Griffith cancer research among the best

Professor Jiri Neuzil in his lab at Griffith Health Institute
Professor Jiri Neuzil in his lab at Griffith Health Institute

Griffith University has been acknowledged as one of Australia’s leading cancer research institutions through the awarding of four major research grants by Cancer Council Queensland (CCQ).

The grants are highly sought after by researchers, not just for their economic value, but for their recognition by the peak community organisation affected by their research.

The four successful team leaders were, Associate Professor Nigel McMillan, Associate Professor Helen Blanchard, Professor Jiri Neuzil and Dr Stephen Wood.

Research connected to community

Griffith Health acting Pro-Vice Chancellor, Professor Tony Perkins spoke with pride at what the researchers were achieving and the public recognition of their work.

“Very few areas of important research have a body like CCQ to connect them and their research to their community, so to be recognised in this way is very important,” he said.

“Cancer research occupies some of the best minds in the world and we’re very proud to have some of those minds teaching and researching at Griffith University.”

Cancer Council Queensland championing local researchers

Professor Jeff Dun, CEO of CCQ, said the grant recognised the excellence of Griffith University’s world-class researchers.

“Over the past 10 years in my role as CEO, we have championed the work of our local researchers.” Professor Dunn said.

“CCQ is proud to support the tremendous work of Griffith University, which has earned its ranking in the top five per cent of universities in the world.

“The value of Griffith’s high-quality research cannot be underestimated.”

The Projects

Associate Professor Nigel McMillan received a grant for his study on the development of nanoparticle mucosal delivery systems for siRNA-based cancer therapies.

Associate Professor Helen Blanchard from the university’s Institute for Glycomics- was acknowledged for her design of specific chemical probes to target and inhibit galectin-3, a protein which can affect cell reproduction.

Professor Jiri Neuzil from the Molecular Basis of Disease research group received $200,000 to develop an efficient treatment for resistant breast cancers.

Dr Stephen Wood was awarded $100,000 to undertake further investigative trials of an enzyme he identified that could help prevent the spread of pancreatic cancer.