Creating the cancer researchers of tomorrow
24 September 2024
Peter Mac is a world leading cancer research, education and treatment centre and Australia’s only public health service solely dedicated to caring for people affected by cancer.
But we’re also proud of the role we play in developing the next generation of cancer researchers.
Today is World Cancer Research Day, a day to highlight the importance of research in the quest to reduce the number of people who develop cancer and to improve survival rates and quality of life among cancer patients.
At Peter Mac there are over 250 students at any one-time studying doctorates, masters and honours including PhD student and co-President of the Peter Mac Student committee, Kelsy Prest, who moved to Melbourne to study cancer research.
“Cancer research really appealed to me because it combined my fascination with biology and my desire to make a difference in cancer outcomes,” she said.
“I really enjoy cancer research because it’s like a big mystery that needs solving, the more I learn the more excited I get to uncover new pieces of information that will help solve the mystery.
“I feel incredibly privileged to conduct research at Peter Mac, as we have access to world-class facilities within our own building, along with numerous opportunities to learn from and engage with fellow researchers through seminars and conferences hosted by the institute.
“I would definitely recommend pursuing a career in cancer research to anyone who is naturally curious and passionate about biology and want to make a difference.”
Dr Erika Cretney, Head of Research Education at Peter Mac said the quality of supervision, exciting research projects, world class facilities along with a supportive student environment are all key reasons why research students come to Peter Mac.
“The Peter Mac Research Education program creates opportunities for clinical and lab research staff and students to interact and share ideas,” she said.
“We really have a unique environment here where research ideas and concepts can be taken from the bench to bedside and back.
“Almost half of our PhD students are clinicians who can bring that lived clinician experience to the lab and we work hard as a team to foster this collaboration.
The cancer research students are very well supported with supervisors, a mentor and an advisory committee consisting of scientists and clinicians who ensure they receive adequate training and remain on track to submit their thesis.
Dr Cretney explained that there are also lots of opportunities to be social with an annual student retreat, trivia nights and other social events to make sure the students feel welcome, supported and enjoy their work environment.
“All Peter Mac students are part of the Comprehensive Cancer PhD Program, a doctoral program open to any student conducting cancer-related research in the VCCC,” she said.
“Through the program students can attend an annual Student Symposium, ‘Chat with a Nobel Laureate’ and access workshops, seminars and online trainings.”
If you would like to learn more about cancer research at Peter Mac please visit our website.