Richard Scolyer Has Died

4 hours ago

Pioneering Australian doctor Richard Scolyer, co-director of the Melanoma Institute Australia, has died after a three-year battle with an aggressive glioblastoma brain tumor.
Scolyer underwent a world-first experimental treatment involving pre-surgery combination immunotherapy and a personalized vaccine, based on his and Professor Georgina Long's melanoma research breakthroughs.
Their immunotherapy work has dramatically improved outcomes for advanced melanoma patients globally, curing about half compared to less than 10% previously.
Scolyer's treatment sparked an early-stage clinical trial in the US to replicate the positive immune response observed in his scans.
He was named Australian of the Year in 2024 alongside Long and was celebrated as a national treasure and brilliant scientist.
In his final letter, Scolyer expressed pride in his family and career, including mentoring pathologists, and urged continued bold scientific innovation and government funding.

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