cancer. Cancer is a common and feared disease. Through research we can and will identify better ways to prevent, treat and survive cancer.

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

Two remarkable scientists – Cancer Epidemiologist, Professor Beth Newman, and Biostatistician and Epidemiologist, Professor Diana Battistutta. These women taught me how to do quality and meaningful research, and to never lose sight of what’s important (in research and life).