Tributes pour in for cancer researcher Richard Scolyer, who died at 59
Renowned cancer researcher Richard Scolyer dies at 59 after testing experimental brain tumour therapy on himself
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Professor Richard Scolyer, a prominent Australian cancer researcher, passed away at 59 after battling glioblastoma. He was known for his innovative work in immunotherapy and for testing an experimental treatment on himself. His contributions to cancer research earned him the title of Australian of the Year in 2024.
- 01Richard Scolyer was diagnosed with grade 4 glioblastoma in June 2023 and initially given six to nine months to live.
- 02He developed an experimental treatment plan for brain cancer based on immunotherapy principles that he had previously used for melanoma.
- 03Scolyer's treatment showed promising results, with scans remaining tumor-free for nearly two years before the cancer returned in 2025.
- 04He continued to advocate for cancer research during his illness, hoping his experience would benefit future patients.
- 05Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced a state funeral for Scolyer and a cancer research chair will be named in his honor.
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Professor Richard Scolyer, a distinguished Australian pathologist and cancer researcher, died at the age of 59 after a battle with grade 4 glioblastoma, a severe form of brain cancer. Diagnosed in June 2023, he was initially given a prognosis of six to nine months but survived for nearly three years due to an innovative treatment strategy he co-developed. Scolyer was a co-medical director at the Melanoma Institute Australia and was instrumental in advancing immunotherapy for melanoma, earning the title of Australian of the Year in 2024 alongside Professor Georgina Long. After his diagnosis, he opted for an experimental treatment plan that combined immunotherapy with personalized vaccines, leading to significant immune responses and tumor control for almost two years. Despite the cancer's return in 2025, Scolyer remained committed to cancer research, documenting his journey to inspire others. His passing has prompted tributes, including a state funeral and the establishment of a research chair in his name at Sydney's Chris O'Brien Lifehouse.
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Scolyer's innovative research and treatment strategies have the potential to influence future cancer therapies and patient care.
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