The next generation of cancer research will be boosted with awards being offered through Victoria's leading cancer centres. The Picchi Award for Excellence in Cancer Research supports outstanding PhD students in the disciplines of basic science, clinical science and population health.
The Monash Partners Comprehensive Cancer Consortium (MPCCC) inaugural Award for Outstanding Cancer Research will recognise the achievements of innovative and impactful Victorian mid-career cancer researchers.
Each year PhD students are invited to make a submission in the categories of basic science, clinical science and population health.
Up to three $10,000 prizes recognising excellence in cancer research are awarded to PhD students of the VCCC alliance in a tradition that has spanned more than a decade and acknowledges potential world-class researchers embarking on their careers. The Picchi Brothers Foundation supports the awards to inspire and encourage the next generation of leaders in cancer research.
The intention is that prizes will provide recipients with the opportunity to travel internationally for conferences and/or collaborative work to support their development towards research independence.
Due to the global travel restrictions brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic and subject to approval, an extension of the proposed travel period, or utilisation of the award in another way to support research activities and/or publication is likely in 2020.
The MPCCC will recognise the achievements of innovative and impactful Victorian mid-career cancer researchers, with the presentation of its inaugural 2020 Award for Outstanding Cancer Research.
The prize of $5,000 aims to reinforce cancer research as a career choice by acknowledging the work of an outstanding mid-career researcher who is likely to become part of the next generation of Victoria’s leading cancer researchers.
“Sustaining impactful research is not for the faint-hearted. It requires determination, persistence, and a steadfast belief that you are making a real difference,” says Professor Melissa Southey, Research Director of the MPCCC.
“We decided to direct this award to mid-career researchers as transiting the treacherous bridge between early career into positions of leadership is often when scientists do their best thinking and produce astonishing new knowledge in cancer research fields.”
