Professor Saunders awarded joint scientist of the year

16 Aug 2017

16 August 2017

The prominent cancer surgeon and internationally regarded cancer researcher has a particular research interest in breast cancer, including clinical trials of new treatments, supportive care and translational and health services research, which have led to better treatments and improved survival for people with cancer.

Professor Saunders said she is appreciative of the award and how it highlights the excellent research being undertaken in Western Australia, which is having a global impact. 

“Winning this award is a real win for recognising the importance of clinical medical research in science. It also highlights how in WA we have such great collaborative teams which not only can do world class research but help change the way we practice medicine by implementing this research - and so improving the lives of people affected by cancer,” Professor Saunders said. 

“Certainly from my point of view this is not an award to an individual but to the team that do cancer research here in WA and across Australia.”

St John of God Subiaco Hospital CEO Professor Shirley Bowen said we are delighted that Professor Saunders has been recognised for the incredible work she is undertaking in breast cancer research and assisting the lives of people with cancer.  

“The hospitals’ breast cancer research group is thriving under Christobel’s strong leadership and skills,” Professor Bowen said.

“Christobel has greatly expanded the research undertaken by our breast cancer research unit, which now includes the full spectrum of breast cancer, from prevention through to survivorship.”

Professor Saunders is a consultant surgeon at St John of God Subiaco Hospital, Royal Perth and Fiona Stanley Hospitals, a Professor of Surgical Oncology and head of The University of Western Australia’s School of Surgery.

Professor Saunders received the Scientist of the Year award alongside Professor Harvey Millar from the UWA’s School of Molecular Sciences and National Director of the ARC Centre of Excellence in Plant Energy Biology. 

The awards were established by the State Government in 2002 to honour the outstanding achievements of WA’s science and innovation community.