ANU honours eminent cancer researcher

One of Australia’s most distinguished cancer biologists, Professor Suzanne Cory, was awarded the Curtin Medal at a ceremony at The John Curtin School of Medical Research (JCSMR) last week.

The award recognises Professor Cory’s research on the molecular genetics of cancer and her lifelong contribution to research in the fields of molecular biology and biotechnology.
 
Her research produced groundbreaking ideas on the contribution of gene rearrangements to cancer development. More recently, Professor Cory and her colleagues have shown that the development of many tumours can result from preventing cell death.

The award was presented by JCSMR Director Professor Frances Shannon, who praised Professor Cory for her lifelong dedication to cancer research and her support of women in science.
 
“It’s a great pleasure to award the Curtin Medal to Professor Cory today. With her partner, both in life and in research, Professor Jerry Adams, she is part of one of the most formidable teams in bio medical research in this country,” Professor Shannon said.

“She is a passionate advocate of the advancement of medical research and biotechnology and an excellent role model for other females in science.”

Professor Cory who was the first woman appointed as Director of the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute in Melbourne, said that she was thrilled to accept the Curtin Medal.

“It’s an enormous pleasure to stand before you today and wear this medal. To hear the list of illustrious medallists that have been awarded the medal in the past make the honour even greater,” she said.

The Curtin Medal is awarded annually by JCSMR to an Australian that has made an outstanding contribution to medical science.