Recognising Excellence in Lung Cancer Research
The Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute (ONJCRI) celebrates the achievements of Dr Tracy Leong, a clinician–scientist and the head of the TRACKER Biobank, who has been honoured with the prestigious Women of Influence Award by Lung Foundation Australia. This accolade highlights her outstanding leadership, dedication to lung cancer research, and unwavering commitment to improving patient outcomes. Announced ahead of International Women’s Day, this recognition underscores the vital contributions of women driving transformative change in healthcare and research.
We are immensely proud to see Dr Leong’s work acknowledged at a national level. Reflecting on this honour, she shared, “I am humbled and immensely grateful for this recognition. This award is not just about me – it shines a light on the importance of lung cancer research and the incredible community working tirelessly to change the future of this disease.”
A Growing Urgency for Lung Cancer Research
Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, with one Australian losing their life to the disease every hour. Alarmingly, diagnoses among women, particularly younger women, are rising. One in three women diagnosed with lung cancer has never smoked, a reality that deeply resonates with Dr Leong.
“If they can get lung cancer, so can I,” she reflected, reinforcing the urgent need for continued research and awareness.
Driving Innovation Through TRACKER
Dr Leong’s commitment to making a difference extends beyond her role as a compassionate clinician. Recognising that meaningful change requires large-scale discoveries, she has championed translational research to bridge the gap between scientific breakthroughs and real-world patient impact.
One of the biggest hurdles in lung cancer research has been obtaining sufficient patient samples in a way that is both safe and effective. Recalling her own PhD journey, Dr Leong noted, “It took six years to generate enough data from just 11 patients. That experience made it clear how crucial it is to have better resources to accelerate research.”
Determined to address this challenge, she spearheaded the establishment of the TRACKER lung cancer biobank in 2022. TRACKER is Australia’s first national biobank dedicated solely to lung cancer, collecting tissue samples and data using a minimally invasive technique called bronchoscopy. This approach allows researchers to track patient samples from diagnosis through treatment, providing invaluable resources for groundbreaking discoveries. Today, TRACKER spans five states, with 11 recruitment sites and nine leading scientific institutes collaborating to drive innovation in lung cancer research.
“This award raises the visibility of lung cancer research,” Dr Leong emphasised. “It elevates the profile of the women and men who work relentlessly to transform lung cancer into a condition that people can live well with, rather than succumb to. It raises hope.”
A Champion for the Next Generation
Dr Leong has been a role model to many, providing guidance to PhD students, trainees, and early-career researchers. She expressed deep admiration for the women who have influenced her journey, particularly Prof. Lucy Morgan, and acknowledged the invaluable support of her female colleagues and collaborators.
She also paid tribute to the young minds she mentors, as well as her two daughters, who inspire her daily. “They remind me every day why I do this work,” she said. “Their passion, curiosity, and strength motivate me to keep pushing forward.”
Dr Leong’s impact on the field is profound, and this award is a testament to the transformative difference she continues to make.