MEET
THE RESEARCHERS
The Foundation funds some of the biggest, boldest, newest ideas in breast cancer research — ideas that often times don't qualify for traditional funding, but have the potential to transform the treatments of tomorrow.
“The enthusiasm and passion that Vera Bradley Foundation volunteers and professionals have for curing this disease inspires me as I work to help women live longer, healthier lives after a diagnosis of breast cancer.”
Bryan Schneider, MD
Dr. Schneider is a passionate medical oncologist specializing in breast cancer and precision oncology, dedicated to making treatments more personalized and equitable. As the Vera Bradley Foundation Professor of Oncology, Dr. Schneider's groundbreaking research has uncovered vital insights into how different people respond to therapies, particularly for patients of African descent. His work is directly leading to more effective and less toxic treatment plans. He spearheaded EAZ171, a pioneering clinical trial focused on black patients with breast cancer, demonstrating how personalized therapy can minimize toxicity and improve outcomes. Dr. Schneider is also leading the way in personalized approaches for high-risk triple-negative breast cancer, bringing new hope to those who need it most.
Mateusz Opyrchal, MD, PhD
Dr. Opyrchal is an Associate Professor of Medicine and the Vera Bradley Foundation Scholar in Breast Cancer Discovery. He holds both an MD and PhD from Rutgers University. In his clinical practice, Dr. Opyrchal specializes in breast oncology, with a particular focus on leveraging immunotherapy to combat breast cancer and other solid tumors. His research is dedicated to developing novel therapies and enhancing the immune response, particularly in challenging cases like triple-negative breast cancer. His expertise extends to leading early-stage clinical trials, ensuring that cutting-edge discoveries translate into real-world benefits for patients.
Pravin Kaumaya, PhD
The Vera Bradley Foundation welcomes Dr. Kaumaya, a globally recognized innovator, as the Vera Bradley Foundation Professor of Breast Cancer Innovation and Director of the Immuno-Oncology and Vaccine Immunotherapy Laboratory. Dr. Kaumaya's pioneering work focuses on developing peptide-based vaccines to block cancer growth and spread, offering a promising blueprint for treatment. With his research already advancing through clinical trials, Dr. Kaumaya's expertise accelerates the quest for a future free from breast cancer, and may also impact other cancers such as ovarian, lung, and colorectal. His commitment to novel, non-toxic therapies brings renewed hope to patients and the field of cancer research.
Tarah Ballinger, MD
Dr. Ballinger, the Vera Bradley Foundation Scholar in Breast Cancer Research, is a passionate advocate for breast health and well-being. With a background in biochemistry, philosophy, and medicine, she brings a unique perspective to her work as an Associate Professor of Clinical Medicine. Her clinical practice centers on breast oncology and empowering women through cancer prevention. Dr. Ballinger's innovative research investigates how body composition and physical activity impact patients throughout the cancer continuum, offering insights that promote healthier lifestyles and improve outcomes.
Kathy D. Miller, MD
Dr. Miller, the Ballvé Lantero Professor of Oncology, is a dedicated breast care specialist at the Women's Clinic and is committed to providing compassionate and cutting-edge care. Dr. Miller uniquely blends patient care with groundbreaking research. As chair of the ECOG-ACRIN Breast Core Committee, she fosters collaboration between academic scientists and community oncologists to develop impactful clinical trials, translating discoveries into real-world benefits for patients everywhere. She also serves as principal investigator of the National Clinical Trials Network at Indiana University, further solidifying her commitment to advancing cancer research and care.
Harikrishna Nakshatri, BVSc, PhD
An advocate for personalized cancer care, Dr. Nakshatri is the Marian J. Morrison Professor of Breast Cancer Research at Indiana University School of Medicine. As a leader at the IU Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, he is at the forefront of breast cancer research. Dr. Nakshatri's innovative work focuses on understanding therapy resistance and biological disparities, with the goal of tailoring treatments to individual patients based on their genetic background and ancestry. His discoveries are transforming our understanding of breast cancer and its unique challenges in different populations.
Dr. Nakshatri’s Work:
Mapping of Healthy Breast Cells
Kelvin Lee, MD
A leading medical oncologist and multiple myeloma researcher, Dr. Lee brings a wealth of expertise to his role as Director of the Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center and the Vera Bradley Foundation Center for Breast Cancer Research. As Associate Dean of Cancer Research and H.H. Gregg Professor of Oncology at IU School of Medicine, he champions patient-centered research and innovative clinical trials. Dr. Lee's dedication extends beyond the lab, where he holds two patents and has authored over 100 papers in peer-reviewed journals, to the clinic, where he provides compassionate care to patients with multiple myeloma and spearheads efforts to bring promising new treatments to those battling cancer.
Team science is critical. Breast cancer must be confronted by both scientists in the laboratory and physicians attending to patients to overcome the complexities the disease presents. Funding has resulted in a critical mass of talented investigators, each bringing complementary expertise.