Professor Rachel Allavena
Professor

Rachel Allavena

Email: 
Phone: 
+61 7 54601 826

Background

Professor Rachel Allavena is a specialist veterinary pathologist, multidisciplinary researcher and Deputy Head of School, at the School of Veterinary Science, Gatton. She develops cancer treatments called immunotherapies which wake up the immune system so it fights the cancer. Her unique approach uses pet dogs with natural cancer to conduct the research. This helps the dog and it's family, as well as progressing the development of veterinary treatments and simultaneously advancing human medicine. As Deputy Head of School she aims to support staff and students to make UQ one of the top school's in Australasia, supporting both pets and people. Rachel is a multi-award winning teacher, lecturinging in veterinary pathology, toxicology, animal welfare and laboratory animal science. Her specialist expertise is nationally and internationally recognised in forensics, animal cruelty and toxicology where she acts as an expert witness in criminal and civil legal cases. She is a strong advocate for racing animal welfare, investigating racing animal injury and deaths and conducting research on how to improve animal welfare in sport, society and research. Prof Allavena has an active media profile and has been featured in national and international media including The Conversation, ABC national and regional radio and TV news, commercial and community TV and radio. In 2022-2023 she is a 'Flying Scientist' for Queensland's Office of the Chief Scientist. Rachel really enjoys doing presentations to school students and teachers as well as public outreach events to promote science to the general public. She has presented a TEDx talk on how dogs can help us cure cancer.

Prof Allavena has a PhD in Comparative Medicine from Cornell Univesity in New York, and undertook her pathology specialistation at Ontario Veterinary College. She has worked in drug safety research and development in the pharmaceutical industry in preclinical safety testing and discovery research in the United Kingdom. Her research interests are strongly focused on comparative and translational medicine and animal model validation and development in rodents, dogs and other laboratory animal species. Her major research projects include developing novel cancer immunotherapics and diagnostics for pet dogs naturally suffering from cancer both as a veterinary therapy and comparative model for human cancer. Further, she has extensive research in drivers of koala population decline in SEQLD. She has wide ranging research collaborations specialising in the pathological assessment and study design for animal models in a variety of areas including novel therapeutics, drug safety, toxicology and natural envenomations, biometallic implants, and animal welfare in laboratory animals and domestic species. She is a board certified veterinary anatomic pathologist with the American College of Veterinary Pathologists (ACVP) and a registered specialist veterinary anatomic pathologist with the Veterinary Surgeon's Board of Queensland through the Australian Veterinary Boards Council. She is the lead diagnostic anatomic pathologist in the UQ School of Veterinary Science Veterinary Laboratory Service, and in her professional capacity she oversees cases for Racing Queensland, Queensland Police and RSPCA Queensland, with a special interest in animal welfare and forensic pathology. She has an extensive successful track record of training anatomic pathologists for American College of Veterinary Pathology board certification. She was awarded a Faculty of Science Teaching Excellence Award in 2015 and a UQ Citation for Outstanding Contributions to Student Learning in 2021. She has served as an office holder in the Pathobiology chapter of the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists and the Australian Society of Veterinary Pathologists.

Availability

Professor Rachel Allavena is:
Available for supervision
Media expert

Fields of research

Agricultural, Veterinary and Food Sciences Biomedical and Clinical Sciences Clinical sciences Immunology Oncology and carcinogenesis Veterinary pathology Veterinary sciences

Research interests

  • Novel immunotherapeutic methods for the treatment of cancer in dogs

    We are currently investigating new methods of stimulating the immune system in dogs suffering from a variety of cancers, with the hope of improving survival times and quality of life.

  • ARC Research Hub for Advanced Manufacturing of Medical Devices (2016–2021)

    The project aims to transform Australia's $10.8Bn medical technology sector by developing cost competitive technologies for the rapid production of personalised devices for Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (EVAR). To ensure that the Australian industry remains globally competitive, the Hub seeks to concurrently develop materials, technologies and flexible manufacturing processes. The intended outcomes include more efficient design and manufacturing processes and a new range of EVAR products generating increased market share and higher workforce capability. The resulting impacts are better health outcomes, job creation and providing SMEs with new technologies and skills that can be transferred to the manufacture of products for other sectors. https://researchers.uq.edu.au/research-project/29042

  • Morbidity and mortality in SE Queensland Koala populations

    Prof Joerg Henning and I research the major causes of death, injury and disease which are causing a dramatic decline in the SE QLD koala population using pathologic and epidemiologic approaches. We co-developed the medical record database KoalaBASE https://www.koalabase.com.au/Default.aspx used by the Queensland State government Department of Environment and Science to track koala disease and injury through Queensland, monitoring population health and planning interventions to conserve koalas.

  • The pathology of natural tick and snake envenomations in companion animals

    Tick and snake envenomations are major causes of companion animal death in Australia. Owners are devastated when returning home to find a pet gravely ill or dead from snake bite. Treatments are expensive, mortality is high, and little is known about the pathology caused by these venomous animals. My teams analysis looks at pathology and patterns of snake bites in pets.

Research impacts

Cancer is common and devastating in our pet dogs and causes heartache for their families. As a veterinary pathologist and immunologist my understanding of disease and immunity drives cures for cancer. For many decades, science relied on mice to help us research cancer, but treatments that work fantastic in mice frequently fail in human patients. My research takes a different approach. I use pet dogs with natural cancer and no hope for other treatments to develop new cancer therapies. Dog cancer is similar in appearance, behaviour, genetics and environmental causes to human cancers. I test novel conventional and immunotherapy treatments. Because dog and human cancer is so similar, dogs provide excellent safety and efficacy information on potential new human treatments. My treatments have cured pets, and are now helping human patients. I am proud to receive international philanthropic support from Canine Cancer Alliance https://www.ccralliance.org/ and local support from the Kibble trust and Canine Research Fund.

Dogs and humans share a special bond, and sadly the cancers that dogs and people develop are very similar. My research group looks at several major common and devastating cancers in pet dogs shared with people; brain cancer, lymphoma, melanoma, osteosarcoma and others. We are conducting trials on novel immunotherapies, which aim to 'wake up' the dog's immune system so it realizes the cancer is there and starts to destroy it. Our treatments include injections into the cancer and vaccinations. Our intratumoural injection resulted in 20% of the dogs being cured of their cancer. These dogs were no longer sick, and their cancer melted away. These dogs also had much longer with their families. Two of our patients were told they only had 2-3 months to live but they survived 12 and 17 months. Another dog was given 8 weeks to live but his cancer disappeared and he lived for 3 more years into old age. The data from these dogs has helped start a hospital trial in human patients with advanced cancer. We only use volunteer pet dogs who have naturally developed their cancer and have no hope for other cures. The pets get to stay with their owners throughout their treatment, which we know is safe for them and their families. Because the cancer in these dogs is natural, it interacts with the dog's body and immune system in a very similar way to how a human cancer does damage. For this reason, we are confident about how well our treatments work, and how safe they will be when they are used to treat human patients. By conducting research on pet dogs with natural cancer, we help the dog, its family and the human patients who will benefit from these new therapies. Dogs are man's best friend in so many ways, and they can help us cure cancer too.

We are currently recruiting dogs suffering from osteosarcoma, mast cell tumour (mastocytoma), lymphoma, soft tissue sarcoma, malignant melanoma and adenocarcinoma (mammary and apocrine anal sac). Dogs must have a diagnosis and be referred by their current veterinary surgeon to participate in the trial. Please contact PhD student and veterinarians Dr Matthew Weston on matthew.weston@uq.net.au for cancers except osteosarcoma, or Dr Abhi Dadhich aba.dadhich@uq.edu.au if your dog has osteosarcoma.

Along with Prof Joerg Henning, Prof Allavena also co-leaded KoalaBASE and the collaboration has contributed a large body of work analysing the declines of SEQLD's koala population. They have published papers in Scientific Reports, Preventative Veterinary Medicine, and J Comparative Pathology on koala conservation. Prof Allavena is also actively researches envenomation and toxicity in pets, as well as forensic and animal welfare matters, with a focus on racing animals.

Search Professor Rachel Allavena’s works on UQ eSpace

107 works between 2003 and 2024
All (107) Journal Article (83) Conference Publication (22) Other Outputs (2)

1 - 20 of 107 works

2024

Journal Article

Insights into heat treatments of biodegradable Mg-Y-Nd-Zr alloys in clinical settings: Unveiling roles of β' and β1 nanophases and latent in vivo hydrogen evolution

Dargusch, Matthew, Wang, Yuan, Sha, Chuhan, Yang, Nan, Chen, Xingrui, Venezuela, Jeffrey, Otte, Joseph, Johnston, Sean, Lau, Cora, Allavena, Rachel, Mardon, Karine, McCaroll, Ingrid and Cairney, Julie (2024). Insights into heat treatments of biodegradable Mg-Y-Nd-Zr alloys in clinical settings: Unveiling roles of β' and β1 nanophases and latent in vivo hydrogen evolution. Acta Biomaterialia. doi: 10.1016/j.actbio.2024.10.047

Insights into heat treatments of biodegradable Mg-Y-Nd-Zr alloys in clinical settings: Unveiling roles of β' and β1 nanophases and latent in vivo hydrogen evolution

2024

Journal Article

Correlation between gastrointestinal morphological changes, enteric microbiota, and changes in live weight in dairy calves

Alawneh, John, Olchowy, Timothy, Hassan, Mohammad Mahmudul, Allavena, Rachel, Soust, Martin and Al Jassim, Rafat (2024). Correlation between gastrointestinal morphological changes, enteric microbiota, and changes in live weight in dairy calves. JDS Communications. doi: 10.3168/jdsc.2024-0620

Correlation between gastrointestinal morphological changes, enteric microbiota, and changes in live weight in dairy calves

2024

Conference Publication

Is greyhound pannus increasing? A review of the condition and impact on greyhound adoption

Marchiori, Donna, Chang, Vivi, Brasil Ervedosa, Ticiana, Yang, Zachary and Allavena, Rachel (2024). Is greyhound pannus increasing? A review of the condition and impact on greyhound adoption. Australia and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists Science Week, Gold Coast, QLD Australia, 25-27 July 2024.

Is greyhound pannus increasing? A review of the condition and impact on greyhound adoption

2024

Conference Publication

Severe Rhodococcus equi typhlocolitis in a 11-week-old Australian Stockhorse foal

Thirouin, Marthe, Hodgson, Evie, Wilson, A., Pentzke, Ligia, Jeong, Sharon, Brasil Ervedosa, Ticiana, Allavena, Rachel, Zedler, Steve, Stewart, Allison J. and Rosales, Cristina (2024). Severe Rhodococcus equi typhlocolitis in a 11-week-old Australian Stockhorse foal. Equine Veterinarians of Australia, Bain Fallon Memorial Conference, Hunter Valley, NSW, Australia, 21-25 July 2024.

Severe Rhodococcus equi typhlocolitis in a 11-week-old Australian Stockhorse foal

2024

Journal Article

Spontaneous Lesions of Endangered Geriatric Julia Creek Dunnarts (Sminthopsis douglasi, Archer 1979) with Emphasis in Reproductive Pathology

Gonzalez-Astudillo, Viviana, Schaffer-White, Andrea, Noble, Lawrence, O’Hara, Patricia, Murray, Peter, Barnes, Tamsin S. and Allavena, Rachel (2024). Spontaneous Lesions of Endangered Geriatric Julia Creek Dunnarts (Sminthopsis douglasi, Archer 1979) with Emphasis in Reproductive Pathology. Veterinary Sciences, 11 (4) 142, 142. doi: 10.3390/vetsci11040142

Spontaneous Lesions of Endangered Geriatric Julia Creek Dunnarts (Sminthopsis douglasi, Archer 1979) with Emphasis in Reproductive Pathology

2024

Journal Article

Disseminated Rasamsonia argillacea complex infection presenting as intraventricular brain hemorrhage in a German shepherd dog in Australia

Skinner, Christopher, Allavena, Rachel, Hoffmann, Karon, Kelly-Bosma, Mirrim, Kidd, Sarah and Thomson, Christine (2024). Disseminated Rasamsonia argillacea complex infection presenting as intraventricular brain hemorrhage in a German shepherd dog in Australia. Medical Mycology Case Reports, 44 100641, 100641. doi: 10.1016/j.mmcr.2024.100641

Disseminated Rasamsonia argillacea complex infection presenting as intraventricular brain hemorrhage in a German shepherd dog in Australia

2024

Journal Article

Effect of a lactobacilli-based direct-fed microbial product on gut microbiota and gastrointestinal morphological changes

Alawneh, John I., Ramay, Hena, Olchowy, Timothy, Allavena, Rachel, Soust, Martin and Jassim, Rafat Al (2024). Effect of a lactobacilli-based direct-fed microbial product on gut microbiota and gastrointestinal morphological changes. Animals, 14 (5) 693, 1-18. doi: 10.3390/ani14050693

Effect of a lactobacilli-based direct-fed microbial product on gut microbiota and gastrointestinal morphological changes

2024

Journal Article

Multidecadal High Mortality Disease Events in Australian Domestic Geese Associated with a Novel Alphaherpesvirus, Designated Anatid Alphaherpevirus 2

Kelly-Bosma, Mirrim, Ossedryver, Selina, Bowater, Rachel Olive, Butler, Jeff, Reid, Tristan, Suen, Willy W., Underwood, Darren, Latimore, Shaylie, Izzard, Leonard, Joseph, Ancy, Mileto, Patrick, Stevens, Vittoria, Wang, Jianning, Mackie, Tessa, Mastakov, Alexandr, Doneley, Robert, Allavena, Rachel and Neave, Matthew J. (2024). Multidecadal High Mortality Disease Events in Australian Domestic Geese Associated with a Novel Alphaherpesvirus, Designated Anatid Alphaherpevirus 2. Transboundary and Emerging Diseases, 2024 (1) ARTN 3255966. doi: 10.1155/2024/3255966

Multidecadal High Mortality Disease Events in Australian Domestic Geese Associated with a Novel Alphaherpesvirus, Designated Anatid Alphaherpevirus 2

2024

Journal Article

Changes in heart dimensions in decomposition using porcine and ovine animal models: a method for estimating decomposed human heart weight

Low, Zachary, Garland, Jack, Thompson, Melissa, Ondruschka, Benjamin, Da Broi, Ugo, Day, Christopher, Tse, Rexson and Allavena, Rachel (2024). Changes in heart dimensions in decomposition using porcine and ovine animal models: a method for estimating decomposed human heart weight. Australian Journal of Forensic Sciences, 1-11. doi: 10.1080/00450618.2024.2401344

Changes in heart dimensions in decomposition using porcine and ovine animal models: a method for estimating decomposed human heart weight

2023

Journal Article

A multicentre epidemiologic study of sudden and unexpected death in adult cats and dogs in Australia

Kelly-Bosma, Mirrim, Henning, Joerg, Haworth, Mark, Ploeg, Richard, Woolford, Lucy, Neef, Alison, Das, Shubhagata and Allavena, Rachel (2023). A multicentre epidemiologic study of sudden and unexpected death in adult cats and dogs in Australia. Veterinary Sciences, 10 (9) 582, 1-13. doi: 10.3390/vetsci10090582

A multicentre epidemiologic study of sudden and unexpected death in adult cats and dogs in Australia

2023

Conference Publication

Anthropogenic and environmental factors associated with koala deaths occurring through vehicle collisions and dog attacks in South East Queensland, Australia

Stevenson, Mark, Dissanayake, Ravi, Gonzalez-Astudillo, Viviana, Allavena, Rachel and Henning, Joerg (2023). Anthropogenic and environmental factors associated with koala deaths occurring through vehicle collisions and dog attacks in South East Queensland, Australia. GeoVet 2023 International Conference, Teramo, Italy, 19-22 September 2023.

Anthropogenic and environmental factors associated with koala deaths occurring through vehicle collisions and dog attacks in South East Queensland, Australia

2023

Journal Article

Zinc-based subcuticular absorbable staples: An in vivo and in vitro study

Yang, Nan, Venezuela, Jeffrey, Allavena, Rachel, Lau, Cora and Dargusch, Matthew (2023). Zinc-based subcuticular absorbable staples: An in vivo and in vitro study. Acta Biomaterialia, 167, 593-607. doi: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.06.030

Zinc-based subcuticular absorbable staples: An in vivo and in vitro study

2023

Journal Article

Anthropogenic and environmental factors associated with koala deaths due to dog attacks and vehicle collisions in South-East Queensland, Australia, 2009–2013

Dissanayake, Ravi Bandara, Stevenson, Mark, Astudillo, Viviana Gonzalez, Allavena, Rachel and Henning, Joerg (2023). Anthropogenic and environmental factors associated with koala deaths due to dog attacks and vehicle collisions in South-East Queensland, Australia, 2009–2013. Scientific Reports, 13 (1) 14275, 1-11. doi: 10.1038/s41598-023-40827-w

Anthropogenic and environmental factors associated with koala deaths due to dog attacks and vehicle collisions in South-East Queensland, Australia, 2009–2013

2023

Conference Publication

Bilateral renal adenocarcinoma in a mare

Easson, S., Xu, Geoffrey, Sprohnle-Barrera, Cleide, Clark, Brianna, Allavena, Rachel and Stewart, Allison J. (2023). Bilateral renal adenocarcinoma in a mare. Bain Fallon Memorial Lectures Equine Veterinarians of Australia, Sunshine Coast. QLD, Australia, 17-20 July 2023.

Bilateral renal adenocarcinoma in a mare

2023

Journal Article

Equine Crofton weed (Ageratina spp.) pneumotoxicity: What do we know and what do we need to know?

Shapter, Frances Marie, Granados-Soler, José Luis, Stewart, Allison J., Bertin, Francois Rene and Allavena, Rachel (2023). Equine Crofton weed (Ageratina spp.) pneumotoxicity: What do we know and what do we need to know?. Animals, 13 (13) 2082, 1-15. doi: 10.3390/ani13132082

Equine Crofton weed (Ageratina spp.) pneumotoxicity: What do we know and what do we need to know?

2023

Journal Article

The Development of Cutaneous Lesions in Tropically Adapted Beef Cattle Is Associated with Hypersensitive Immune Response to Buffalo Fly Antigens

Naseem, Muhammad Noman, Raza, Ali, Kamran, Muhammad, Allavena, Rachel, Constantinoiu, Constantin, McGowan, Michael, Turni, Conny, Tabor, Ala E. and James, Peter (2023). The Development of Cutaneous Lesions in Tropically Adapted Beef Cattle Is Associated with Hypersensitive Immune Response to Buffalo Fly Antigens. Animals, 13 (12) 2011, 1-12. doi: 10.3390/ani13122011

The Development of Cutaneous Lesions in Tropically Adapted Beef Cattle Is Associated with Hypersensitive Immune Response to Buffalo Fly Antigens

2023

Journal Article

Development and application of a new liver pathology recording system for use in cattle abattoirs

Owen, Helen, Jones, Emily, Kowald, Carla, Hand, Sebastian, McGowan, Michael, Cobbold, Rowland, Barnes, Tamsin S., Gibson, Justine S., Ranjbar, Shahab, Palmieri, Chiara and Allavena, Rachel (2023). Development and application of a new liver pathology recording system for use in cattle abattoirs. Research in Veterinary Science, 158, 164-184. doi: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2023.03.002

Development and application of a new liver pathology recording system for use in cattle abattoirs

2023

Journal Article

Pathology and pathogenesis of cutaneous lesions in beef cattle associated with buffalo fly infestation

Naseem, Muhammad Noman, Allavena, Rachel, Raza, Ali, Constantinoiu, Constantin, McGowan, Michael, Turni, Conny, Kamran, Muhammad, Tabor, Ala E. and James, Peter (2023). Pathology and pathogenesis of cutaneous lesions in beef cattle associated with buffalo fly infestation. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 9 971813, 1-12. doi: 10.3389/fvets.2022.971813

Pathology and pathogenesis of cutaneous lesions in beef cattle associated with buffalo fly infestation

2022

Journal Article

Gender representation on journal editorial boards in the field of veterinary sciences

Wang, Althea, Dunlop, Rebecca, Allavena, Rachel and Palmieri, Chiara (2022). Gender representation on journal editorial boards in the field of veterinary sciences. Research in Veterinary Science, 148, 21-26. doi: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2022.05.001

Gender representation on journal editorial boards in the field of veterinary sciences

2022

Journal Article

Microstructure refinement in biodegradable Zn-Cu-Ca alloy for enhanced mechanical properties, degradation homogeneity, and strength retention in simulated physiological condition

Yang, Nan, Balasubramani, Nagasivamuni, Venezuela, Jeffrey, Bielefeldt-Ohmann, Helle, Allavena, Rachel, Almathami, Sharifah and Dargusch, Matthew (2022). Microstructure refinement in biodegradable Zn-Cu-Ca alloy for enhanced mechanical properties, degradation homogeneity, and strength retention in simulated physiological condition. Journal of Materials Science and Technology, 125, 1-14. doi: 10.1016/j.jmst.2022.03.006

Microstructure refinement in biodegradable Zn-Cu-Ca alloy for enhanced mechanical properties, degradation homogeneity, and strength retention in simulated physiological condition

Current funding

  • 2025
    Exploring novel immunotherapies for Canine Osteosarcoma
    Australian Companion Animal Health Foundation
    Open grant
  • 2024 - 2026
    Safety and Efficacy of Sunscreens in Animals
    Research Donation Generic
    Open grant
  • 2023 - 2025
    Dissecting the transcriptomic features of alimentary lymphoma and lymphoplasmacytic enteritis in cats
    Feline Health Research Fund
    Open grant

Past funding

  • 2023
    Combination immunotherapies for the treatment of solid canine cancers
    Canine Research Foundation
    Open grant
  • 2022 - 2023
    Advancing comparative oncoepidemiology of environmental cancers for improved surveillance and prevention in Australia
    Perpetual IMPACT Philanthropy Application Program
    Open grant
  • 2021 - 2023
    Carcass disposal destroy and let lie research
    Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries
    Open grant
  • 2020 - 2021
    Proposal for a simple, cheap and effective immunotherapy for solid tumors in pet dogs
    The University of Queensland in America, Inc
    Open grant
  • 2019 - 2022
    Purging of deleterious retroviral integrations at the earliest stages of genomic invasion (DFG grant administered by the Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research)
    Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research
    Open grant
  • 2019 - 2021
    Whole transcriptome analysis to reveal the genetic network behind canine osteosarcoma and identify new potentional biomarkers
    Research Donation Generic
    Open grant
  • 2019 - 2021
    Use of immunohistochemistry (IHC) to diagnose snake envenomation in dogs and cats post mortem
    Research Donation Generic
    Open grant
  • 2019 - 2020
    Automated immunohistochemical analysis module for the expansion of research and clinical diagnostic capabilities at UQ
    UQ Major Equipment and Infrastructure
    Open grant
  • 2018 - 2021
    Effect of liver defects on carcase characteristics, performance and health of feedlot cattle
    Meat & Livestock Australia
    Open grant
  • 2018 - 2020
    Exploration of biomarkers in companion animal bladder disease as a comparative model
    Research Donation Generic
    Open grant
  • 2018 - 2022
    Investigating prognosis and prognostic indicators for canine splenic complex nodular hyperplasia
    John & Mary Kibble Trust
    Open grant
  • 2017 - 2024
    Development of a single shot immunocontraceptive vaccine for cattle
    Meat & Livestock Australia
    Open grant
  • 2017 - 2018
    Role of cytokines in neoplastic growth and progression and chemotherapy resistance of canine osteosarcoma
    Research Donation Generic
    Open grant
  • 2017 - 2018
    Fighting koala declines with a mobile app - using citizen science to reduce mortalities and injuries in koalas
    Annandale Bequest
    Open grant
  • 2017 - 2018
    Skeletal trauma in koalas: Improving management by better understanding of koala fracture healing and resting bone physiology
    Annandale Bequest
    Open grant
  • 2017 - 2019
    Exploration of biomarkers in feline interstitial cystitis as a comparative model
    Research Donation Generic
    Open grant
  • 2017 - 2018
    Imaging and monitoring canine osteosarcoma with a novel radiolabelled peptide
    Canine Research Foundation
    Open grant
  • 2016 - 2023
    ARC Research Hub for Advanced Manufacturing of Medical Devices
    ARC Industrial Transformation Research Hubs
    Open grant
  • 2016 - 2018
    Combination novel immunotherapeutics for the treatment of dogs with cancer
    Canine Research Foundation
    Open grant
  • 2016 - 2019
    Pilot trial of novel immunotherapeutics iCFA and KVax in metastatic cancer in dogs
    Research Donation Generic
    Open grant
  • 2016 - 2018
    Validating fine-needle aspiration of solid tumours in dogs as a minimally invasive alternative to biopsy for assessing tumour microenvironment
    Research Donation Generic
    Open grant
  • 2015 - 2017
    The prevalence, clinical and pathological characteristics for elapid snake envenomation of small animals in Queensland
    Research Donation Generic
    Open grant
  • 2015 - 2022
    ACRF Facility for Molecular Imaging Agents in Cancer (AFMIAC)
    Australian Cancer Research Foundation
    Open grant
  • 2014 - 2017
    Validation of intra-mammary product for the treatment of mastitis in lactating dairy cows
    UniQuest Pty Ltd
    Open grant
  • 2014 - 2019
    Novel immunotherapeutics for canine cancer: use of intratumoral and personalised autologous as a treatment for naturally occuring cancer in pet dogs
    John & Mary Kibble Trust
    Open grant
  • 2013 - 2021
    KoalaBASE - standardised diagnostic procedures and epidemiological approaches, enhancing passive surveillance of SEQLD koala disease.
    Queensland Department of Environment and Heritage Protection
    Open grant
  • 2013 - 2017
    The pathology, incidence, treatment and management of Chlamydiosis in the male koala.
    Queensland Department of Environment and Heritage Protection
    Open grant
  • 2013 - 2020
    Trail of a simple and effective therapeutic cancer vaccine in dogs as a veterinary treatment and as an animal model for human cancer
    John & Mary Kibble Trust
    Open grant
  • 2013 - 2019
    Malakoplakia: An evaluation of risk factors, incidence and further investigation into the pathophysiology in dogs and cats
    John & Mary Kibble Trust
    Open grant
  • 2012 - 2013
    Trial of a simple and effective therapeutic cancer vaccine in dogs as a veterinary treatment and as an animal model for human cancer
    UQ New Staff Research Start-Up Fund
    Open grant

Availability

Professor Rachel Allavena is:
Available for supervision

Before you email them, read our advice on how to contact a supervisor.

Available projects

  • PhD/MPhil Opportunity: Canine Osteosarcoma Immunotherapy

    The University of Queensland's School of Veterinary Science invites exceptional candidates to lead innovative research in small animal medicine. This unique PhD opportunity focuses on developing advanced immunotherapies for canine osteosarcoma.

    Project Highlights: Explore tailored immunotherapies for dogs with osteosarcoma, delving into the tumour microenvironment to identify immunomodulatory targets.

    Research Objectives: Come along with us as we strive to 1) investigate the canine osteosarcoma tumour microenvironment intricacies, 2) Develop cutting-edge immunotherapies for this malignancy, and 3) Identify potential immunomodulatory targets within the tumour microenvironment.

    Your Impact: Become a pioneer in veterinary oncology, contributing to transformative changes. Your work may redefine treatment options, offering hope to countless dogs and their guardians. Be a driving force in shaping the future of canine health.

    Candidate Profile: Seeking a veterinarian with a passion for research, commitment to change, excellent communication skills, and a collaborative spirit. Our candidate should be an Australian-registered veterinary surgeon to run the clinical trial and perform the laboratory analysis. Techniques include histopathology, immunohistochemistry and RNA extraction and sequencing. Please consult the UQ graduate school website for further admissions information.

    Come on board and help us create a brighter, healthier future for our four-legged companions!

    Candidates will need to secure a scholarship if they require living expense support. Please review the Graduate School Website for admission requirements and details.

    Contact: Rachel Allavena on r.allavena@uq.edu.au for more information

  • Exciting PhD/MPhil Opportunity: Unravel Feline GI Lymphomas

    The University of Queensland's School of Veterinary Science invites exceptional candidates to lead innovative research in small animal medicine. This unique opportunity focuses on understanding the molecular intricacies of feline Alimentary Lymphoma (AL) and Lymphoplasmacytic Enteritis (LPE) in our feline friends supervised by Dr Jose Granados Soler and Prof Rachel Allavena.

    Project Highlights: Dive into the fascinating world of feline lymphomas with the University of Queensland's School of Veterinary Medicine! We're thrilled to offer a one-of-a-kind PhD/MPhil opportunity for you to explore the mysteries of AL and LPE in our feline friends.

    Objectives: Join us on this adventure as we aim to 1) identify key genes responsible for feline AL and LPE, 2) Uncover the molecular pathways driving the development of these diseases, and 3) Discover potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets that could make a real difference.

    Your Impact: By contributing to this project, you could be instrumental in advancing our understanding of these conditions. Your work may lead to the discovery of biomarkers and therapeutic targets that could improve the lives of cats affected by GI lymphomas.

    Candidate Profile: Calling all passionate veterinarians with a love for feline research, a collaborative spirit, and enthusiasm for bioinformatics and transcriptomic analysis. Our candidate should be an Australian-registered veterinary surgeon to run the clinical trial and perform the laboratory analysis.

    Candidates will need to secure a scholarship if they require living expense support. Please review the Graduate School Website for admission requirements and details.

    Contact: Dr Jose Granados j.granados@uq.edu.au or Prof Rachel Allavena on r.allavena@uq.edu.au for more information

  • PhD/MPhil Opportunity: Canine Osteosarcoma Immunotherapy

    The University of Queensland's School of Veterinary Science invites exceptional candidates to lead innovative research in small animal medicine. This unique PhD opportunity focuses on developing advanced immunotherapies for canine osteosarcoma.

    Project Highlights: Explore tailored immunotherapies for dogs with osteosarcoma, delving into the tumour microenvironment to identify immunomodulatory targets.

    Research Objectives: Come along with us as we strive to 1) investigate the canine osteosarcoma tumour microenvironment intricacies, 2) Develop cutting-edge immunotherapies for this malignancy, and 3) Identify potential immunomodulatory targets within the tumour microenvironment.

    Your Impact: Become a pioneer in veterinary oncology, contributing to transformative changes. Your work may redefine treatment options, offering hope to countless dogs and their guardians. Be a driving force in shaping the future of canine health.

    Candidate Profile: Seeking a veterinarian with a passion for research, commitment to change, excellent communication skills, and a collaborative spirit. Our candidate should be an Australian-registered veterinary surgeon to run the clinical trial and perform the laboratory analysis. Techniques include histopathology, immunohistochemistry and RNA extraction and sequencing. Please consult the UQ graduate school website for further admissions information.

    Come on board and help us create a brighter, healthier future for our four-legged companions!

    Candidates will need to secure a scholarship if they require living expense support. Please review the Graduate School Website for admission requirements and details.

    Contact: Rachel Allavena on r.allavena@uq.edu.au for more information

  • Exciting PhD/MPhil Opportunity: Unravel Feline GI Lymphomas

    The University of Queensland's School of Veterinary Science invites exceptional candidates to lead innovative research in small animal medicine. This unique opportunity focuses on understanding the molecular intricacies of feline Alimentary Lymphoma (AL) and Lymphoplasmacytic Enteritis (LPE) in our feline friends supervised by Dr Jose Granados Soler and Prof Rachel Allavena.

    Project Highlights: Dive into the fascinating world of feline lymphomas with the University of Queensland's School of Veterinary Medicine! We're thrilled to offer a one-of-a-kind PhD/MPhil opportunity for you to explore the mysteries of AL and LPE in our feline friends.

    Objectives: Join us on this adventure as we aim to 1) identify key genes responsible for feline AL and LPE, 2) Uncover the molecular pathways driving the development of these diseases, and 3) Discover potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets that could make a real difference.

    Your Impact: By contributing to this project, you could be instrumental in advancing our understanding of these conditions. Your work may lead to the discovery of biomarkers and therapeutic targets that could improve the lives of cats affected by GI lymphomas.

    Candidate Profile: Calling all passionate veterinarians with a love for feline research, a collaborative spirit, and enthusiasm for bioinformatics and transcriptomic analysis. Our candidate should be an Australian-registered veterinary surgeon to run the clinical trial and perform the laboratory analysis.

    Candidates will need to secure a scholarship if they require living expense support. Please review the Graduate School Website for admission requirements and details.

    Contact: Dr Jose Granados j.granados@uq.edu.au or Prof Rachel Allavena on r.allavena@uq.edu.au for more information

  • Affect of UV associated diseases on Australian pet populations

    This project could be done as an MPhil or PhD. The applicant will need to secure a full scholarship to allow for living expenses, health care costs (international) and tuition. The project will examine the spatiotemporal and signalment associated risk factors of UV disease, especially skin cancer in Australian pet populations using a Vet Compass Australia dataset. To extend into a PhD, surveys of awareness and adoption of skin protection measures by Australian pet owners, and analysis retrospective pathology datasets could be undertaken.

Supervision history

Current supervision

  • Master Philosophy

    Vaccine based immunotherapy for osteosarcoma treatment in dogs

    Principal Advisor

    Other advisors: Professor Chiara Palmieri

  • Doctor Philosophy

    Investigation into stem cell markers as potential therapeutic vaccine targets for cancer treatment in dogs

    Principal Advisor

    Other advisors: Dr Lee McMichael, Professor Chiara Palmieri

  • Doctor Philosophy

    Novel immunotherapeutics in the treatment of cancer in pet dogs: an investigation into the tumour microenvironment

    Principal Advisor

    Other advisors: Dr Lee McMichael, Dr Karen Jackson, Professor Chiara Palmieri, Dr Solomon Woldeyohannes

  • Doctor Philosophy

    Analysis of morbidity and mortality causes in Australian Racing animals

    Principal Advisor

    Other advisors: Professor Joerg Henning

  • Doctor Philosophy

    Investigation into stem cell markers as potential therapeutic vaccine targets for cancer treatment in dogs

    Principal Advisor

    Other advisors: Dr Lee McMichael, Professor Chiara Palmieri

  • Doctor Philosophy

    Comparing the clinical and histological changes seen in dogs treated with either an autologous anti-cancer vaccine or intra tumoral adjuvant.

    Principal Advisor

    Other advisors: Dr Lee McMichael, Professor Chiara Palmieri

  • Doctor Philosophy

    The epidemiology of interactions between snakes and their anthropogenic environment

    Associate Advisor

    Other advisors: Professor Joerg Henning

  • Doctor Philosophy

    The epidemiology of interactions between snakes and their anthropogenic environment

    Associate Advisor

    Other advisors: Professor Joerg Henning

  • Doctor Veterinary Clinical Sci

    Comparative oncology in companion animal models

    Associate Advisor

    Other advisors: Professor Chiara Palmieri

Completed supervision

Enquiries

Contact Professor Rachel Allavena directly for media enquiries about:

  • Animal Cruelty
  • Animal Forensics
  • Animal health
  • Animal Pathology
  • Animal Research
  • Animal Welfare
  • Comparative medicine
  • Dog Cancer
  • Dogs
  • Koala threats
  • Pet health
  • Pet Poisonings
  • Pets
  • Racing Animals
  • Translational medicine

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