Researcher honoured for leadership in cancer proteomics

Monday, 23 June 2025

A researcher with the goal to realise individualised medicine for blood cancer has been recognised in Cure Cancer’s prestigious 2025 Researcher of the Year awards, securing third place nationally.

Two people standing in front of a row of flags, with one holding an award.
Dr Heather Murray and Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC

Dr Heather Murray, a postdoctoral researcher in the School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy and Hunter Medical Research Institute, was honoured for her leadership in cancer proteomics. Her research is at the forefront of developing precision therapies for acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), a particularly aggressive form of blood cancer. By identifying novel drug targets and advancing our understanding of AML biology, Dr Murray’s work is laying the groundwork for future clinical trials and offering new hope to patients facing this challenging disease.

The award was presented at a distinguished ceremony at Government House, Sydney, on 16 June, hosted by Cure Cancer’s Patron, Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC, Governor of New South Wales, and Mr Dennis Wilson. Dr Murray stood alongside fellow honourees A/Prof Shuai Li (University of Melbourne), who was named 2025 Researcher of the Year, and Dr Mohamed Saad (University of Adelaide), runner-up, in a celebration of innovation and impact in cancer research.

Now in its 58th year, Cure Cancer continues to champion bold, early-career researchers whose ideas are transforming the landscape of cancer treatment. The Researcher of the Year awards recognise alumni whose work exemplifies innovation, leadership, and real-world impact across all cancer types.

Dr Murray works in a collaborative research program that uses advanced mass spectrometry and systems biology to investigate how cancer cells respond to treatment at the molecular level. Her work focuses on identifying biomarkers that can predict treatment response and resistance—critical steps toward personalised medicine.

Dr Murray’s recognition is a testament to her dedication, scientific excellence, and the transformative impact of her research. Her journey—from an early interest in biomedical science to leading internationally recognised studies on AML—reflects a deep commitment to improving outcomes for cancer patients.

“It’s an incredible honour to receive this award. It reflects not just my work, but the collective effort of a talented team committed to precision medicine,” Dr Murray says.

You can learn more about her work and background here.

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