Braden Burdekin
Lab Manager and Research Associate
As a research scientist and lab manager of the Comparative Radiation Oncology Laboratory, I see first-hand how incredible the field of radiation is for treating cancer. We’ve learned so much but there is still so far to go. The possibilities are endless and I firmly believe the progress we are making in the field of radiation oncology could improve the lives of countless individuals, pets, and people alike.
I grew up in Colorado Springs, Colorado. We had animals in the home, including cats, dogs, and guinea pigs. I have always loved animals and knew I wanted to pursue a career working with them in some capacity. As a child, I didn’t foresee research but this career suits me more than I could have imagined.
I attended Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, Washington, studying applied physics, and later took post-baccalaureate courses in biology at Portland State University in Portland, Oregon. It was at Portland State that I volunteered in the Buckley Lab, investigating the effects of climate change on Nile Tilapia, and discovered a passion for research.
For five years, I worked as a veterinary assistant in several primary care and multispecialty clinics. It was during these years that I saw just how frequently pets are diagnosed with cancer and just how devastating a cancer diagnosis is for families.
A move to the Twin Cities afforded me a chance to get back to research. At the University of Minnesota, I took a role working in the Thomas Laboratory, performing research on cardiac tissue. It didn’t take long for me to realize that the work being done in the lab directly impacts the patients in the clinic.
When I moved to Fort Collins, I knew I wanted to continue working in research. I enjoy solving problems and figuring out new ways to do things. I feel fortunate that I was hired to work with Dr. Boss on radiation oncology projects.
As the lab manager, I help design our studies and then ensure they run smoothly and on schedule. I order all lab supplies and coordinate the team. I also work alongside the Veterinary Teaching Hospital veterinarians to conduct our clinical trials studies.
Currently, our lab is working on a nasal tumor research project. We’re testing a combination of repurposed drugs in parallel with radiation therapy to see if we can modify the immune microenvironment to better fight cancer. This study has applications for both humans and animals, and early results are promising in all species.
My favorite part of my job is seeing our basic lab research make it into the clinic. Clinical trials are really important and seeing our work take the next step is exciting. We get to see the things we’ve done in the lab in the real world to test if they make a difference. Cancer is something that touches everyone and I feel lucky to play a small role in finding better treatments for all.
When I’m not working, I love to bake and cook. I am also an avid runner and enjoy pottery in my free time. I have one cat named Luna.
I look forward to continuing to be a part of the fight against cancer.