Two researchers from La Trobe University’s School of Cancer Medicine and the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute (ONJCRI) have been awarded post-doctoral fellowships under a $2.7 million package to mark World Cancer Day.
The fellowships, a partnership between the Victorian Government and Cancer Council Victoria, allow early-career researchers who have not yet received significant funding to investigate the causes, prevention, detection and treatment of cancer.
Dr Laura Jenkins will combine two inhibitors to suppress a gene, known as MYC, which drives many cancers. The project will explore whether MYC reduction can improve responses to treatment, improving outcomes for bowel cancer patients.
Dr Ryan O’Keefe will investigate the role of type 2 innate lymphoid cells in gastric cancer.
This research will focus on a specific type of immune cells, known as group 2 innate lymphoid cells, which usually help fight infections but may also play a role in cancer growth and spread.
La Trobe’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Industry Engagement Professor Chris Pakes said the partnership between the University and ONJCRI was advancing research into a disease that affected many Australians.
“It was fantastic to see two of our early-career researchers supported through these fellowships. I congratulate Laura and Ryan on their achievement,” Professor Pakes said.
“Cancer is a disease that touches the lives of all Australians either directly or through knowing someone affected. It is important that research to combat this continues to be championed.”
The fellowships were two of six awarded by the State Government.
Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas said recipients focussed on a diverse range of research areas, highlighting that every experience of cancer was unique.
“Victoria has some of the best cancer survival outcomes globally, but there’s more to do – that’s why we’re backing our world-leading researchers, whose dedication could see the next big breakthrough in treatment and care.”
