Professors in the making

West Australian school students with aspirations to become the next generation of medical professionals had the rare and inspiring opportunity this week to hear from the 2024 Australians of the Year.

The future scientists, doctors, and medical researchers attended a forum with Australians of the Year Professor Georgina Long AO and Professor Richard Scolyer AO, who are world-leading melanoma researchers.  

They are the co-medical directors of Melanoma Institute Australia, which focusses on achieving ‘zero deaths from melanoma’, Australia’s cancer. Melanoma, a deadly form of skin cancer, is largely caused by sun exposure, so they were keen to spread the sun-safe message.

Although the death rate from melanoma has decreased due to the clinical trials using immunotherapy conducted at the Institute by Professor Long and her team, the pair emphasise that ‘prevention is better than cure’.   

Professor Scolyer became the world’s first brain cancer patient to consent to an experimental immunotherapy approach used in melanoma, which activates a patient’s own immune system. The hope is that the clinical and scientific team can advance the understanding of brain cancer and benefit future patients.  

Students engaged with the duo in a discussion session at Bob Hawke College in Subiaco where they learnt about disease prevention, stem cell research, and leadership.  

Among those in the audience was Shenton College student Kiet who has an interest in pursuing a career in this field and enjoyed the inspiring experience.  

“Once you have got your sights set on something you want to do in the future, you just have to take advantage of all the opportunities you have to get exposure to people who are experts in the field and to be inspired to follow in their footsteps,” Kiet said.  

“Making your research relevant to your own situation, that was really kind of cool to me. You are working for the world, but also for yourself to improve your situation because you recognise that scientific research is relevant to everyone, and it can impact everyone across the world.  

“I loved how it was a discussion, it was relatable, and that sense of evenness and realising that we can become like them was really cool.” 

Fellow Shenton College student Chloe agreed, saying she learnt a lot from the professors.  

“It was so interesting, I loved hearing about all the different areas of research as well as autoimmune diseases,” Chloe said. 

“I think curiosity as well (is important) like always ask questions, always pursue knowledge no matter what, and don’t get disheartened, always continue.” 

The forum was presented by Auspire, the Department of Education Western Australia, and Perdaman Group.  

For more information on Professor Long and Professor Scolyer’s research, access the Melanoma Institute Australia website.