In 2019, VCCC and the University of Melbourne undertook a study to learn how small grant funding might facilitate early career development of cancer researchers - hoping to understand whether there is evidence that small philanthropic funds play a role in supporting flourishing careers in cancer research. Initial results have shown the importance of opportunities being available; collaboration and networks, and that there is an impact which is notable for small grants… and a genuine value in philanthropic funds.
In 2020 VCCC is once again proud to partner with the Picchi Brothers Foundation to invite applications for the Picchi Award for Excellence in Cancer Research. Up to three $10,000 prizes will be awarded to PhD students from the VCCC alliance in basic science, clinical science and population health.
Amanda Oliver Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology won a ‘Picchi’ last year for her work in the category of basic science. She shares her experience here.
I really just fell into my cancer immunotherapy project when I was searching for PhD projects. I have a background in biochemistry and molecular biology but I came across a project which made me curious to know more. Immunology was new to me, but I was assured at the time that I could learn what I needed to. Looking back, the fact that I was encouraged in a whole new area has given me the confidence to know that I can learn new things and overcome challenges when I need to.
The Picchi Award enabled me to attend two conferences in London and Paris and I got to visit a few labs in the UK; in particular, the Wellcome Sanger Institute and Dr Sarch Teichmann’s lab. I was offered a postdoc position in their lab, looking at the human cell atlas of the lung. This again opens up a new area for me in bioinformatics, which will be really interesting. I think that is important, that it is not just a job but an area where I can continue to learn and grow.
Now is a really exciting time in the development of immunotherapies for cancer. There has been much success in the clinic; CAR T-cells have been approved in different countries; we have two Nobel prize winners. I think it offers a significant way forward in terms of cancer care.
Immunotherapies present a wonderful opportunity to relieve fear of cancer relapse in patients and their families because successful immunotherapies theoretically lead to immunological memory against the cancer, like a vaccine against a virus. It has the potential to be very reassuring.
There are probably two things. Be clear and be enthusiastic. You need to give a clear message about your research and ensure you are understood. People need to be able to appreciate the overall impact of your work. And be enthusiastic about it. You want people to think… this person is really excited about this… maybe I should be too?
Applications are now open for the Picchi Award 2020. Details and application form are available on the VCCC website and applications close Monday 11 May 2020. Please commence your application early as supporting documentation is required.
Image: Picchi Award winners 2019. Amanda holds her award on the right.
