As we celebrate International Women's Day 2025, MPCCC is proud to spotlight two extraordinary women in cancer research—Dr. Claire Sun and Dr. Lisa Mielke, winners of the 2023 MPCCC Outstanding Researcher Awards. Their groundbreaking work embodies this year’s theme: For ALL women and girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.

Since winning the award, Dr. Claire Sun has continued her work in paediatric cancer as the lead bioinformatician in the Next Generation Precision Medicine group. She is now leading a new project focused on investigating epigenetic regulation in immunogenicity in paediatric high-grade gliomas, funded by the MRFF. This research aims to uncover how epigenetic mechanisms influence the immune response in these aggressive brain tumors, with the goal of identifying novel therapeutic strategies. Claire’s fascination with genomic data drives her work, aiming to uncover novel therapeutic strategies. However, she acknowledges the challenges many women in science face, particularly balancing family commitments with career progression. “Creating supportive environments and flexible career pathways is crucial,” she says, emphasizing the need for workplace policies that foster equal opportunities.

Dr. Lisa Mielke continues to expand her research at the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute and La Trobe University, building her research team. Her work focuses on understanding the crosstalk between immune cells and their interactions with other cells in the large bowel. This research is crucial in uncovering the factors driving the development of bowel cancer, especially as rates continue to rise among younger populations. Lisa stresses the importance of diversity in science, urging institutions and funding agencies to take responsibility for supporting and empowering women researchers. “We owe this to cancer patients and their families,” she says.

Both researchers emphasise the need for greater support for women in leadership positions within cancer research. Despite a strong presence of female researchers early in their careers, leadership roles remain male-dominated. They stress that institutions, boards, and funding agencies must take action to promote gender diversity at higher levels. By ensuring women have the necessary opportunities and resources to thrive, the research community can harness a wider range of perspectives, ultimately leading to more innovative breakthroughs in cancer treatment.

Both women credit strong female mentors for guiding their journeys and encourage young women to persist in scientific research. Claire advises, “Believe in yourself and stay curious,” while Lisa encourages aspiring researchers to “find your tribe who will cheer you on.”

On this International Women’s Day, we celebrate their contributions, resilience, and commitment to advancing cancer research for the benefit of all.

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