Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute joins Children's Cancer CoLab as new research partner
Children's Cancer CoLab is proud to announce the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute (ONJCRI) as the newest partner in its consortium of leading Australian childhood cancer research institutions.
The addition of ONJCRI strengthens CoLab’s network, which brings together Victoria's premier research, clinical, and academic institutions. The CoLab's research partners now include the Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Monash Children's Hospital, Royal Children's Hospital, The University of Melbourne, Monash University and ONJCRI.
Prof Brendan Murphy AC, Board Chair of Children's Cancer CoLab, said ONJCRI would contribute significant expertise in childhood leukaemia – the most common form of childhood cancer.
"ONJCRI's dedicated oncology focus and proven track record in translational cancer research, as well as its world-class research platforms, including in gene editing and tumour microenvironment, create exciting opportunities for research partner collaboration - one of our core values."
Prof Marco Herold, CEO of ONJCRI, stated that joining the Children’s Cancer CoLab represented a pivotal opportunity to amplify the Institute’s impact in childhood cancer research.
"By collaborating with Victoria’s leading paediatric cancer institutions, we can accelerate the translation of our laboratory discoveries into clinical applications that directly benefit the youngest cancer patients. Children with cancer have unique treatment needs that often differ significantly from those of adults, and the effects of current therapies can be long-lasting, sometimes persisting throughout their lives. This is why it is critical that we develop treatments that are not only more effective, but also more tolerable and more accessible for all children with cancer.”
ONJCRI’s childhood cancer research program, led by Dr Teresa Sadras, focuses on understanding therapy resistance in childhood leukaemia and lymphoma through cutting-edge research methods in areas of molecular biology, immunology and clinical trials.
About Children's Cancer CoLab
Children's Cancer CoLab brings together leading research, clinical and academic institutions to accelerate childhood cancer research and innovation in Victoria and beyond. Supported by a $45 million commitment from the Victorian Government and the Children's Cancer Foundation, the CoLab’s vision is to create a future where every child with cancer can survive and thrive.
About the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute
ONJCRI is a global leader in advancing cancer research, driven by the singular goal of improving patient outcomes. The Institute drives progress by discovering and developing diagnostics and therapeutics that are more effective, tolerable, and accessible.
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