Translating microbiome and immunology research into better cancer treatment decisions

Dr Howard Yim develops microbiome-based therapeutic strategies and predictive tools to improve cancer treatment outcomes and decision-making.

His work addresses a key challenge in cancer care: the limited ability to anticipate treatment response, risks, and downstream consequences before patients commit to aggressive therapies. By integrating immunology, microbiome science, and translational research, his work supports more informed, personalised, and effective treatment pathways.

Research Expertise

• Microbiome-based cancer therapeutics, including next-generation probiotics

• Role of the microbiome and virome in cancer development and treatment response

• Predictive approaches to support cancer treatment decision-making

• Translational immunology and host–microbe interactions

Industry & Advisory Engagement

Dr Yim provides independent scientific and strategic consultancy to industry, investors, and innovation organisations, with a focus on translational biomedical research, cancer therapeutics, microbiome science, and regulatory-informed development.

His advisory experience includes:

• Industry Advisor, Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) Corporate Venture Fund

• Former Specialist Advisor, Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)

• Peer reviewer for international and national competitive research funding schemes 

Consultancy and advisory engagements are undertaken in accordance with UNSW policies and relevant confidentiality requirements.

Dr Yim is a Senior Lecturer at UNSW Sydney and leads the Cancer Theme at the UNSW Microbiome Research Centre.