Dr Jessica Buck and Associate Professor Raelene Endersby have been appointed to the prestigious Australian Brain Cancer Mission Expert Advisory Panel, a key group responsible for advising the government on the research priorities for brain cancer under the Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF).
Their appointments not only highlight their expertise but also position them at the forefront of shaping national strategies to combat brain cancer.
The Expert Advisory Panel plays a pivotal role in providing strategic advice to the Minister for Health and Aged Care. It focuses on defining critical knowledge gaps and setting priorities that guide the allocation of research funding. A key task for the panel is to revise the Mission's existing Roadmap and to develop a comprehensive Implementation Plan, which will be reviewed by international experts and undergo national consultation to gather community feedback.
“My number one priority is to ensure that the remaining Mission funding is directed towards research that has the best chance of achieving our goal of transformative improvement to the quality and length of life of patients with brain cancer. These investments must focus on the best ideas, the best talent, and opportunities for maximal impact,” Associate Professor Endersby said.
Through their advisory roles, Dr Buck and Associate Professor Endersby will engage with a wide range of stakeholders, including researchers, industry representatives, and patient groups.
The Mission itself represents a $126.4 million investment aimed at defeating brain cancer. Its ambitious goals include doubling the survival rate for Australians living with brain cancer by 2027, improving the quality of life for patients, and ensuring that every individual—adult or child—has access to clinical trials.
“In addition to seeing expansions in high quality clinical and preclinical brain cancer research in Australia, one major hope is to facilitate domestic and international collaboration, across diverse disciplines, enabling brain cancer researchers to consolidate expertise and hopefully accelerate progress.”
Both Dr Buck and A/Professor Endersby bring a unique and valuable perspective through their expertise in childhood and adult cancer.
Associate Professor Endersby is a world-renowned childhood brain cancer scientist with a track record of exceptional scientific leadership. She is the co-leader of the Brain Tumour Research Team at The Kids, bringing together a scientifically diverse team of preclinical and clinical researchers to achieve demonstrated improved clinical outcomes for childhood brain cancer.
Dr Buck’s expertise spans across neuroscience and cancer research. As an Early-Mid Career Researcher (EMCR), she contributes valuable insights into the design of the grant schemes, ensuring they provide support for both emerging and experienced researchers.
Their appointments to this influential panel are a testament to their contributions to the field of brain cancer research and mark an exciting opportunity for them to help shape the future of research and treatment in Australia.