Annie Wong, Consultant Medical Oncologist at Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and Senior Lecturer at The University of Auckland and University of Otago, Lung, shared a post by Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre on LinkedIn:
“Couldn’t be more proud of one of my best friends and colleague Dr Aparna Rao. She remains one of the most passionate clinician scientists I know. She has been a long time peer mentor in the research journey during our PhD days.
We’re so lucky to have her in our melanoma unit driving the hard scientific questions that underpin our patient care. It’s so wonderful to see her getting the well deserved recognition after all the years of hard work! Congratulations from everyone in the melanoma unit, research and med onc family!!!”
Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre‘s post:
“We’re proud to celebrate Dr Aparna Rao, Dr Deborah Meyran and Associate Professor Safeera Hussainy, who have been awarded the 2026 Lea Medal.
First awarded at Peter Mac a decade ago in response to historic gender imbalances in the senior ranks of health and science, the Lea Medal is designed to raise the profile of our female-identifying, early to mid-career researchers at a critical stage in their careers.
Dr Deborah Meyran will advance her research into immunotherapy for childhood cancers, strengthening international collaborations and deepening understanding of how the immune system interacts with paediatric tumours.
Associate Professor Safeera Hussainy will progress research focused on improving sexual health care for people affected by cancer, translating findings into practical outcomes including training and future service development.
Dr Aparna Rao will further her research into how cancer and immune cells use energy in melanoma, using advanced imaging to uncover new targets for future therapies.
Congratulations to these outstanding researchers whose innovative work and leadership continue to drive progress in cancer research and care.
Each recipient receives $50,000 to support their career advancement, made possible through the generosity of donors to the Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation.”
Other articles featuring Annie Wong on OncoDaily.