The next generation of cancer research leaders are being supported through a four-year cancer research fellowship program, supported by the state government.
Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas has announced the inaugural cohort of recipients as part of the new $41.2 million Cancer Research Fellowships Victoria (CFRV).
The CFRV is delivered in collaboration with Cancer Council Victoria to strengthen Victoria’s cancer research landscape and accelerate the development of innovative treatments, diagnostic tools and therapies.
“Victorian researchers are global leaders in fighting cancer – that’s why we are continuing to invest in the people and projects that drive better public cancer care and work towards our ultimate goal of a cancer-free state,” Ms Thomas said.
“These fellowships are about backing the next generation of researchers, giving them the support they need to take the next step in their careers and deliver the breakthroughs that matter to Victorians and people around the world.”
The CRFV will also support Victorian-based researchers to access philanthropic funding and increase the competitiveness of fellows to secure national funding.
The investment over four years will see fellowships awarded to up to 24 early career cancer researchers (six per year) and 40 mid-career postdoctoral researchers (10 per year) – with funding of up to $450,000 over three years, and up to $700,000 over four years, respectively.
This year’s 18 inaugural fellowships include support for eight early-career and 10 mid-career researchers working on new discoveries.
Among these recipients is Dr Bonnita Werner from the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and University of Melbourne who has been awarded a $450,000 three-year early-career fellowship to support her research into new immunotherapy approaches for ovarian cancer.
Her project will make major contributions to the world’s first study of antibodies produced by long term survivors of any cancer type, potentially leading to the development of new and improved immunotherapies for people living with high-grade serous carcinoma.
