‘We’ve still got a way to go to be able to completely eradicate all cancers, but it is a dream worth chasing. One day, research will find a way.’

Congratulations to our very own Dr Yada Kanjanapan who recently won the 2022 Professor M Tattersall Heroes Award.

This honour recognised Yada’s significant contribution in the field of medical oncology in Australia – specifically her outstanding leadership on development of a statement on COVID-19 vaccination for individuals with cancer. Earlier this year, Yada‘s research on COVID-19 vaccine response in patients on cancer therapy won the Best Poster Prize in Adult Medicine at the Royal Australasian College of Physicians’ Congress.

‘Both of these awards reflect the achievement of the research team,’ Yada said.

‘None of this research would be possible if it wasn’t for the hard work and dedication of every individual in the team. I’m proud of having been part of this effort.’

Yada spends the majority of her time as a clinician, treating patients in the Canberra Region Cancer Centre. When she isn’t with her patients, she divides her time between being a clinical senior lecturer at the Australian National University (ANU) and as the lead on several research projects.

‘There’s always a mixture of excitement and anxiety when you’re about to start a new research project,’ she said.

‘The anxiety is somewhat self-induced because you really want to get it done as flawlessly as possible. The excitement comes from the prospect that our work can make some impact on cancer treatment and outcome.’

Reflecting on her career Yada says that medicine was always an interest, and the field of oncology held plenty of scope for research and future advancements. And so, in 2013, the energetic doctor began her oncology training in Canberra.

‘What attracted me to oncology was the potential for many developments in our understanding of cancer and ways to treat, and possibly eradicate it.

‘It’s what makes cancer research both interesting and rewarding.

‘Research is key to progress in medicine, and Canberra has some of the best scientists and researchers, including those at the Australian National University whom I have had the privilege of collaborating with. It is also rewarding to mentor and see the progress made by students and helping them shape an exciting career ahead of them.’

For Yada, oncology is a fulfilling field to work in, to make a difference to the lives of cancer patients.

‘It’s a role where you share the journey with your patients,’ she said. ‘While always providing professional guidance for patients, but you also share the happy and difficult times with them and their families. Along with achieving the best possible outcome for their cancer, being able to provide patients with a better quality of life is also very important.’

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